Using two different data portals, students will learn and then analyze past, present, and future ocean pH values impacted by global CO2 levels.
Students will explore how scientists use data to map changing levels of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect on ocean pH levels. Students will interpret data of past pH levels in the ocean and future levels of ocean pH using CO2 level predictions gathering data from a NOAA website. Students will then compare their results to current pH values from GO-BGC float data. After analyzing these data sets, students will understand how changes in CO2 levels in the atmosphere affect ocean pH levels.

Topics

Authors

Mary Cahill

Teacher Resources

Student Resources

Next Generation Science Standards

Crosscutting Concepts
  • Systems and system models
  • Stability and change 
Core Ideas
  • LS2.B: Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems
  • ESS2.D: Weather and Climate
  • ESS3.D: Global Climate Change
Practices
  • Asking Questions and Defining Problems
  • Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Ocean Literacy Fundamental Concepts

  • 3: The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.