If the temperature of the Antarctic waters increased by a marked degree, which of the following statements would explain a decrease in the abundant life there now?

The waters of the Antarctic region contain an abundance of animal and plant life. The large number of living organisms stems partly from the water’s high mineral content and partly from the constant cold temperature. The continual flow of materials from below brings nitrates and phosphates into the surface zone. Cold water holds more dissolved carbon dioxide and oxygen than does warm water. The abundance of carbon dioxide and the available sunlight allow photosynthesis to occur in the surface waters almost continuously during the long daylight hours in the summer.

If the temperature of the Antarctic waters increased by a marked degree, which of the following statements would explain a decrease in the abundant life there now?
A . In warm water, oxygen and carbon dioxide combine to form ammonia and other poisonous gases.
B . Warm water evaporates much more slowly than cold water.
C . Warm water contains less dissolved carbon dioxide needed for photosynthesis.
D . Minerals dissolve more readily in cold water.
E . Warm water contains more oxygen than cold water.

View Answer

Answer: C