the atmospheric concentration of co2 in the preindustrial atmosphere was 280 ppm. Later this century, we may reach double that level. by how much will the pH range of rain in remote regions of the world change as a result of that increase?
To estimate the change in pH range of rain in remote regions of the world due to the increase in atmospheric CO2, we need to understand the connection between CO2 levels, rainfall, and pH.
Here's how you can calculate it:
1. Understand the relationship: Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to a phenomenon known as ocean acidification. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid (H2CO3), which lowers the pH value of the water.
2. Determine the pH range change: The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with values below 7 being acidic, 7 being neutral, and above 7 being alkaline. The pH of rain is influenced by various factors, including atmospheric CO2 levels.
3. Consider the CO2 concentration increase: Given that the preindustrial atmospheric CO2 concentration was 280 parts per million (ppm), and we may reach double that level later this century, it means the atmospheric CO2 concentration would be around 560 ppm.
4. Estimate the change in pH range: The exact change in pH range due to a doubling of CO2 concentration can be complex and depends on many factors. However, a commonly used approximation is the "1 for 20" rule. According to this rule, a doubling of CO2 concentration decreases the pH of seawater by 0.1 (approximately) - equivalent to a 10% increase in acidity.
5. Apply the approximation: Assuming the same rule can be applied to rain, you can estimate that a doubling of atmospheric CO2 concentration (from 280 to 560 ppm) may decrease the pH range of rain in remote regions by approximately 10%.
Please note that this estimation is based on the "1 for 20" rule and assumes that rain pH responds similarly to seawater. However, it's important to consider that several other factors can influence rain pH, such as local variations due to factors like pollution, volcanic activity, or other natural sources.
It's always best to consult scientific research or models specifically designed for predicting changes in rain pH to get a more accurate estimation.