Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Light in the Ocean

Today in class we discuses light in the ocean. Areas where the light can reach are known as the photic zone, and can extend to as deep as 300 feet where the water is really clear and not turbid. The aphotic zone is the darker area where the light does not reach - and includes most of the ocean.

Turbidity is a measure of how clear the water is - and does not necessarily refer to dirt. Turbidity is often affected by tiny microscopic plankton that float in the water - this is the main reason why the North Atlantic Ocean is not clear.

We also discussed bio-lumi-nescence - the ability of organisms to make their own light. This can be used to attract prey, get mates, or to deter predators. Many of these creatures live in the deep sea and are ugly. We looked at some photos taken by Dr. Edie Widder of deep sea creatures and watched some videos. For more information and photos - click here. 

Students finished class by working on a worksheet concerning upwelling in California. Upwelling is when cold water rises to the surface bringing up important nutrients.
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Computer Lab Etiquette

You are in the computer lab to do work for this class. If you are not doing work, then we will have problems.

Do not pack up early. Work until the bell or until MsJ says.

SAVE OFTEN. And if you save to a key, also save it to your number. If you lose it, you will have to do it again.

If MsJ asks for your attention, stop what you are doing and listen to what she has to say.

You may watch videos about your organism through reliable websites.

You may listen to music through the computer if you have your own headphones. Rule1 MsJ cannot hear it. You get one warning. Rule2 Turn it on and listen – no million clicks and constant changing. Take both ear phones out when MsJ is talking.