Read the extract about sea water below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 3 - 2024 - Paper 1

CO₂ does not dissociate in water because it is a non-polar molecule. In water, it remains intact and does not break down into ions, unlike some other compounds that do dissociate.

CO₂ is considered a greenhouse gas due to its ability to trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and leading to an increase in global temperatures.

The relationship between CO₂ and global temperatures is directly proportional. Higher levels of CO₂ in the atmosphere lead to increased heat retention, causing a rise in global temperatures. This heat accumulation results from the greenhouse effect, whereby heat radiated from the Earth is trapped by greenhouse gases.

Increased levels of CO₂ in the ocean can lead to ocean acidification, which negatively impacts sea urchins. The acidification reduces the availability of carbonate ions, which are essential for sea urchins to build their calcium carbonate shells. This can result in weaker shells and increased vulnerability to predators.

Increased levels of CO₂ in the ocean could potentially be beneficial to algae, as higher CO₂ concentrations can enhance photosynthesis, leading to increased growth rates. However, it is important to consider the overall effects of ocean acidification and the possible resultant changes in marine ecosystems, which could negate these benefits.