What Are Ocean Deserts?
Program Scientist
NASA Headquarters
NASA Headquarters
Dr. Lindstrom has degrees in Earth and Planetary Sciences and Physical Oceanography from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Washington, respectively. His scientific interests include circulation of the ocean and air-sea exchange processes. Read more about Dr. Lindstrom here.
Webinar Clip
By using maps depicting ocean color, which tell us something about the plants growing in the ocean, Dr. Lindstrom is able to explain to viewers how and why seasonal changes in plant life at sea take place. We are able to make connections between deserts on land with "deserts" at sea, often identified by high salinity and low productivity. Full webinar: From Sailing Ships to Satellites: Studying Salinity Through a Sensor Web
Click here for a transcript of this clip (PDF, 38.0 KB). |
Resources
Applicable Science Standards
Analyzing and Interpreting Data. Scientific investigations produce data that must be analyzed in order to derive meaning. Because data patterns and trends are not always obvious, scientists use a range of tools - including tabulation, graphical interpretation, visualization, and statistical analysis - to identify the significant features and patterns in the data. Scientists identify sources of error in the investigations and calculate the degree of certainty in the results. Modern technology makes the collection of large data sets much easier, providing secondary sources for analysis.
Engaging in Argument From Evidence. Argumentation is the process by which evidence-based conclusions and solutions are reached. In science and engineering, reasoning and argument based on evidence are essential to identifying the best explanation for a natural phenomenon or the best solution to a design problem.