In addition to the famous impacts of atmospheric carbon on global warming, there is an equally worrisome effect of carbon dioxide on the oceans: ocean acidification (or OA for short). Here at I2SEA we have a series of resources about OA, including Our Acidifying Ocean, which is an introductory activity and virtual lab (note: now mobile compatible!).
A student suggested that we start a conversation topic about OA, and here it is! Have you heard about Ocean Acidification? If so, are you worried about it? How do you think we can best raise awareness about it among your fellow students and the general public? Have you seen particularly good links or films about OA that you would like to share? What are you doing to address the problem?
Ocean Acidification >
Ocean Acidification
Ocean Acidification shows the continuous decrease in the pH of the earths oceans. The uprising of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is what causes this decrease. The ocean absorbs about 1/3 of the CO2 that goes into the atmosphere, meaning that they both rise and fall. When the CO2 levels rise in the ocean a chemical reaction is created which can affect the lives of sea animals and plants.