Oceanic Properties

There are some other aspects that need to be examined regarding the imbalances in the current carbon cycle. First let's look at the effects of the ocean gaining 2 gigatonnes (1 gigatonne = 1x1012 kilograms) of carbon annually. This process cannot go on indefinitely. There is a saturation point where the oceans will no longer be a reservoir for excess carbon from the atmosphere. As the carbon dioxide levels get closer to this saturation point, the oceans will begin absorbing atmospheric carbon at a slower rate. This could exacerbate the carbon dioxide problems in our atmosphere and accelerate global climate change.

A second problem associated with increased dissolved carbon dioxide in the ocean is its acidity. When carbon dioxide dissolves in water some of it combines with water to produce H+ and HCO3-. This lowers the pH, which could have a harmful effect on marine life.

Lastly, if the ocean surface waters warm up as a result of global warming, the ocean's capacity for dissolved carbon dioxide decreases and it would then give off carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. This would accelerate global climate change.

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