Weathering and pH

Water is critical to sustaining life on Earth. Two weeks ago we discussed pH balance. You learned that water was slightly acidic as a result of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. There are other factors that can change the pH level in water.

Weathering is one of these factors; one that isn't necessarily bad for life. When weathering occurs, minerals are taken from the rock and placed in the run-off water. This water is then consumed by plants and animals. The plants and animals need the minerals as part of normal cell function. Still, there can be too much of a good thing, and if there are too many minerals in the water then the water becomes too acidic for some life. Therefore, any time the amount of weathering that happens in an ecosystem changes (maybe because there is more or less water), it may hurt life. Fish are particularly susceptible, since water is so common in their ecosystem.



Source: http://nre509.wikidot.com/lecture-8-background