8.E.1.2 Review

Front

What are hydrothermal vents?

Back

Hydrothermal vents are openings in the seafloor that emit heated water rich in minerals, providing a unique ecosystem that supports various marine life.

Front

What is the role of dissolved gases in ocean water?

Back

Dissolved gases, primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide, are crucial for marine life; oxygen is used for respiration, while carbon dioxide is utilized by photosynthetic organisms.

Front

What is upwelling in oceanography?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, supporting high productivity and large populations of marine organisms.

Front

What is phytoplankton?

Back

Phytoplankton are microscopic plants that form the base of the marine food web, using photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy.

Front

What is the surface zone of the ocean?

Back

The surface zone is the upper layer of the ocean where temperature is most affected by weather, typically warmer and well-lit, supporting diverse marine life.

Front

What is the significance of cold water temperatures in the deep ocean?

Back

Cold water temperatures in the deep ocean help maintain stable conditions for unique ecosystems, but they are not the primary support for life compared to hydrothermal vents.

Front

What is the impact of extreme water pressure on deep-sea organisms?

Back

Extreme water pressure in the deep ocean affects the physiology of organisms, leading to adaptations such as flexible bodies and specialized cellular structures.

Front

How do predators affect marine ecosystems?

Back

Predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by controlling the population of prey species.

Front

What are the most abundant dissolved gases in ocean water?

Back

The most abundant dissolved gases in ocean water are oxygen and carbon dioxide, essential for marine life.

Front

What is the relationship between upwelling and marine biodiversity?

Back

Upwelling enhances marine biodiversity by bringing nutrients to the surface, supporting a variety of life forms.