Oceanography Flashcard Earth Science

Front

What causes high salinity in the Mediterranean Ocean?

Back

Evaporation is the primary cause of high salinity in the Mediterranean Ocean.

Front

What is the portion of the marine biome that is shallow enough for sunlight to penetrate?

Back

The photic zone is the portion of the marine biome that is shallow enough for sunlight to penetrate.

Front

What is the portion of the shoreline that lies between the high and low tide lines?

Back

The intertidal zone is the portion of the shoreline that lies between the high and low tide lines.

Front

Why is seawater typically denser than freshwater?

Back

Seawater is typically denser than freshwater due to its higher salinity.

Front

What is the ocean layer of rapid temperature change with depth called?

Back

The thermocline is the ocean layer of rapid temperature change with depth.

Front

Define salinity in the context of oceanography.

Back

Salinity refers to the concentration of salts in seawater, typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt).

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the significance of the photic zone in marine ecosystems?

Back

The photic zone is significant because it is where photosynthesis occurs, supporting the majority of marine life.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Front

Explain the term 'intertidal zone'.

Back

The intertidal zone is the area of the shoreline that is exposed to air at low tide and submerged at high tide.

Front

What factors contribute to the density of seawater?

Back

The density of seawater is influenced by temperature, salinity, and pressure.

Front

What is the role of evaporation in ocean salinity?

Back

Evaporation removes water from the ocean surface, increasing the concentration of salts and thus salinity.