Plankton Learning Objectives Flashcard

Front

What is the density of water compared to air?

Back

830x greater than air.

Front

What is the average salinity of the oceans in parts per thousand?

Back

35 parts per thousand.

Front

What is the relationship between salinity and density in seawater?

Back

As salinity increases, density increases.

Front

Which tool is most commonly used for measuring salinity in home aquaria?

Back

Hydrometer.

Front

In which direction does the Ekman transport move relative to the wind direction?

Back

Perpendicular to the wind.

Front

Define salinity in the context of oceanography.

Back

Salinity is the measure of the concentration of dissolved salts in water, typically expressed in parts per thousand (ppt).

Front

What is the primary factor that affects the density of seawater?

Back

Temperature and salinity are the primary factors affecting seawater density.

Front

Explain the concept of Ekman transport.

Back

Ekman transport is the net movement of water at an angle to the wind direction due to the Coriolis effect, typically resulting in a 90-degree angle to the right in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

What is the role of a refractometer in marine studies?

Back

A refractometer is used to measure the refractive index of water, which helps determine its salinity.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of seawater?

Back

As temperature increases, the density of seawater generally decreases.