Question

How would acidification of seawater affect marine organisms?
a. Acidification would decrease dissolved carbonate concentrations and hinder growth of corals and shell-building animals.
b. Acidification would increase dissolved bicarbonate concentrations, and cause increased calcification of corals and shellfish.
c. Acidification would decrease dissolved carbonate concentrations and promote faster growth of corals and shell-building animals.
c. Acidification would increase dissolved carbonate concentrations and promote faster growth of corals and shell-building animals.
d. Acidification would increase dissolved carbonate concentrations and hinder growth of corals and shell-building animals.

Answer 1

Answer:

a. Acidification would decrease dissolved carbonate concentrations and hinder growth of corals and shell-building animals.

Explanation:

Atmospheric carbon dioxide is the main cause for ocean acidification. During ocean acidification the amount of free H⁺ will increase. Then this free ions react with the available carbonate ions. It is more difficult for organisms to obtain the necessary carbonate hence its growth is affected.