How are computer models essential for ocean research?
Computer models of the ocean use calculations to solve complex mathematical equations. These calculations represent the behaviors of a complicated system like the ocean. For example, parts of the ocean system, such as temperature and salinity, or the levels of salt, are constantly changing.
What is the name of the NASA computer model used to understand sea surface currents?
But a new, airborne radar instrument developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, is able to measure both. Called DopplerScatt, the instrument is a spinning radar that “pings” the ocean’s surface, allowing it to take measurements from multiple directions at once.
Which tool is most useful for mapping ocean currents?
Which tool is most useful for mapping ocean currents? The Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler is commonly used to measure currents. It is normally deployed on the seafloor or attached to the bottom of a boat. It sends an acoustic signal into the water column and that sound bounces off particles in the water.
Can you simulate ocean water?
There are many different kinds of salt that can be used to make simulated seawater, such as table salt, kosher salt, sea salt, and rock salt. Kosher salt will result in the least cloudy salt water, but any type of salt solution will decrease in cloudiness if left to sit for a few hours or, better yet, overnight.
How do you create a water current?
Put 2 drops of blue food coloring and 1-2 cups of ice into your cold water. Mix this all together until the ice melts a little. This ensures that the water is VERY cold which will help create your currents later. While you wait, with the help of a parent, boil about 4 cups of water.
Why was NASA created?
NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union’s October 4, 1957 launch of its first satellite, Sputnik I. The Sputnik launch caught Americans by surprise and sparked fears that the Soviets might also be capable of sending missiles with nuclear weapons from Europe to America.
When was NASA created?
July 29, 1958, United States
NASA/Founded
What method is used to measure ocean surface currents directly?
Many oceanographers also use radio antennas and high frequency Radio Detecting and Ranging systems (radar) to measure surface ocean currents.
What are 2 other ways that we can measure ocean currents today?
Traditionally there are two direct ways to measure currents: you can add something to the water and follow it as it moves (Lagrangian measurements), or you can place an instrument in a fixed position and measure how fast the current flows past it (Eulerian measurements).
How do you make artificial sea?
The average salinity of ocean water is 35 ppt.
- Weigh 35 g of salt.
- Add the salt to a beaker and add fresh water until the total mass is 1,000 g.
- Stir with a stirring rod until all the salt is dissolved.
What causes ocean currents on the surface?
Trade Winds. Trade winds are the winds that blow in the direction from east to west.
What are the four major ocean currents?
The gyre has a clockwise circular pattern and is formed by four prevailing ocean currents: the North Pacific Current to the north, the California Current to the east, the North Equatorial Current to the south, and the Kuroshio Current to the west.
How would surface currents be affected if Earth did not rotate?
Describe how surface currents would be affected if Earth did not rotate. Answers. If the Earth did not rotate and remained stationary, the atmosphere would circulate between the poles (high pressure areas) and the equator (a low pressure area) in a simple back-and-forth pattern. But because the Earth rotates, circulating air is deflected.
Are most surface currents caused by wind?
Surface ocean currents are mainly caused by wind. The winds that most affect the oceans’ currents are: The Westerlies (40-50 degree latitudes) blow west to east. The Trade Winds (20 degree latitudes) blow east to west.