2 Multiple Choice 1 point Which of the following is a major consequence of ocean acidification? Increase in fish populations Breakdown of coral reefs and shellfish skeletons Increased oxygen levels

## Step 1<br />Ocean acidification is a process that occurs when carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed by seawater. This absorption leads to a chemical reaction that reduces the pH of the seawater, making it more acidic. This change in pH can have significant impacts on marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate structures such as coral reefs and shellfish.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The increased acidity of the ocean can lead to the breakdown of coral reefs and shellfish skeletons. This is because the increased acidity can dissolve the calcium carbonate structures that these organisms rely on for their survival.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The other options, such as an increase in fish populations and increased oxygen levels, are not direct consequences of ocean acidification. In fact, ocean acidification can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the ocean, which can negatively impact marine life.