How is ocean acidification possibly linked to increased anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂)?
A) Oceans may absorb up to 50% of rising concentrations of rising carbon. When dissolved CO₂ mixes with saltwater, carbonic acid forms (H₂CO₃).
B) Atmospheric CO₂ combines with atmospheric moisture forming a light carbonic acid forms (H₂CO₃), that is precipitated over the world's oceans.
C) Increased photosynthetic activity in phytoplankton resulting from increased atmospheric CO₂ concentrations results in acidification due to a complex chemical reaction during plant decay.
D) Thermohaline circulation exchanges carbon between surface dissolved organic carbon and deep layers of dissolved inorganic carbon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oceans absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which increases the acidity of the ocean, a phenomenon known as ocean acidification.

How Is Ocean Acidification Possibly Linked to Increased Anthropogenic Emissions