Measuring Acidification To understand the severity of ocean acidification, scientists monitor changes in ocean chemistry and use models to predict future conditions. Acidification Monitoring and Modeling The first step in understanding the impacts of ocean acidification is to look at the seawater carbonate chemistry parameters, including pH, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC), pCO₂, and Total Alkalinity (TA). These parameters can provide insight into the severity of ocean acidification and biological response. There are two main ways to determine seawater carbonate chemistry: through monitoring and modeling.
Monitoring refers to repeated measurements of seawater carbonate chemistry occurring in the same place over time. The rate, severity, and ultimate impact of ocean acidification can vary significantly across space and time. For this reason, it is important that monitoring takes place at diverse locations to reflect the unique biogeochemical conditions of different ecosystems. Depending on the frequency of data collection, monitoring can help scientists understand trends in ocean acidification at different time scales, detecting anything from daily to decadal trends.
Mathematical models leverage observational data and known physical ocean properties to predict seawater carbonate chemistry. We can’t monitor ocean acidification everywhere and at all times, so models can help fill in the gaps in our understanding. Models are often used to forecast future conditions. Coordination of Regional Monitoring We are helping our partners develop a regional monitoring network to understand trends in acidification, identify hotspots where species may be impacted, and fill gaps where additional monitoring may be needed. Want More Information About Our Monitoring Network?