Marine Ecology Unit 1 Review

Front

What is the primary factor influencing the sinking of water in the ocean?

Back

Salinity is the primary factor influencing the sinking of water in the ocean.

Front

What causes ocean waves?

Back

Ocean waves are caused by wind and seismic activity.

Front

How frequently do neap tides occur?

Back

Neap tides occur about twice a month.

Front

What is a misconception about volcanic island formation?

Back

A misconception is that there MUST be at least 2 hotspots for volcanic island formation.

Front

What methods do scientists use to gather information about the ocean floor?

Back

Scientists use sonar mapping, submersibles, and remotely operated vehicles to gather information about the ocean floor.

Front

Define salinity in the context of marine ecology.

Back

Salinity is the concentration of salts in water, which affects water density and marine life.

Front

What is the difference between neap tides and spring tides?

Back

Neap tides occur when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, resulting in lower high tides, while spring tides occur when the sun and moon are aligned, resulting in higher high tides.

Front

Explain the role of temperature in ocean water density.

Back

Temperature affects water density; warmer water is less dense and tends to rise, while cooler water is denser and sinks.

Front

What is a hotspot in the context of volcanic island formation?

Back

A hotspot is a location in the mantle where heat causes melting of the crust, leading to volcanic activity.

Front

How does ocean salinity vary with depth?

Back

Ocean salinity generally increases with depth due to the pressure and the dissolution of salts.