Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth's oceans, primarily caused by the uptake of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process has significant implications for marine life and human communities dependent on these ecosystems.
When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which subsequently releases hydrogen ions. This increase in hydrogen ions raises the acidity of the ocean, resulting in a lower pH.
The rising acidity poses challenges for marine organisms, especially corals and shellfish, which struggle to build and maintain their shells and skeletons. This disruption can lead to significant ecological imbalances, affecting food chains and fisheries.
Ocean acidification threatens a wide range of marine life, from tiny plankton to large fish. Coral reefs, essential for numerous species, are particularly vulnerable. Their decline can lead to cascading effects on marine biodiversity and fisheries.
Disruptions in marine ecosystems due to ocean acidification may negatively impact global food security. Millions rely on seafood as a primary protein source, making this issue critical.
The oceans play a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing CO2 and heat from the atmosphere. Ocean acidification can impair their capacity to perform this function, potentially worsening climate change effects.
India, with its extensive coastline, has millions of people who depend on the ocean for their livelihoods. Ocean acidification directly threatens fishing communities and the seafood industry.
For many Indians, fish is a crucial protein source. Ocean acidification could lead to reduced fish stocks, impacting food availability and affordability.
India's coral reefs, particularly those in the Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, are vital for tourism and marine biodiversity. Ocean acidification can cause coral bleaching, leading to ecological degradation and affecting associated industries.
Ocean acidification may exacerbate climate change impacts in India, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events, further threatening vulnerable communities.
Q1. What is the current state of ocean acidification?
Answer: The world's oceans are rapidly approaching critical acidification levels, threatening marine life and ecosystems.
Q2. What is causing ocean acidification?
Answer: Human-caused CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels are the primary drivers of ocean acidification.
Q3. What can be done to address ocean acidification?
Answer: Reducing CO2 emissions is crucial. Additional measures include protecting coastal habitats, promoting sustainable fishing, and developing carbon capture solutions.
Q4. How does ocean acidification affect coral reefs?
Answer: Ocean acidification leads to coral bleaching and death, which disrupts marine ecosystems and affects tourism and biodiversity.
Q5. What role do oceans play in climate regulation?
Answer: Oceans absorb CO2 and heat, helping to regulate the Earth’s climate. Ocean acidification impairs this vital function.
Question 1: What primarily causes ocean acidification?
A) Increased salinity levels
B) Human-caused CO2 emissions
C) Overfishing practices
D) Industrial waste disposal
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which marine organisms are most affected by ocean acidification?
A) Dolphins and whales
B) Sea turtles
C) Corals and shellfish
D) Seaweeds
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: How does ocean acidification impact global food security?
A) By increasing fish populations
B) By reducing seafood availability
C) By enhancing marine biodiversity
D) By improving fish farming methods
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is a significant consequence of coral bleaching?
A) Increased biodiversity
B) Habitat loss for marine species
C) Improved fish stocks
D) Enhanced tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: In which regions of India are coral reefs particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification?
A) Eastern coast
B) Western Ghats
C) Lakshadweep and Andaman Islands
D) Himalayan region
Correct Answer: C
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