IntroductionEarth's oceans are an important part of the natural cycles that make this planet habitable. They regulate global temperatures, absorb carbon dioxide, are home to millions of plants and animals that make up different levels of the food chain, and much more. They are a resource that we can use and benefit from, but they are also a resource that must be protected. It is the source of life on the planet and drastic changes in the composition of the oceans could harm life as we know it. Ocean acidification is a problem that has emerged over the last decade, but which is of increasing concern to many scientists (1). In this essay, I will attempt to draw your attention to some of the possible and observed impacts of global ocean acidification, present some of the likely causes, and suggest possible solutions to the problem. The essay will also address the possibility that the evidence could be interpreted differently so as not to implicate humans as the primary cause responsible for the destruction seen in acidified waters. Defining ocean acidificationOcean acidification occurs when carbon dioxide is absorbed into ocean water. the oceans. This causes a chain of chemical reactions leading to the formation of carbonic acid in the water. (2) Additionally, many animals in the oceans use calcium carbonate ions to build their shells. However, during the process of carbonic acid formation, these ions are destroyed, creating a calcium carbonate deficiency and preventing these animals from forming their vital and protective substances. shells. (1) The reaction occurs when carbon dioxide, which is heavier than air, sinks in large clouds over oceans and is absorbed middle of paper...... is recognized by both environmental organizations and governments, but also individuals who must be aware of the impact of their actions and their energy consumption. Whether it is a new form of energy or a refined old form of energy, ongoing research and work must be done to ensure that we are good stewards of the land we have been on. given to live. Works Cited http://www.pmel. noaa.gov/co2/story/What+is+Ocean+Acidification%3Fhttp://ocean.nationalgeographic.com/ocean/critical-issues-ocean-acidification/One Ocean documentaryhttp://oceanacidification.noaa.gov/WhatsNew. aspxhttp://www.pnas.org.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/content/105/45/17442.fullhttp://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/deadzone.htmlhttp://www.scientificamerican.com/ article/noaa-scientists-embark-voyage-asses-ocean-acidification/http://icesjms.oxfordjournals.org/content/68/6/1019.abstract