Understanding Oceans

What is the primary reason most of Earth's water is not drinkable?

• It contains too many nutrients

• It is frozen at the poles

• It has high salinity (salt content)

• It is too deep underground

What is the main source of salinity in ocean water?

• Pollution from factories

• Evaporation, rocks, and ocean floor cracks

• Marine life excreting salt

• Rainwater dissolving oxygen into the ocean

Which ocean zone receives sunlight and supports most marine plant life?

• A) Aphotic Zone

• B) Photic Zone

• C) Deep Ocean Zone

• D) Hydrothermal Zone

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What causes deep ocean currents to form?

• Wind blowing across the ocean surface

• The melting of ice at the equator

• Differences in water density due to salinity and temperature

• The rotation of the Earth creating waves

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What happens when ice forms at the poles?

• It increases water salinity and makes the water denser

• It decreases ocean salinity and slows currents

• It raises ocean temperatures globally

• It has no impact on the ocean’s movement

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What effect do ocean currents have on Earth’s climate?

• They keep ocean water still and prevent mixing

• They help regulate global temperatures by distributing heat

• They cause earthquakes and volcanic eruptions

• They remove all salt from ocean water

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Which organism is the main producer in ocean ecosystems?

• Fish

• Phytoplankton

• Squid

• Jellyfish

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Why are upwellings important for ocean life?

• They bring warm water to the surface, helping fish stay warm

• They increase ocean salinity, making water more drinkable

• They bring nutrient-rich water to the surface, supporting marine life

• They create large waves, allowing ocean animals to move faster

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Why do coastal areas with upwellings tend to have a lot of fish?

• The movement of water keeps fish close to the shore

• More oxygen is produced by deep-sea vents in these areas

• Nutrients rise from deep water, supporting a strong food chain

• Upwellings scare predators away, helping fish populations grow

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What is one major way humans negatively impact the ocean?

• Creating artificial reefs for marine life

• Overfishing and disrupting food chains

• Increasing ocean currents with ships

• Providing extra food for marine animals

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