Ocean Acidification
Decrease in ocean pH due to increased carbon dioxide absorption, reducing calcification rates in marine organisms.
Formula
CO₂ + H₂O → H₂CO₃ → H⁺ + HCO₃⁻
Real World
Pacific oyster hatcheries in Oregon, USA experienced massive larval die-offs from 2005 onwards because acidified upwelling waters dissolved the thin shells of juvenile oysters before they could grow.
Exam Focus
State the chemical mechanism (CO₂ forming carbonic acid) and name a specific affected organism group — examiners reward precise examples over vague references.
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