Anthropogenic Influences and Implications of the Carbon Cycle

In the previous lesson, we explored the carbon cycle, setting aside the anthropogenic component. Now, let's delve deeper and understand how increased carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels drive significant environmental changes, specifically through ocean acidification and global warming.

Increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels = increase in (greenhouse effect + global warming + ocean acidification)

Use the interactive presentation below to learn more about each of these:

A Bit More About Ocean Acidification... Because this is an Oceanography Course, after all!

Ocean acidification is caused by increased CO₂ in seawater, which increases the ocean's acidity. Even a tiny shift in pH levels can significantly impact the ocean's finely balanced chemistry. The ocean's surface pH has dropped by 30% since the Industrial Revolution, and this change has dire consequences for marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate for their skeletal structures. Coral reefs, the rainforests of the sea, are particularly threatened by ocean acidification, which affects not only individual organisms but also the entire marine ecosystem. Changes in the ocean's chemistry can also affect fish behavior and physiology, potentially affecting marine food webs and fisheries. Addressing ocean acidification requires a comprehensive approach that not only tackles CO₂ emissions but also looks at preserving and restoring the health of our ocean ecosystems.

The video below gives a further explanation of ocean acidification.

What's The point_science (1)

This lesson explored the consequences of rising CO₂ levels, particularly focusing on the enhanced greenhouse effect, which leads to higher global temperatures and other environmental problems. We also delved into ocean acidification, a significant outcome of increased atmospheric CO₂, affecting marine life and ecosystems. This lesson highlighted the interconnection between these environmental changes and the critical role of CO₂ in altering our planet's natural systems.

UP NEXT: Nutrient Cycling

[CC BY-NC-SA 4.0] UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED | IMAGES: LICENSED AND USED ACCORDING TO TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION - INTENDED ONLY FOR USE WITHIN THE LESSON. NOAA video used with permission from site. Shuttertock image 1769196107