Q50.
The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this phenomenon a cause of concern: 1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected. 2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be adversely affected. 3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected. 4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be adversely affected. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer
D
Explanation
Ocean acidification (caused by absorption of excess CO2) is a concern for all four reasons: (1) Calcareous phytoplankton (with calcium carbonate shells) will be adversely affected — acidic water dissolves carbonate shells. (2) Coral reefs (also calcium carbonate based) will be adversely affected — coral bleaching and dissolution. (3) Animals with phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected as their food source collapses. (4) Phytoplankton releases DMS (dimethylsulphide) which influences cloud formation — loss of phytoplankton affects cloud seeding. All four are legitimate concerns.