environmental effects of carbon dioxide

Greenhouse effect

The greenhouse effect is caused by the presence of greenhouse gases (CO2, methane and nitrous oxide) in the atmosphere. The heat energy from the Sun is allowed to pass through but it traps the heat energy radiating back from the Earth's surface.

Acidification of the ocean

The increasing amount of CO2 dissolving causes the increase in the acidity of the ocean. This has a negative effect on marine organisms (e.g. the acidity inhibits the formation of shells - which contain calcium carbonate - as well as corals and plankton). These marine organisms form the basis of the marine ecosystem.

Acid rain

Carbon dioxide gas dissolves in water to form carbonic acid. This, along with other gases/acids will dissolve limestone and marble, destroy forests by preventing photosynthesis, and acidify the water in lakes and dams, causing animals to die.

Global warming

As a result of the greenhouse effect, the surface of the Earth is warming. This can result in the ice melting in the polar regions, which causes seawater to rise and shorelines can also disappear below sea level.