Physical Data Tidepools to Telecommunications© @ 2000-4

The marine plants and animals found around docks and pilings depend on the surrounding water for things like nutrients, oxygen, food particles, and locomotion. The temperature and salinity of the water affect their "physiology" or body processes. Water clarity determines how far sunlight will penetrate. Oceanographers have developed techniques to analyze these physical parameters with fine precision, but in our study we examine the water environment using a few simple techniques.

We are recording the following types of physical data. Water temperature is measured with a standard (Celsius scale) thermometer. Salinity is determined by use of an optical refractometer or conductivity meter, and is recorded in parts per thousand (fresh water is essentially zero and open ocean water is about 34 ppt). Dissolved oxygen is calculated by chemical titration using a simplified Hach kit. Water turbidity is measured by lowering a white secchi disk and recording the depth at which it can no longer be seen. Tide height is measured from a calibrated staff on the dock, or can be estimated from tide table predictions.

FHL Physical Data

MBL Physical Data

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