Ocean Zones Review

Front

What are benthos?

Back

Benthos are organisms that live on or near the ocean floor, often including consumers like crabs and sea stars.

Front

What is the intertidal zone?

Back

The intertidal zone is the area between the highest tide line and the lowest tide line, where the ocean meets the land.

Front

What does the photic zone refer to?

Back

The photic zone is the upper layer of the ocean that receives sunlight, allowing photosynthesis to occur.

Front

What are hydrothermal vents?

Back

Hydrothermal vents are openings in the ocean floor that release heated water and minerals from the Earth's crust.

Front

How do ocean tides help estuaries?

Back

Ocean tides help flush out pollutants from rivers that contaminate estuaries, maintaining a healthier ecosystem.

Front

What is the abyssal zone?

Back

The abyssal zone is the deep part of the ocean, typically found at depths of 2000 meters or more, characterized by high pressure and low temperatures.

Front

What is the continental shelf?

Back

The continental shelf is the underwater landmass that extends from a continent, typically shallow and rich in marine life.

Front

What is the significance of the oceanic ridge?

Back

The oceanic ridge is a continuous mountain range on the ocean floor, formed by tectonic plate movements and is a site of new oceanic crust formation.

Front

What is the role of phytoplankton in the ocean?

Back

Phytoplankton are microscopic plants that live in the photic zone and are crucial for photosynthesis, producing oxygen and serving as the base of the marine food web.

Front

What is an estuary?

Back

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, creating a unique ecosystem.