Ocean Acidification

In this assignment you will learn how increased CO₂ levels and climate change affect the ocean, and you will work through an investigation to see the impacts of ocean acidification on shells.

Ms. Pedersen, formerly a biologist and employee of Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, will lead this lesson.

Part 1: Ocean Acidification Overview

Ms. Pedersen will lead an overview of Ocean Acidification.

Also, view the Ocean Acidification Fact Sheet.

Part 2: Ocean Acidification Lab

Write and answer the following in your journal.

Question: How do acidic conditions affect calcium carbonate (the material in the shells of marine organisms)?

Hypothesis: If we put calcium carbonate in plain water (pH 7) and vinegar water (pH~4), then ________________________, because ___________________.

Materials:

• • 2 small plastic cups

  • 50 mL graduated cylinder

  • vinegar

  • water

  • 2 Tums antacid tablets (calcium carbonate)

  • Clock/timer

  • Pencil

Procedure:

• 1. Measure 15 mL of plain water and pour it into a plastic cup.

  2. Measure 50 mL of vinegar in graduated cylinder and keep this at your desk.

  3. Pour approximately 15mL of vinegar into the empty plastic cup.

  4. Place one calcium carbonate tablet in each cup.

  5. Observe for 1 minute.

  6. Record your data in your data table.

  7. Experiment adding varying amounts of vinegar to the cup with water.

  8. Record your results.

Data:

Create a data table like the following one in your journal, and fill it in.

Solution ______________| What happened to the Calcium Carbonate ?

Vinegar ______________|

Water ______________|

Water with added Vinegar I___________________________

Conclusion:

Write a conclusion based on your data.