A. Add to the formula in Interactive Question 3.5 to show how increasing (CO2) dissolving in water leads
to a lower pH.
b. Use this formula to explain how a lower pH would
affect the [CO32-) in the ocean.
HCO3 SCO32- + H+
c. Assuming a fairly constant (Ca2+] in the ocean, how
would a change in (CO32-) affect the calcification
rate--the production of calcium carbonate
(CaCO3)-by the coral in a reef ecosystem?

Answers and Explanation:

a.)

Lower pH of a substance is indicative of increased acidity. By dissolving carbon dioxide to release which easily reacts  with water to form carbonic acid, thereby increasing water acidity.

b.)

The increased acidity of the ocean makes the water naturally corrosive and soft which implies reduced carbonate levels in the ocean.

c.)

Calcification occurs through formation of calcium carbonate by reaction of calcium with carbon dioxide, or even more easily Ca2+ and . This implies that increased calcium levels in the ocean increases rate of calcification and reduced ions.

option c is the correct answer.