Ferromanganese nodules, often referred to simply as manganese nodules, are geological formations that consist primarily of manganese and iron, along with various trace metals and minerals. They typically form on the ocean floor, particularly in the deep sea, and are known for their rounded, nodule-like shape, which can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. ### Composition and Formation 1.
A fixed-point ocean observatory is a type of research facility or system that is deployed in marine environments to monitor and collect continuous data on various oceanographic parameters. These observatories are typically anchored at specific locations in the ocean and can provide long-term observations that are crucial for understanding ocean processes, climate change, marine ecosystems, and other important scientific questions.
The Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) is a research institute based in Flanders, Belgium, that focuses on marine and coastal research. Established in 2000, VLIZ aims to promote and facilitate scientific research in marine science and to enhance the sustainable use of marine resources. VLIZ acts as a knowledge hub, providing information and data related to the marine environment, supporting researchers and institutions, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in marine research.
Flow tracer is a term that can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are a couple of possible interpretations: 1. **Computer Graphics and Visualization**: In visual computing, a flow tracer can refer to an algorithm or tool used to visualize fluid flow or motion in a medium. It often involves tracing the paths (or "lines") that particles would follow in a flow field, allowing for the visualization of complex fluid dynamics. This can be used in simulations, animations, or scientific visualization.
The Forel-Ule scale is a system used to classify the color of water, particularly in lakes and other bodies of freshwater. It was developed in the late 19th century by the Swiss scientist François Forel and further refined by the German chemist Otto Ule.
The General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) is a comprehensive global database that provides detailed information about the underwater topography of the world's oceans. It is specifically focused on mapping the ocean floor and creating detailed bathymetric maps, which depict the depth and shape of underwater features.
The Global Drifter Program (GDP) is an international oceanographic initiative aimed at studying and monitoring ocean currents and related environmental conditions. It involves the deployment of drifting buoys, known as drifters, that float on the ocean's surface and are equipped with sensors to collect data on temperature, salinity, atmospheric pressure, and other oceanographic parameters.
The Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN) is a comprehensive dataset that provides long-term historical climate data, primarily focusing on temperature and precipitation records. It is maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and is part of the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC). The GHCN integrates data from thousands of weather stations around the world, some of which have been in operation for over a century.
Global Ocean Ecosystem Dynamics (GLOBEC) refers to a research initiative and program focused on understanding the interactions between ocean ecosystems and their dynamics on a global scale. The initiative was aimed at improving our understanding of how environmental changes, including climate variability and anthropogenic influences, affect marine ecosystems and their resources.
The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) is an international initiative that aims to provide comprehensive, systematic, and sustained observations of the world's oceans. This initiative is vital for understanding the complex processes of the ocean, which plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate system, weather patterns, and ecological health. Key objectives and components of GOOS include: 1. **Data Collection**: GOOS gathers data on physical, chemical, biological, and geological parameters of the ocean.
The Global Ocean Ship-based Hydrographic Investigations Program (GO-SHIP) is an international initiative that aims to improve the understanding of ocean properties and dynamics through systematic and standardized ship-based measurements. GO-SHIP is primarily focused on conducting hydrographic surveys, which involve the collection of data on physical, chemical, and biological properties of the ocean.
Good Hope Jet refers to a regional airline based in South Africa, primarily operating domestic routes within the country and to neighboring destinations. The airline began operations in 2021, focusing on providing affordable air travel options for passengers. It aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility, particularly in regions that may not be serviced by larger carriers.
The Great Salinity Anomaly (GSA) refers to a significant and unusual event that characterized a large influx of freshwater into the North Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the late 20th century, primarily during the 1970s and 1980s. This freshwater influx was notable for its impact on ocean circulation patterns, climate, and marine ecosystems.
The Hadley cell is a large-scale atmospheric circulation pattern that occurs in the tropics. It is named after the British meteorologist George Hadley, who described it in the 18th century. The Hadley cell is characterized by the following features: 1. **Warm Air Rising**: Near the equator, intense solar heating warms the surface air, causing it to rise. As air rises, it cools and expands, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation.
The haline contraction coefficient, often denoted as \(\beta\), is a parameter used in oceanography to quantify how the density of seawater changes with variations in salinity at a constant temperature and pressure. Specifically, it measures the change in density per unit change in salinity.
The Hawaiian Trough, also known as the Hawaiian-Emperor Seamount Chain, is a submerged region in the Pacific Ocean associated with the Hawaiian Islands and the volcanic activity that has shaped them. It is part of a larger geological feature known as the Hawaiian-Emperor seamount chain, which comprises a series of islands and underwater mountains formed by the movement of the Pacific tectonic plate over a hot spot in the Earth's mantle.
The Hellenic Trench is a deep oceanic trench located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Greece. It is part of the complex tectonic boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The trench is characterized by significant geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic activity, as a result of the subduction of the African Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate.
High-nutrient, low-chlorophyll (HNLC) regions refer to ocean areas that have an abundance of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and iron, but exhibit low concentrations of chlorophyll-a, a pigment associated with phytoplankton growth. Chlorophyll-a is commonly used as an indicator of phytoplankton biomass in marine ecosystems.
A high-capacity oceanographic lithium battery pack is a specialized battery system designed for use in oceanographic research and marine applications. These battery packs are typically used to power various instruments, sensors, and equipment deployed in underwater environments for extended periods. Key features and aspects include: 1. **High Capacity**: These battery packs have a high energy density, meaning they can store a significant amount of energy relative to their weight and size, allowing for longer operational times between recharges.
The "Hotspot Ecosystem Research and Man's Impact on European Seas" (HERMIONE) project was a significant research initiative focused on the study of deep-sea ecosystems in European waters. Being part of the EU's Seventh Framework Programme, the project aimed to assess the biological, geological, and physical aspects of deep-sea environments, particularly those that are at risk from human activities like fishing, pollution, and climate change.