Orientation to Marine Sciences Flashcards
(23 cards)
What is the purpose of the Marine Sciences subject?
To nurture citizens, communicate meaningfully about the ocean, and make informed decisions about its resources.
What are the four strands of Marine Sciences?
- Oceanography
- Marine Biology
- Ocean Ecology
- Humans and the Ocean
What is Oceanography?
The study of the sea floor, sediments, chemical composition of seawater, and how the ocean influences weather and climate.
What does Marine Biology focus on?
The classification, fundamental biology, evolutionary processes, marine biodiversity, and organism adaptation to environments.
What is the significance of Marine Ecology?
It explores ecosystems and ecological concepts such as nutrient cycles and food chains.
What are some human impacts on the ocean mentioned in the text?
- Ocean acidification
- Climate change
- Coral bleaching
- Over-harvesting of sea-life
What is Ocean Literacy?
A concept shared among scientists and educators to raise awareness about human impacts on the ocean.
True or False: The ocean is largely unexplored.
True.
Fill in the blank: Marine Sciences is informed by _______.
[four strands]
What are the requirements for studying Marine Sciences at a tertiary level in South Africa?
Mathematics and Physical Sciences at matriculation level.
What is a bathythermograph?
An instrument used to test the temperature of the ocean at any depth.
What is a quadrat?
A portable frame to isolate a standard area for study.
What does a refractometer measure?
The degree to which light entering a liquid changes direction.
What is the purpose of a Secchi disk?
To measure the transparency of water.
What is the relationship between humans and the ocean?
Humans rely on the ocean for food, transport, recreation, and economic resources.
What impact does the ocean have on Earth’s weather and climate?
It influences moisture and heat energy transfer, producing various weather events.
What is one career related to Marine Sciences?
Marine Archaeologist.
What is the importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)?
They serve as models for sustainably managing ocean resources.
What does the term ‘eco-tourism’ refer to?
A career focus on non-consumptive utilization of ocean resources.
How does the Marine Sciences curriculum develop a sense of belonging?
By fostering a commitment to the oceanic environment and informed global citizenship.
What does Marine Meteorology study?
Heat and water transfer between the ocean and the atmosphere, including weather patterns.
What historical significance does the ocean have for humans?
It has been a source of food, a medium for exploration and trade, and a spiritual influence.
What are the effects of excessive resource use on ocean ecosystems?
They disrupt delicate balances and can lead to habitat destruction.
