The formation of the Hawaiian Islands is discussed on page 76 of your textbook. Using concepts you have learned thus far in the course, suggest possible reasons why the Big Island of Hawaii (the Southeastern-most Island of the island chain) is the largest island of the entire chain. For additional information on Loihi, the newest volcano in the chain, visit the Web site for the Hawaii Center for Volcanology.
Why are abyssal plains much more common in the Atlantic than in the Pacific? You'll find the information on pages 91-94 of the textbook helpful in formulating your answer.
The textbook shows illustrations of the Wilson Cycle.
Garrison, T. (2015). Essentials of Oceanography (7th ed.). p. 78. Brooks/Cole Publishing.
Examine these illustrations and describe the formation of a new ocean in detail, giving examples from around the world, especially from
East Africa. Also describe the process for the closure of a fully developed ocean.
The Gulf Stream is famous for producing turbulent rings, or eddies. Explain how the rings form, and briefly highlight differences between
warm and cold core rings. For assistance, please see the textbook, page 178, or visit:
Coastal Carolina University. (n.d.). Formation of gulf stream rings. Gulf Stream Tutorials.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (n.d.).Chapter 7: Gulf stream rings. Classic CZCS Scenes: Gulf Stream Rings.
Goddard Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center (GES DISC).
Explain why anticyclones rotate clockwise and cyclones rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, and why the opposite is true for the Southern Hemisphere. Please consult your textbook, pages 162-167. Be sure to mention the Coriolis Effect in your answer.
Unknown before 1977, hydrothermal vents, also known as black smokers, represent a unique environment on our planet. Take a stance of either supporting future exploration and research or calling for protection of this ecosystem. Consider if the mineral wealth associated with black smokersshould be exploited, or whether such a unique ecological environment should be conserved? Think about the future in terms of building an argument to environmentally protect black smoker ecosystems or allow for exploration, research, possible mining, a potential food source, and tourism. Your answer should be 1-2 pages long. Please cite all sources according to APA format.