Final Review Flashcardizz #1 - Units 1 - 3

Front

What causes onshore and offshore breezes in coastal areas?

Back

Onshore breezes occur when the land heats up faster than the ocean, causing warm air to rise over the land and cooler air from the ocean to move in. Offshore breezes happen when the land cools faster than the ocean, causing warm air to rise over the ocean and cooler air from the land to move out.

Front

How does the ocean's ability to store heat affect the climate?

Back

The ocean absorbs and stores a significant amount of heat from the sun, which helps regulate the Earth's climate by moderating temperature fluctuations.

Front

What role do marine organisms play in the carbon cycle?

Back

Marine organisms contribute to the carbon cycle through respiration, which adds carbon to the atmosphere, and photosynthesis, particularly by phytoplankton, which removes carbon from the atmosphere.

Front

How does heat transfer from the sun to the Earth?

Back

Heat from the sun reaches the Earth by radiation, using electromagnetic waves to transfer the heat.

Front

What distinguishes jovian planets from terrestrial planets?

Back

Jovian planets (gas giants) have thicker atmospheres composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, while terrestrial planets have solid surfaces and are smaller in size.

Front

Define radiation in the context of heat transfer.

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves, allowing energy to travel through the vacuum of space.

Front

What is the significance of photosynthesis in marine ecosystems?

Back

Photosynthesis by phytoplankton is crucial in marine ecosystems as it removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produces oxygen, supporting marine life.

Front

Explain the concept of thermal inertia in oceans.

Back

Thermal inertia refers to the ocean's ability to absorb and retain heat, leading to slower temperature changes compared to land.

Front

What is the impact of ocean currents on climate?

Back

Ocean currents distribute heat around the planet, influencing climate patterns and weather systems by transporting warm and cold water.

Front

Describe the process of decomposition in the carbon cycle.

Back

Decomposition of dead marine organisms releases carbon back into the atmosphere, contributing to the carbon cycle.