Question

the figure shows the relationship between changes in ocean carbon dioxide levels (measured in the left column as a partial pressure - a common way of measuring the amount of a gas) and acidity (measured as ph in the right column). the data come from two observation stations in the north atlantic ocean (canary islands and bermuda) and one in the pacific (hawaii). the up - and - down pattern shows the influence of seasonal variations.
the graphs seen here provide information on ocean chemistry, including dissolved carbon dioxide and ph. what is the relationship between dissolved co₂ and ph?
a. there is a direct relationship, as the dissolved co₂ increases, the ph increases.
b. there is a direct relationship, as the dissolved co₂ decreases, the ph decreases.
c. there is an inverse relationship, as the dissolved co₂ increases, the ph decreases.
d. there is no direct relationship between the dissolved co₂ increases, the ph increases.

Explanation:

To determine the relationship, we analyze the graphs: dissolved CO₂ (left column) and pH (right column) over time. As dissolved CO₂ increases (e.g., upward trends in left graphs), pH decreases (downward trends in right graphs, since lower pH means more acidity). This is an inverse relationship (one increases, the other decreases). Option A claims direct (both increase) – incorrect. Option B claims direct (CO₂ decreases, pH decreases) – incorrect. Option D claims no relationship – incorrect. Option C states inverse: as CO₂ increases, pH decreases – matches the trend.

Answer:

C. There is an inverse relationship, as the dissolved CO increases, the pH decreases.