This project explores how increasing ocean acidity affects organisms with calcium carbonate shells. By simulating acidification and observing shell degradation, students can assess environmental impacts.
If the acidity of the ocean increases, then the rate of shell degradation in marine calcifiers will accelerate.
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Collect sea shells or coral fragments of similar size and weight.
Fill each glass jar with a measured amount of vinegar to simulate ocean acidity.
Record the initial weight of each shell or fragment using a digital scale.
Place a shell or fragment in each jar and submerge it in vinegar.
Use pH strips to measure the acidity level in each jar.
Observe changes over time and record any visible signs of degradation.
After a set period, remove each shell, dry it, and weigh it.
Compare the initial and final weights to determine the rate of degradation.
Analyze the data to assess the impact of acidification on shell integrity.
Discuss implications for marine ecosystems.
Increased acidity is expected to result in significant shell degradation, demonstrating the vulnerability of marine organisms to ocean acidification.
Acidity level
Rate of shell degradation
Shell size and type, Volume of vinegar, Temperature, Time submerged
Handle vinegar with care to avoid skin and eye irritation. Wear gloves and goggles as necessary.
Include before-and-after images of the shells to illustrate changes.
Use graphs to show the relationship between pH levels and degradation rates.
Discuss the global significance of ocean acidification on marine life.
Vinegar is an acid that can simulate the effects of increased ocean acidity.
Yes, other acids such as hydrochloric acid can be used, but with caution.
They highlight the risk to species relying on calcium carbonate for survival as ocean pH levels change.
