How would a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions affect the
oceans? Select the two correct
options:
1. Acidification of the oceans: A reduction in carbon dioxide emissions would lead to a decrease in the amount of carbon dioxide being absorbed by the oceans. This would slow down the process of ocean acidification, which occurs when carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater and forms carbonic acid. Ocean acidification has detrimental effects on marine life, particularly on calcium carbonate-based organisms like coral reefs, shellfish, and some plankton.
2. Lessening of global warming: Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. A reduction in carbon dioxide emissions would help slow down global warming, which in turn would have positive effects on the oceans. It would reduce the rate of polar ice melting, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events, which can impact marine ecosystems and coastal communities.