Neutralization reactions are found in many other places in addition to the human

Question

Neutralization reactions are found in many other places in addition to the human stomach. The oceans of the earth tend to be slightly basic due to the presence of carbonates (in particular calcium carbonate). Fresh water, like rain water, tends to be slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide producing carbonic acid. In areas of severe air pollution, the addition of sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides to the water will make it even more acidic. How would this affect the oceans? Will this produce any effects in the ocean that should be of a concern to us? Scientists have proposed that a way to reduce global warming caused by carbon dioxide emissions is to find a way to get the ocean to absorb more of the carbon dioxide to remove it from the atmosphere. What do you think of this idea?

Explanation / Answer

Q1.

lowering pH has plenty of problems such as:

- reduction of solubility of other gases such as oxygen, which is required for many animals in sea (i.e. fish)

- increases solubility of other salts, so mineral concentration increases (affects animal + plant life)

Q2

Yes, since this kills fishes, which we consume... therefore this is of concern for humanity

Q3

Not recomended

since

H2O + CO3 --> H2CO3

which is acidic

so

H2CO3 <--> HCO3- + H+ (acidic)

and

HCO3- + H+ <--> CO3-2 + H+

much acidic levels will help humanity in atmosphere but NOT in oceans

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