What Is Ocean Acidification — Reading Comprehension

Have you ever wondered what happens to the carbon dioxide we release into the air? A lot of it goes into our oceans! Ocean acidification is a big environmental problem, closely linked to climate change and rising global temperatures. It's happening because our oceans are absorbing more and more carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, primarily due to human activities like burning fossil fuels.

When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it causes a chemical reaction. This reaction makes the seawater more acidic, which means its pH level goes down. Think of pH as a scale that tells us how acidic or basic a liquid is. A lower pH means more acidity. While the ocean is still basic, it's becoming less basic, or more acidic, than it used to be. This change might seem small, but it has huge effects on marine life.

One of the biggest concerns is how ocean acidification affects creatures that build shells and skeletons, like oysters, clams, and especially coral reefs. These animals use something called calcium carbonate to build their hard parts. As the ocean becomes more acidic, there's less calcium carbonate available for them to use. It's like trying to build a house when you don't have enough bricks! This makes it harder for them to grow, and existing shells can even start to dissolve.

Coral reefs are particularly vulnerable. They are home to a quarter of all marine species and are vital for ocean health and biodiversity. When corals struggle due to acidification, it can lead to coral bleaching, where they turn white and can eventually die. This impacts all the fish and other animals that depend on the reefs for food and shelter.

Understanding ocean acidification is key to protecting our valuable marine ecosystems. By reducing the amount of carbon dioxide we release into the atmosphere, we can help slow down this process and ensure a healthier future for our oceans and the amazing creatures that live in them. This is a critical aspect of addressing global warming and maintaining Earth's delicate balance.

Interesting Fact: Scientists estimate that the oceans have absorbed about one-third of all human-produced carbon dioxide since the Industrial Revolution.

What causes ocean acidification?

What do shelled creatures use?

What does a lower pH indicate?

Ocean acidification primarily results from human activities like burning fossil fuels. True or False?

How does acidification affect shells?

What is coral bleaching?

Why are coral reefs important?

What can help slow acidification?

Which word means "a scale telling acidity"?

How might ocean acidification affect a local seafood restaurant that serves oysters?