Introduction: The Water Planet
Earth is sometimes referred to as the Water Planet. The oceans cover more than 71% of the Earth's surface and regulate its climate and atmosphere. The water, however, is not equally distributed across the surface. About two-thirds of Earth's land is found in the Northern Hemisphere, where 61% of the surface is covered with water. In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere is 80% covered with water. Please look at the animated image below to see several ways to divide the oceans of the Earth.
The oceans are commonly divided into four large sections, or basins: The Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Artic Oceans. The Pacific is the largest and deepest of the four oceans, having more area than the other three combined. The Artic is the smallest and shallowest ocean. In addition to the four main oceans, there are several shallow seas that are connected to the main oceans. The examples include the Mediterranean, the Gulf of Mexico and the South China Sea.
Beneath the oceans and seas lies land that is unique from the land you find on continents. It is in a constant state of creation and destruction and the processes acting on the sea floor affect not only the oceans, but the surface land as well.
Objective:
- The student will interpret scientific data and produce appropriate graphic representations of that data.
Standards:
- Ma: The student will demonstrate an understanding of how scientific inquiry and technological design, including mathematical analysis, can be used appropriately to pose questions, seek answers, and develop solutions.
- Ma.2: Use appropriate laboratory apparatuses, technology, and techniques safely and accurately when conducting a scientific investigation.
- Ma.3: Use scientific instruments to record measurement data in appropriate metric units that reflect the precision and accuracy of each particular instrument.
- Ma.5: Organize and interpret the data from a controlled scientific investigation by using mathematics, graphs, models, and/or technology.
Topics
Topics in this section of Module 1 include:
- Earth's Surface
- Continental Drift
- Sea Floor Structures
Guiding Questions
- How has the surface of the Earth evolved over its geologic history as a result of geologic process?
- How will the characteristics of the sea floor continue to change as a result of geologic processes?
Now please click the menu item under Lessons at the top titled, Engage: Earth's Oceans to watch a video about the importance of the Earth's oceans.
Photo Attribution
Description: Various ways to divide the World Ocean
Source: Wikimedia Commons