The Role of Oceans in the Carbon Cycle
The oceans play a crucial role in the carbon cycle, which is the continuous exchange of carbon between the atmosphere, land, and oceans. They absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it in various forms, making them a significant carbon sink.
1. Carbon Absorption:
The oceans absorb about 25% of the CO2 emitted into the atmosphere from human activities. This CO2 dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid.
2. Biological Pump:
Marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, absorb CO2 for photosynthesis. When these organisms die, their organic matter sinks to the deep ocean. This process, known as the biological pump, removes CO2 from the surface waters.
3. Sedimentation:
Some dissolved inorganic carbon in seawater precipitates as calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This forms marine sediments, which can store vast amounts of CO2 over long time scales.
4. Chemical Buffering:
The oceans act as a chemical buffer for CO2. When atmospheric CO2 levels increase, the oceans absorb more CO2, maintaining a balance in the Earth's atmosphere.
Related Questions:
- How much CO2 do oceans absorb annually?
- What is the biological pump?
- How does sedimentation contribute to the carbon cycle?
- What is an important chemical property of oceans in the carbon cycle?
- What are the long-term implications of increased ocean acidity?
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