The Most Incredible Snowfall on Earth Occurs Deep Underwater

The video explains marine snow, a crucial component of ocean ecosystems and the global carbon cycle. Marine snow consists of organic matter, including plankton remains and fecal pellets, that sinks to the ocean floor, providing food for deep-sea organisms. It plays a significant role in carbon storage, impacting climate by reducing atmospheric CO2. Human activities threaten this process by increasing ocean acidity, which affects marine snow formation and carbon storage. Understanding marine snow is vital for predicting climate changes and maintaining Earth's climate balance.

What is marine snow primarily composed of?

• Salt crystals

• Ice crystals

• Fluffy bits of organic matter

• Sand particles

Which process allows certain bacteria to form the base of ecosystems in the deep ocean?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Chemosynthesis

• Fermentation

What role does marine snow play in the carbon cycle?

• It releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

• It stores carbon in deep-sea sediments

• It increases carbon levels in the ocean

• It has no impact on the carbon cycle

How does marine snow contribute to the formation of limestone?

• By eroding rocks

• By decomposing into chalk deposits

• By increasing ocean acidity

• By forming coral reefs

What is one consequence of increased CO2 levels in the ocean?

• Decreased ocean temperature

• Increased ocean salinity

• Increased ocean acidity

• Decreased ocean currents

How does ocean acidification affect marine snow?

• It enhances the formation of marine snow

• It increases the size of marine snow particles

• It has no effect on marine snow

• It disrupts the formation of carbon-storing oozes

Why are scientists monitoring changes in marine snow?

• To reduce ocean pollution

• To improve ocean navigation

• To understand its role in climate change

• To increase fish populations