Download The Southern Ocean – a global carbon sink

The Southern Ocean – a global carbon sink
Level 1 Achievement Standard 90953 Version 3
Science 1.14: Demonstrate understanding of carbon cycling
Credits: 4
Southern Ocean
Introduction
The southern ocean to the south of New Zealand plays an important role in carbon cycling. Carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere enters the ocean where it can stay for short or long periods of time and it can also
be released from the ocean back into the atmosphere.
In this activity you will need to demonstrate your understanding of the carbon cycle. You will be assessed
on how well you explain the processes and links between:
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the removal of carbon from the atmosphere
the storage of carbon in the ocean
the addition of carbon into the atmosphere
Your Task
A group of scientists are interested in building a climate change research station on the Auckland Islands.
These are a group of islands in the middle of the southern ocean to the south of New Zealand. To do this
they need to gain funding from businesses and government organisations.
You are required to create a resource to be used when approaching organisations for donations. The
resource will need to explain the importance of the southern ocean in the cycling of carbon and should
include:
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how carbon is removed from the atmosphere in the southern ocean
how carbon is stored in the southern ocean and the length of time it may be stored
how carbon is added to the atmosphere from the southern ocean
clearly explain any links between each of the processes
The resource could be presented as a short written report, a pamphlet, poster, powerpoint or other type
of resource agreed upon between you and your teacher.
Conditions
You will be given two hours of class time to complete the assessment. This is a closed book assessment
so you will not have access to your class notes or other resources.