Science - 4.7 Oceans

SOL 4.7 What are ocean systems comprised of?

Interacting and interdependent elements that can change in response to inputs and outputs of energy and matter.

SOL 4.7 How do the ocean's geological and physical properties affect organisms?

They affect the interactions among organisms.

SOL 4.7 What are important features of the ocean floor?

The continental shelf, continental slope, continental rise, abyssal plain, and ocean trenches.

SOL 4.7 What covers most areas of the ocean floor?

Thick layers of sediments such as sand, mud, and rocks.

SOL 4.7 Does the depth of the ocean stay the same?

No, the depth of the ocean varies.

SOL 4.7 How are ocean trenches described?

Very deep.

SOL 4.7 How is the continental shelf described?

Mostly shallow.

SOL 4.7 What is ocean water?

A complex mixture of gases, water, and dissolved solids.

SOL 4.7 What are marine organisms dependent on?

Dissolved gases for survival.

SOL 4.7 What is salinity?

The measure of all salts dissolved in water.

SOL 4.7 Why does the salinity of ocean water vary in some places?

Because of rates of evaporation, the depth of the water, melting icebergs, and the amount of runoff from nearby land.

SOL 4.7 What causes ocean currents such as the Gulf Stream?

Wind patterns and differences in water due primarily to temperature differences.

SOL 4.7 What do ocean currents affect?

The mixing of ocean waters, plant and animal populations, and navigation routes.

SOL 4.7 What are floating organisms?

Organisms such as plankton and algae that float in the ocean.

SOL 4.7 What are swimming organisms?

Organisms such as fish and sharks that move through the water.

SOL 4.7 What are non

moving organisms?

SOL 4.7 What role do floating organisms such as algae serve in a food chain?

They serve as producers.

SOL 4.7 How are organisms in the ocean environment grouped?

According to their movement.

SOL 4.7 What role do organisms play in the ocean?

They play a role in ocean food chains.