Acidification
Definition and meaning of Acidification in chemistry.
Acidification is the process by which a substance or system becomes more acidic through an increase in hydrogen ion (H+) concentration and a decrease in pH. This occurs when acids are added to a system or bases are removed, shifting the chemical equilibrium toward lower pH values.
In more detail
Acidification can result from natural processes or human activity. For example, atmospheric carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid, naturally acidifying rainwater and aquatic systems. Ocean acidification, a major environmental concern, occurs when the ocean absorbs excess atmospheric CO2, forming carbonic acid and lowering the pH. This process has cascading effects on marine ecosystems, making it harder for organisms like corals and mollusks to build calcium carbonate shells and skeletons.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | H2CO3 (carbonic acid) |
| pH effect | Decreases |
| Key ion | H+ (hydrogen ion) |
When seawater absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide, carbonic acid (H2CO3) forms, lowering the ocean's pH from 8.2 to 8.1 over recent decades, approximately a 26% increase in hydrogen ion concentration that threatens marine organisms dependent on carbonate ions.
Frequently asked questions
What causes acidification?
Acidification results from adding acids to a system, removing bases, or chemical reactions that increase H+ concentration and lower pH.
Why is ocean acidification dangerous?
Lower pH makes it harder for marine organisms to extract carbonate ions from seawater, threatening shells, skeletons, and entire marine food webs.