Question

The acid involved in ocean acidification is

• A. Carbonic acid
• B. Sulphuric acid
• C. Phosphoric acid
• D. Nitric acid

Hint:

Ocean acidification is primarily driven by the absorption of CO$_2$, which forms carbonic acid in seawater. Understanding this process is key to addressing the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to an increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere. This CO₂ dissolves in seawater and reacts with water molecules to form carbonic acid, which then dissociates into hydrogen ions (H⁺) and bicarbonate ions (HCO₃^-).

Step 2: The chemical reaction responsible for ocean acidification
The chemical equation that describes the formation of carbonic acid in seawater is:
CO2 + H2O → H2CO3 → H+ + HCO3-
This increase in hydrogen ion concentration (H⁺) leads to a decrease in pH, causing ocean water to become more acidic.

Step 3: Analyze the options

Option (1): Carbonic acid
This is the correct answer because carbonic acid is formed when CO₂ dissolves in water, and it plays a major role in ocean acidification. It is the primary acid involved in this process.

Option (2): Sulphuric acid
Sulphuric acid is not involved in ocean acidification. It is typically formed from sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions but does not play a significant role in the acidification of oceans.

Option (3): Phosphoric acid
Phosphoric acid is not involved in ocean acidification. It is used in fertilizers and industrial processes but does not affect the ocean's pH in the same way as carbonic acid.

Option (4): Nitric acid
Nitric acid is also not involved in ocean acidification. While it can contribute to acid rain, its role in ocean acidification is minimal compared to carbonic acid.