Question

analysis of data

1. describe the general shape of the temperature - depth curve:

a) at low latitudes
b) at mid latitudes in winter
c) at mid latitudes in summer
d) at high latitudes

1. label the three temperature layers for each location: surface layer, thermocline, deep and bottom layer. on graph
2. which two locations indicated by your graphs might require the use of a wetsuit (or drysuit) to prevent hypothermia when swimming in the ocean? why?
3. approximately where (at what depth) is the primary thermocline:

a) at low latitudes
b) at mid latitudes in winter
c) at mid latitudes in summer
d) at high latitudes

Explanation:

1. a) Low latitudes: The temperature - depth curve at low latitudes typically shows a warm surface layer, a well - defined thermocline where temperature drops rapidly with depth, and a cold deep and bottom layer.

• b) Mid - latitudes in winter: The surface layer is cooler due to colder air temperatures. The thermocline is less pronounced compared to summer, and the deep and bottom layers are cold.
• c) Mid - latitudes in summer: There is a warm surface layer heated by the sun. A distinct thermocline separates the warm surface from the cold deep and bottom layers.
• d) High latitudes: The surface layer is cold, and there is little to no well - defined thermocline as the water column is relatively uniformly cold, with the deep and bottom layers being only slightly colder.

1. On graph: For each location, label the uppermost layer as the Surface Layer (where temperature is most affected by the atmosphere), the layer with a rapid temperature change as the Thermocline, and the lower, colder layers as the Deep and Bottom Layer.
2. Locations for wetsuits/drysuits: High latitudes and mid - latitudes in winter. In high latitudes, the water is cold throughout the water column due to the low solar input. In mid - latitudes in winter, the surface water is cold from the cold air temperatures, and swimming without proper protection can lead to hypothermia.
3. Depth of primary thermocline:

• a) Low latitudes: Usually between 100 - 1000 meters.
• b) Mid - latitudes in winter: May be around 50 - 200 meters or less distinct.
• c) Mid - latitudes in summer: Around 100 - 500 meters.
• d) High latitudes: May be very shallow or non - existent, but if present, less than 50 meters.

Answer:

1.

• a) Warm surface layer, distinct thermocline, cold deep and bottom layer.
• b) Cooler surface layer, less pronounced thermocline, cold deep and bottom layer.
• c) Warm surface layer, distinct thermocline, cold deep and bottom layer.
• d) Cold surface layer, little to no distinct thermocline, cold deep and bottom layer.

1. Label on graph as described above.
2. High latitudes and mid - latitudes in winter. Reason: Cold water temperatures can cause hypothermia.

4.

• a) 100 - 1000 meters.
• b) 50 - 200 meters or less distinct.
• c) 100 - 500 meters.
• d) Less than 50 meters or non - existent.