• Phytoplankton: These tiny plants contain chlorophyll, which is green. The more phytoplankton present, the greener the water appears.
• Clear Water: When there are fewer phytoplankton, the water appears blue because it reflects the sky and absorbs other colors.
2. How do scientists measure these changes?
• Satellites: They use satellites to observe the light reflected off the ocean. Different colors of light are absorbed and scattered by water and its contents differently.
• Chlorophyll Levels: By measuring the light wavelengths, scientists can estimate the amount of chlorophyll, and thus the amount of phytoplankton.
3. Why are some areas turning greener?
• Climate Change: Warmer ocean temperatures can cause more phytoplankton to grow in certain areas, making the water appear greener.
4. Why are some areas turning bluer?
• Reduced Phytoplankton: In some regions, the conditions may become less favorable for phytoplankton, reducing their numbers and making the water bluer.
5. Is the change in color visible to the naked eye?
• Not Usually: These changes are often too subtle to see without specialized equipment. Scientists use satellites to detect these small shifts in color.
6. What are the implications of these color changes?
• Ecosystem Impact: Changes in phytoplankton populations can affect the entire marine food web.
• Climate Feedback: Phytoplankton help absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, so changes in their populations can impact climate regulation.
Why is this important?
Understanding these changes helps scientists track the health of our oceans and predict how marine ecosystems might respond to climate change. This knowledge is crucial for protecting marine life and managing resources effectively.
SRIRAM’s
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
