About half of the excess CO₂ released into the atmosphere is dissolved into the oceans.What effect(s) does this added CO₂ have on the oceans? A) It has little or no effect. B) It raises temperature, but only slightly. C) It lowers pH. D) It raises both temperature and pH. E) It immediately sinks and is stored in the sediments.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When CO₂ dissolves in seawater, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the ocean. This process is known as ocean acidification and can have harmful effects on marine organisms, particularly those that rely on calcium carbonate to form their shells or skeletons.

About Half of the Excess CO2 Released into the Atmosphere

About Half of the Excess CO₂ Released into the Atmosphere