How the Ocean Floor Got Filled with Riches

The video explores the formation of valuable mineral deposits on the ocean floor, including massive sulfide deposits at hydrothermal vents, cobalt-rich crusts, and manganese nodules. These deposits result from complex geochemical processes over millions of years. While these resources are abundant, their extraction poses environmental challenges, highlighting the need for careful consideration of their impact on ocean ecosystems.

What geological feature is primarily responsible for the formation of massive sulfide deposits on the ocean floor?

• Underwater volcanoes

• Hydrothermal vents

• Deep-sea trenches

• Coral reefs

Which metals are commonly found in cobalt-rich crusts?

• Copper and zinc

• Lead and sulfur

• Cobalt and manganese

• Gold and silver

How do manganese nodules begin to form on the ocean floor?

• From tectonic plate movements

• Around a piece of debris

• Through volcanic eruptions

• By chemical reactions with seawater

What role do bacteria play in the formation of manganese nodules?

• They prevent the accumulation of metals

• They convert manganese to manganese oxide

• They provide a nucleus for growth

• They dissolve metals in seawater

Why is there concern about mining manganese nodules from the ocean floor?

• It may disrupt sea floor ecosystems

• It requires advanced technology not yet available

• It could deplete land-based metal resources

• It is too expensive to be profitable