Ocean Acidification by Tracy Nguyen [Student FVHS]

Experiment

mnnguyen116 — 2015-03-30 17:24:48 UTC

A sea butterfly shell (pteropod) is placed in seawater with increased acidity. As shown, the shell is slowing disintegrating periodically due to the high acidity. Marine organisms (zoology) will decline in growth rate and population.

For further details:

http://ocean.si.edu/ocean-acidification

Ocean Acidification vs Other Environmental Issues

ttnguyen284 — 2015-03-30 17:26:44 UTC

Ocean acidification is the decrease in the ocean's pH level caused by the great amount of carbon dioxide released into different bodies of water. Carbon dioxide is a heat-trapping gas that is produced by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation (climate change). As the ocean's acidity increases, the loss of biodiversity increases. Marine organisms that build shells and skeletons decline from the ocean's acidity, affecting the food web. With these marine species at the base of the food web, large fish who depend on smaller organisms are affected.

To understand more, visit:

http://www.globalissues.org/article/172/climate-change-affects-biodiversity

Trend

mnnguyen116 — 2015-03-30 17:30:24 UTC

This trend shows how carbon dioxide escalating in the atmosphere as the pH level is decreasing (acidity increasing).

For more information: http://ocean.si.edu/ocean-acidification

Why is Ocean Acidification a Top Environmental Issue?

ttnguyen284 — 2015-03-31 04:07:00 UTC

Ocean acidification occurs when the pH level of ocean water decreases. This is caused by the amount of carbon dioxide being released in the air. 30%-40% of carbon dioxide released by humans dissolves into the ocean. When CO2 is dissolves into the ocean, carbonic acid is formed. Oceans absorb about a third of the carbon dioxide that is created by human emissions (22 million tons a day!!!). Marine ecosystem are greatly affected by the high acidity. Researchers found an ongoing trend that proves an increase in acidity (25%) over the past two centuries. Not only is ocean acidification effecting marine species, it will soon effect us as well. Some people rely on seafood such as lobsters, shrimp, clams, etc. as a source of protein for their diet. If the ocean continues to acidify, most of the shelled creatures will die and leave humans with a very little supply of food, causing prices to rise up as well.

For extended information:

http://www.pmel.noaa.gov/co2/story/Ocean+Acidification

Demystifying Ocean Acidification & Biodiversity Impacts | California Academy of Sciences

ttnguyen284 — 2015-03-31 04:21:42 UTC

(Extended information)

How Can We Fix This?

tweeveelee — 2015-04-01 00:41:45 UTC

Since ocean acidification occurs when there is an excessive amount of carbon dioxide in the ocean water, that causes the ocean pH to decrease, we can solve this problem by using products that release less to no carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is produced when society burns fossil fuel. Airplanes, car gas, coal products, house furnaces, light generators, and products made from oil all benefit from fossil fuels. There are various ways to reduce the usage of carbon dioxide by applying alternative energy. Instead of impure gasoline for cars and house furnaces, we can substitute with natural gas. Cars can even be replaced by bikes! Electricity can be generated by solar panels or windmills rather than fossil fuels.

Controversial Against Ocean Acidification

tweeveelee — 2015-04-01 01:04:56 UTC

According to the article, "The Ocean Is Not Getting Acidified" by Willis Eschenbach, carbon dioxide dissolved with ocean water does not make it more acidic, but neutral. Since the ocean's pH level is approximately 8.0-8.5 pH (basic), the carbon dioxide (acidic), will create a neutral solution. It is argued that as the levels of acid increase in the ocean, marine organisms with protective shells/skeletons will have the ability to preserve themselves from severe basic solutions and acidic solutions.

Acid Test: Trailer

ttnguyen284 — 2015-04-01 23:30:47 UTC

Acid Test: The Global Challenge of Ocean Acidification

ttnguyen284 — 2015-04-02 03:36:19 UTC

(Extended information)

Rates of Ocean Acidification Every 10 Years Since 1800 Projected Through 2100

ttnguyen284 — 2015-04-02 03:41:33 UTC

The lower the pH value, the more acidic the environment.

Ocean Acidification by the Alliance for Climate Education

ttnguyen284 — 2015-04-02 03:55:24 UTC

Ecological Footprint

mnnguyen116 — 2015-04-02 05:10:04 UTC