Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 19: Problem 9

How can a shift in environmental \(\mathrm{pH}\) affect aquatic ecosystems? What protects these ecosystems in some regions?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A shift in environmental pH can significantly affect aquatic ecosystems by disrupting the balance of life, causing harm to aquatic organisms or promoting excessive growth of certain life forms like algae. Some regions, primarily those rich in limestone, have a natural buffering capacity that helps in maintaining a stable pH and thereby offers protection to the aquatic ecosystem.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding pH

pH is a scale that measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. In environmental science, this is crucial as it can directly affect an ecosystem's biodiversity and health. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where solutions with a pH less than 7 are acidic, those with a pH greater than 7 are basic, and a pH of 7 is neutral.
02

pH impact on Aquatic ecosystems

A shift in environmental pH can have dramatic effects on aquatic ecosystems. The most favorable pH for most aquatic life is between 6.5 and 9. Changes outside this range can cause harmful effects. If the pH is too low (acidic), it can leach heavy metals such as lead and copper from sediments and these toxic metals can harm aquatic life. Similarly, a high pH can cause a bloom of algae which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.
03

Protection Mechanisms

Certain regions, mainly ones rich in limestone, are more capable of buffering against pH changes. Limestone (calcium carbonate) dissolved in the water can neutralize acid, maintaining a more stable and livable pH for organisms. This sort of natural buffering capacity is what protects aquatic ecosystems in these regions.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Describe the origins of industrial smog, photochemical smog, and atmospheric brown clouds. What are the differences in the cause and appearance of each?

What naturally occurring cleanser helps to remove pollutants from the atmosphere? Where does it come from? What other mechanisms also act to cleanse the atmosphere of pollutants?

What are the seven major primary air pollutants and their sources?

What are the major secondary pollutants, and how are they formed?

How do CFCs affect the concentration of ozone in the stratosphere and contribute to the formation of the ozone hole?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Environmental Science Textbooks

Energy Resources

Read Explanation

Pollution

Read Explanation

Environmental Research

Read Explanation

Ecology Research

Read Explanation

Sustainability

Read Explanation

Environmental Policy

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free