Name ________________________________ Period _________ Date _________________
Ocean Science 101: Ocean layering explained - Scripps Institute of Oceanography
Directions: Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxdiU3LJlZ8. Use the information
provided in the video and your knowledge of ocean science to answer the following questions.
DENSITY
1. Compare the weights of equal volumes of salt and fresh water (2 points)
2. When comparing equal volumes of salt and fresh water, why does salt water weigh
more? (2 points)
3. Which weighs more, cold water or warm water? (1 point)
4. Describe the layering of ocean water based on density and temperature (4 points)
5. Why are surface waters warmer and fresher than deep ocean water? (2 points)
6. The density gradient between the warm fresher water and the cold saltier water is
called what? (1 point)
7. Predict what will happen to the green food coloring when the barrier in the
demonstration tank is removed (2 points)
8. Describe the movement of the green food coloring after the barrier was removed (4
points).
9. Explain why the green food coloring moved the way it did (5 points).
10.
11. Use the space below to copy Dr. Frank’s notes on the explanation for the demonstration
(10 points).
INTERNAL WAVES
12. Use the space below to copy Dr. Frank’s internal waves explanation (5 points).
WIND MIXING
13. What is the force behind turbulence and mixing of surface waters? (2 points)
Summary Questions:
1. Describe the stratification (layering) of the interior of the ocean (2 points)
2. Describe the movement of waves inside the ocean (not at the surface) (2 points)
3. The pycnocline is a barrier to ______________________.
4. What is needed to move nutrients up through the pycnocline?