Question

ocean acidification is of considerable concern to environmental scientists because it lowers ocean biodiversity significantly. what causes ocean acidification?

a. carbon dioxide interacts with ocean water to form carbonic acid, which lowers ocean ph.

b. nitrous oxide interacts with ocean water to form nitric acid, which increases ocean ph.

c. decaying organic matter in the ocean releases acetic acid, which lowers the oceanic ph.

d. sulfur dioxide interacts with atmospheric water vapor to form sulfuric acid which increases the ph of aquatic ecosystems.

Explanation:

To determine the cause of ocean acidification, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere dissolves in ocean water, reacting to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). This increases the concentration of H⁺ ions, lowering the ocean's pH (making it more acidic). This matches the known process of ocean acidification.
• Option B: Nitrous oxide forming nitric acid would make the ocean more acidic (lower pH), but the option claims it increases pH, which is incorrect. Also, nitrous oxide is not the primary cause of ocean acidification.
• Option C: Decaying organic matter releasing acetic acid is not the main cause of widespread ocean acidification; the primary driver is atmospheric CO₂.
• Option D: Sulfur dioxide forming sulfuric acid (from atmospheric water vapor) affects acid rain and freshwater ecosystems, not ocean acidification. Also, sulfuric acid would lower pH, but the option says it increases pH, which is wrong.

Answer:

A. Carbon dioxide interacts with ocean water to form carbonic acid, which lowers ocean pH