The Sea

The sea is a vast body of saltwater that covers about 71% of the Earth's surface. It plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate, providing a habitat for a wide variety of marine life, and serving as a source of food, energy, and transportation for humans.

Characteristics of the Sea

The sea is characterized by its saltiness, which is due to the presence of dissolved salts such as sodium chloride. It is also influenced by factors such as temperature, salinity, and depth, which vary from one part of the sea to another.

Formation of the Sea

The sea was formed over millions of years through processes such as tectonic activity, volcanic eruptions, and erosion. It is continually shaped by the movement of tectonic plates, the flow of ocean currents, and the impact of human activities.

Ecological Importance

The sea supports a diverse array of ecosystems, including coral reefs, kelp forests, and deep-sea trenches. It is home to countless species of fish, mammals, invertebrates, and plants, many of which are still being discovered and studied by scientists.

Human Interaction

Humans have relied on the sea for food, trade, and recreation for thousands of years. Today, it continues to be a vital source of seafood, minerals, and energy resources, as well as a major transportation route for global commerce.

Study Guide

Key Concepts

Definition and characteristics of the sea
Formation and geological processes shaping the sea
Ecological importance of the sea
Human interaction with the sea

Study Tips

Review the key features of the sea, including its salinity, temperature, and depth variations
Explore the geological processes that have contributed to the formation of the sea
Learn about the diverse ecosystems and marine life found in different regions of the sea
Examine the ways in which humans have utilized and impacted the sea throughout history

◂Earth Science Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Fossils II

The resources above cover the following skills:

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)

Earth’s Place in the Universe

Students who demonstrate understanding can:

Evaluate evidence of the past and current movements of continental and oceanic crust and the theory of plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.

Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth’s formation and early history.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)

Earth’s Place in the Universe

Students who demonstrate understanding can:

Evaluate evidence of the past and current movements of continental and oceanic crust and the theory of plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.

Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth’s formation and early history.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)

Earth’s Place in the Universe

Students who demonstrate understanding can:

Evaluate evidence of the past and current movements of continental and oceanic crust and the theory of plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.

Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth’s formation and early history.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (NGSS)

Earth’s Place in the Universe

Students who demonstrate understanding can:

Evaluate evidence of the past and current movements of continental and oceanic crust and the theory of plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.

Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth’s formation and early history.