TED: Is climate change slowing down the ocean? | Susan Lozier

The video discusses the historical and modern questions about oceanography, focusing on the ocean overturning circulation and its impact on climate and carbon uptake. It highlights the risks of climate change on ocean currents and the importance of global measurements like the OSNAP project. The video concludes with a call to action to reduce carbon emissions to prevent further disruptions.

What was one of the key questions posed by Adelard Abath that remains relevant to oceanographers today?

• Why do rivers flow into the sea?

• Why are the waters of the sea salty?

• How do fish breathe underwater?

• What causes rain to fall?

What is the primary function of the ocean overturning circulation?

• To create ocean waves

• To produce marine life

• To regulate global temperatures

• To generate tidal energy

How does the ocean overturning circulation affect carbon dioxide levels?

• It only affects carbon dioxide levels in the tropics

• It decreases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

• It increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

• It has no effect on carbon dioxide levels

What potential climate disruptions could occur if the ocean overturning circulation slows down?

• Milder winters

• Stronger hurricanes

• Increased snowfall

• Less rainfall

What is the purpose of the OSNAP observing system?

• To predict weather patterns

• To track marine life migration

• To measure ocean salinity

• To monitor ocean currents and temperature

How do autonomous gliders contribute to oceanographic research?

• By cleaning the ocean floor

• By taking measurements at depth

• By transporting researchers

• By generating electricity

Why is it challenging to determine the current state of the ocean overturning circulation?

• Due to insufficient funding

• Because of the noise in ocean data

• Because the ocean is too deep

• Due to lack of technology

What is the main goal of the global measurement system in oceanography?

• To map the ocean floor

• To measure global warming

• To understand ocean changes and impacts

• To track fish populations

What is the suggested solution to reduce the risk of ocean overturning slowdown?

• Enhance marine tourism

• Build more dams

• Increase fishing activities

• Reduce carbon dioxide emissions

How much time do we have to address the challenges posed by ocean changes, according to the speaker?

• 9 months

• 9 centuries

• 9 years

• 9 decades