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In this activity, learners investigate how increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the burning of fossil fuels is changing the acidity (pH) of the ocean and affecting coral reefs and other marine animals. Learners conduct an experiment to see whether CO2 is making the oceans more basic or acidic.
- 10 to 30 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 11 - 14
- Activity, Demonstration, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Three large, clear jars or cups for the educator demonstration
- Two small, clear jars with lids (such as baby food jars) for each group of four learners
- One straw for each learner
- 1 red cabbage
- Enough red cabbage juice (see instructions for how to prepare under Advance Preparations) to fill each small jar about 1 inch high and each large jar about 2 inches high)
- Common household acid (vinegar or lemon juice)
- Common household base (baking soda or ammonia-based cleaning product)
- Corals and Chemistry worksheet (one copy per group of four learners)
- Video on coral systems and their importance (optional)
- Video on ocean acidification processes and the effects on corals and shellfish (optional)
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
-
Earth Processes
- Weather and Climate
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Earth Structure
- Oceans and Water
- Atmosphere
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Earth Processes
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Life Sciences
- Cells
-
Diversity of Life
- Animals
-
Ecology
- Ecosystems
- Human Impact
-
Physical Sciences
-
Chemistry
- Chemical Reactions
- Acids and Bases
-
Chemistry
-
The Nature of Science
-
Science and Society
- Risks and Benefits
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Science and Society
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The Nature of Technology
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Technology and Society
- Technology and the Environment
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Technology and Society
Informal Categories
- Animals
- Nature and Environment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- see color
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, United States Environmental Protection Agency,