Ocean Acidification

What is one of the main greenhouse gases?

Carbon dioxide, CO2

How does increased CO2 affect ocean acidity

Produces more H2CO3(aq), which produces more HCO3-(aq), which produces more H+(aq), and thus consumes more CaCO3(s)

Define the term “carbon sink”. How is the ocean a carbon sink?

• Chemical equilibrium exists between atmospheric gases and their presence in seawater

• Moderates concentration of gases, especially rising levels of human induced CO2

What effects does ocean acidification have on marine animals?

• With a lower [CO3^2-], they become stressed and cannot produce strong enough CaCO3 shells

• The increased [H+] can dissolve CaCO3 present in shells and exoskeletons of marine animals

• Weaker coral reefs will be less able to protect coastlines from waves, and there would be less habitats for fish 

What is the UNFCCC

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

What does the UNFCCC aim to achieve?

To stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system