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Ocean_Circulation Lab

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OC 201e – Introduction to Oceanography 1 of 7 Lab 3 – Density, mixing and stratification In this lab you will explore on a small scale the influence of temperature, salinity and mixing on seaw ... ater stratification. These same processes operate in the ocean over much larger scales and have far-ranging physical, chemical and biological implications. Spring 2020: I realize that some of you may not be able to get to the grocery store for the supplies need for this lab. Therefore, I will provide you with pictures and videos of the activities described below. They can be found on my science Instagram account @oceans_past You will need to log in with either a Facebook or Instagram account. Now, if you can get the supplies please try these activities/experiments. There is no pressure now so it should be fun, especially if you involve the people you live with. HINTS: 1. Density is controlled by temperature and salinity. Cold salty water is more dense than warm, fresh water. 2. A stable water column (i.e., stable stratification) is less dense water over more dense water. Lab Supplies: Table salt (lots), food coloring/dye, eyedropper, spoon, 2 large clear water glasses, and ice cubes made from both plain and dyed freshwater. Lab Set-up: Make your own saltwater by mixing salt into water – you don’t need to be delicate with this because the saltier it is the better it will perform in the lab. Approximately 2 tablespoons of salt in 1 liter of water will give you “typical” seawater (i.e., a salinity of 35). You will need at least 2 liters of saltwater, but I suggest making extra. Also, for some of the experiments you require cold salt water (the colder the better). I would place at least 1 liter of salt water in the freezer for about 20 minutes before you try Activity 4. Activity 1: Salt water with dye (6 pts) In this activity, you will explore the role of mixing on water mass interaction. Materials: Freshwater at room temperature, cold saltwater and food dye Preparation: Fill a large glass with the room temperature freshwater. In a separate container add food dye to a small amount of cold saltwater. Part 1 – Answer part “i” below before doing the following: Using an eyedropper, drop a single drop of dyed saltwater into the freshwater at a time. Try from very near the surface so that the drop does not enter the water going fast. Next, try from higher up. Observe the mixing [Show More]

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