A scientist observers that the shell of oysters this year are thinner than the shells of oysters several years ago. How could this trend be related to the use of fossil fuels

Question

Higher levels of ozone in the ocean keep oysters from building shells
Lower carbon levels mean that oysters do not have enough materials to build shells Lower carbon
Fossil fuel spills in the ocean prevent oysters from building shells Lower carbon
Increases acidic ocean water makes building shells more difficult

Answer 1

The trend of thinner oyster shells can be related to the use of fossil fuels through the increase in ocean acidification. Specifically, the option that states, "Increased acidic ocean water makes building shells more difficult," is the most relevant explanation.

When fossil fuels are burned, they release carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. A significant portion of this CO2 is absorbed by the oceans, leading to a chemical reaction that forms carbonic acid. As the acidity of the ocean increases, it can make it more difficult for marine organisms, including oysters, to extract the calcium carbonate needed to build their shells. As a result, the shells may become thinner and weaker over time.