P. Ocean Acidification
Ocean Acidification
Oceans serve as significant reservoirs for carbon dioxide (CO2), absorbing a substantial portion (approximately one-third) of anthropogenically generated emissions, thus acting as a buffering mechanism against climate change. However, this absorption process contributes to a phenomenon known as ocean acidification, which denotes alterations in oceanic chemistry.
Ocean acidification is characterized by a reduction in ocean pH, attributable to an augmented concentration of hydrogen ions resulting from the absorption of carbon compounds from the atmosphere.
Chemical Reaction involved in ocean acidification
With the increasing uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide by the ocean, the concentration of hydrogen ions rises. Concurrently, the concentration of carbonate ions decreases, leading to a decline in the pH of the oceans. Consequently, the oceans undergo a shift toward reduced alkalinity. This process, recognized as ocean acidification, raises concerns due to its potential adverse impacts on marine ecosystems and organisms.