The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this phenomenon a cause of concern?

1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected.

2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be adversely affected.

3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected.

4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be adversely affected.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 only

Key Points

Acidification of Oceans-

• Ocean Acidification refers to a decline in ocean PH due to excess absorption of carbon oxide.
• An estimated 30-40% of the carbon dioxide from human activity released into the atmosphere dissolves into oceans, lakes and rivers.

Important Points

Impacts of Ocean Acidification-

• The increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide led to an increase in carbonic acid and a decrease in carbonate ions.
• The decrease in the number of carbonate ions available makes it more difficult for marine calcifying organisms, such as coral. Hence statement 2 is correct.
• The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected. Hence statement 3 is correct.
• The majority of atmosphere sulphur is emitted from the ocean in form of dimethylsulfide produced by phytoplankton.
• While ocean acidification is a serious issue for marine ecosystems, it is not directly related to cloud seeding or cloud formation. Cloud formation is more influenced by atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and aerosols in the atmosphere, rather than the pH levels of ocean water. Hence statement 4 is incorrect.