Abstract:
The SeaWiFS education site has 5 categories of information pertaining to global ocean processes. "Life in the Oceans" explains the role that satellites play in studying the ocean color and the necessity for long-term data collection. Similarly, "The Ocean Isn't Just Blue" explains how satellite instruments can capture differences in ocean hue to help scientists estimate the amount of
... phytoplankton as a guide to the health and chemistry of the ocean. The section labeled "Phytoplankton" describes how important this plant is in the general welfare of the earth. As the lowest member of the food chain, phytoplankton feed fish, produce oxygen, and remove carbon dioxide; all of which play a vital role the planet's ability to support life. "Carbon" is a section which describes atmospheric chemistry and how slight changes can affect the earth. The last section, "The Earth" contains more information about how planetary processes create and change the chemistry of the atmosphere.
Within each section, questions allow students to form educated responses based on the information presented. Also, students can design a greenhouse with the included project description and materials list provided.
[Summary provided by NASA.] 
