Ocean Buffer Chemistry

Use this video micro-lecture explains carbonate buffering in the ocean. It also briefly discusses the change in the chemical composition of the ocean caused by a higher concentration of dissolved CO2, and the resulting effect on ocean biota.
Further, use the video micro-lecture to illustrate Le Chatelier’s Principle—explain how increased CO2 concentration in seawater sequesters more carbonate (CO32−) ions to keep the system in equilibrium.
In conclusion, explain how ocean biota may be affected in the absence of freely available carbonate (CO32−) ions.

Watch this micro-lecture about how oceans absorb atmospheric CO2 and the increase of acidity of sea water.
Explore how high levels of atmospheric CO2 could result in an excess of free hydrogen (H+) ions, thus potentially changing the pH values of seawater (acidification).

Le Chatelier’s Principle states that, When any system at equilibrium for a long period of time is subjected to change in concentration, temperature, volume, or pressure, the system changes to a new equilibrium and this change partly counteracts the applied change.
Explore how Le Chatelier’s Principle is applicable here — how increased CO2 concentration in seawater sequesters more carbonate (CO32−) ions to keep the system in equilibrium.
Investigate how ocean biota may be affected in the absence of freely available carbonate (CO32−) ions.

Henry Louis Le Chatelier (1850-1936, France)

Prof. David Archer, University of Chicago; Wikipedia

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