Ocean Acidification Workshop!

4th, 5th and 6th classes were delighted to welcome Benny Joyce, Marine Biologist, and to participate in a science workshop exploring Ocean Acidification. 

 

The children conducted an experiment on acidification of our oceans using lab equipment where the children could visually see the effects before their eyes and get an opportunity to measure, record and discuss changes in acidity known as pH . They learned about acids, bases, acid scales, a little on reverse reactions, how carbonic acid is produced and the affects on our marine life forms and the measures we can take to protect our oceans and our planet moving forward. 

 

They heard about the direct affects of acids on the outer shells of our marine organisms. We talked about the bleaching effects, types of shells (soft and hard) and how shells and coral dissolve over time because of this acidification. 

 

They discussed how to take measurements and how to record and plot their results too. 

 

Benny kindly donated a Rowan (Mountain Ash) tree as trees and plants can help counteract some of the excess carbon in our atmosphere.