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Understanding Physical and Chemical Parameters of Ocean Water Using CTD Profiles

Overview

A focus of the PolarTREC Southern Ocean Diatoms expedition was to collect water samples and physical profile data using oceanographic technology. Oceanographers rely on the real-time data transferred from the water column to the ship-based computers using a CTD sensor. The CTD measures conductivity (salinity), temperature and depth

Students will undertake three different activities to help them identify a variety of Antarctic ice types.

Objective

To provide sensory experiences that will move students toward conceptual understanding of the types of sea ice found in Antarctica.

Preparation

It is suggested that teachers survey the Resources section before beginning this series of three classroom activities for background information