Cambridge Marine Science 1603 Study Guide (AS Level)

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to Marine Science, specifically tailored for the AS Level curriculum.

Marine Science

The study of the ocean and its phenomena, encompassing marine organisms, ecosystems, and the physical and chemical properties of ocean water.

Oceanography

The branch of science that deals with the physical and biological properties and phenomena of the sea.

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Marine Organisms

Living creatures that inhabit the ocean, including fish, mammals, mollusks, and plankton.

Photosynthesis in Marine Plants

The process by which marine plants and phytoplankton convert light energy into chemical energy using carbon dioxide and water.

Salinity

The concentration of salts in water, typically expressed in parts per thousand (ppt) or grams per liter.

Tides

The rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and the Sun.

Currents

Large-scale flows of water within the ocean, driven by various forces including wind, the Earth's rotation, and temperature differences.

Coral Reefs

Underwater structures made from calcium carbonate secreted by corals, which provide habitat for diverse marine species.