Question

differentiate between some of the causes and effects of increasing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.
cause of ocean acidification effects of ocean acidification
combustion of coal in power plants. clearing rainforests of trees. decreasing the ph of the oceans. pollution (damaging seagrass beds) suppression of animal immune systems damage to reef - building corals

Explanation:

• Causes of ocean acidification:
• Combustion of coal in power plants: Burning coal releases carbon dioxide. When this carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, contributing to ocean acidification.
• Clearing rainforests of trees: Trees absorb carbon dioxide. When rainforests are cleared, there are fewer trees to absorb carbon dioxide. This excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere then has a higher chance of dissolving in the ocean, leading to acidification.
• Effects of ocean acidification:
• Pollution (damaging seabirds' beaks): Ocean acidification can disrupt the food chain. For example, it can affect the availability of prey for seabirds. Also, changes in the ocean chemistry can lead to the release of pollutants in a more harmful form, which can damage seabirds' beaks.
• Suppression of animal immune systems: Acidic ocean conditions can stress marine animals. This stress can suppress their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to diseases.
• Damage to reef - building corals: Corals build their skeletons from calcium carbonate. In more acidic waters, the availability of carbonate ions (which are needed for coral skeleton formation) decreases. This makes it difficult for reef - building corals to grow and maintain their structures.

Answer:

• Causes:
• Combustion of coal in power plants.
• Clearing rainforests of trees.
• Effects:
• Pollution (damaging seabirds' beaks).
• Suppression of animal immune systems.
• Damage to reef - building corals.