Which of the following pollutants is responsible for the acidification of ocean?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 4 i.e. Carbon dioxide (CO2).
The primary pollutant responsible for the acidification of the ocean is carbon dioxide (CO₂). When excess CO₂ is released into the atmosphere from activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, a large portion is absorbed by oceans. It reacts with seawater to form carbonic acid, which lowers the pH level of the ocean. This process harms marine ecosystems, affecting coral reefs, shell-forming organisms, and overall biodiversity. Hence, CO₂ emissions are the main driver of ocean acidification globally.