24 - Ocean Acidification

Source : IPCC 24 Ocean acidification according to RCP scenarios (pH) Ocean Acidification
Set 2 www.climatefresk.org 24 When CO 2 dissolves in the ocean, it turns into acid ions (H 2 CO 3 then HCO 3 - ). This makes the oceans more acidic and the pH drops.

1
Cause

Carbon Sinks

Carbon Sinks

The word "Ocean" is written on both sides.

1
Consequence

Calcification difficulties

Ocean Acidification


3
Wrong causes

CO2 Emissions

CO2 Emissions

Why not but rather link Card 12 (Carbon sinks) to card 24. It is meant for it.
Concentration of CO2 (ppm)

Concentration of CO2 (ppm)

Players often identify CO2 concentration as a cause for ocean acidification. But it is more logical to link back to carbon sinks.
Rising Water Temperature

Rising Water Temperature

The increase of water temperature is not linked to ocean acidification, at least for the time being. In the long term (over several centuries), as it heats up, the water will lose its capacity to dissolve atmospheric CO2 and will become less efficient as a carbon sink. So the increase in water temperature will inhibit, to some extent, ocean acidification.
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