Question

The amount of CO$_2$ that can be absorbed ............... when the temperature of seawater decreases.

• A. Remains the same
• B. Increases
• C. Decreases
• D. Can either increase or decrease

Hint:

Cold oceans are major CO$_2$ sinks because gas solubility increases as temperature decreases.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall gas solubility principle.
- Solubility of gases in liquids generally decreases with rising temperature. - Conversely, at lower temperatures, gases are more soluble.
Step 2: Apply to seawater.
- At lower seawater temperature, the absorption of CO$_2$ increases. - This is why colder oceans (polar regions) absorb more CO$_2$ than warm tropical waters. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(B) Increases}} \]