acidificación

Acidificación refers to the process by which the pH of an environment decreases, becoming more acidic. This phenomenon can occur naturally, but it is often exacerbated by human activities. The most prominent example of acidificación in the modern world is the increasing acidity of the oceans, a direct consequence of absorbing excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, which then dissociates into hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions. The increase in hydrogen ions leads to a lower pH, making the water more acidic. This oceanic acidificación has significant implications for marine ecosystems. Many marine organisms, such as corals, shellfish, and plankton, rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons. As the ocean becomes more acidic, the availability of carbonate ions decreases, making it harder for these organisms to survive and grow.

Beyond the oceans, acidificación can also affect terrestrial environments. Acid rain, caused by the release of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from burning fossil fuels, can lower the pH of soils and freshwater bodies. This can harm plant life, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and damage infrastructure. Understanding the causes and consequences of acidificación is crucial for addressing its environmental impacts and developing strategies to mitigate its effects.