A Level Marine Science CAIE

This subject is broken down into 32 topics in 9 modules:

  1. Water 3 topics
  2. Earth Processes 3 topics
  3. Interactions in Marine Ecosystems 3 topics
  4. Classifications and Biodiversity 4 topics
  5. Examples of Marine Ecosystems 5 topics
  6. Physiology of Marine Organisms 4 topics
  7. Energy 3 topics
  8. Fisheries for the Future 3 topics
  9. Human Impacts on Marine Ecosystems 4 topics
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  • 9
    modules
  • 32
    topics
  • 12,185
    words of revision content
  • 1+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Marine Science

Water

Particle Theory and Bonding

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Particle Theory and Bonding

Particle Theory and Bonding in Water

Basic Concepts of Particle Theory

  • Particle theory states that all matter is made up of tiny particles which are in constant motion.
  • These particles vibrate, rotate and translate in line with increasing temperature.
  • Particles in matter attract each other; the strength of this attraction is key to understanding the structure and phases of water.

Particle Arrangement

  • In solid phase (ice), the water particles are neatly arranged in a crystalline structure where particles vibrate around fixed positions.
  • In the liquid phase (water), particles vibrate with more energy, move over each other and don't maintain a fixed pattern.
  • In the gas phase (vapour), particles move independently and rapidly as they have the most energy.

Bonding and Water Structure

  • Water molecules consist of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom - this is a covalent bond.
  • This forms a V-shaped molecule due to the 105-degree angle between the hydrogen atoms.
  • It also leads to a polarity in the water molecule, as the oxygen is more electronegative and therefore carries a partial negative charge while the hydrogen atoms carry a partial positive charge.

Hydrogen Bonding in Water

  • Due to the polar nature of water molecules, they can form weak bonds with each other known as hydrogen bonds.
  • These bonds are responsible for many of water's unique properties such as high boiling point, heat capacity, surface tension and ability to dissolve many substances.
  • The breaking and reforming of these bonds requires and releases heat energy, making water an excellent stabiliser of temperature (called a thermal buffer).
  • Hydrogen bonding means water is denser as a liquid than as a solid (ice), which is unique among most substances.

Remember, understanding the particle theory and bonding in water is key to understanding the marine phenomena observed in nature. The unique properties of water share a significant part in the existence and survival of life in a marine environment.

Course material for Marine Science, module Water, topic Particle Theory and Bonding

Marine Science

Examples of Marine Ecosystems

The Sandy Shore

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The Sandy Shore

Characteristics of the Sandy Shore

  • The Sandy Shore represents the coastal area characterised by sandy beaches between the high and low tide marks.
  • This habitat displays a continuous cycle of deposition and erosion due to wave action, making it highly dynamic in nature.
  • It can be divided into three zones: the supralittoral zone (above high tide line), intertidal zone (between high and low tide lines), and sublittoral zone (below low tide line).
  • Sandy shores also exhibit sharp temperature and salinity variations, especially in the intertidal zone due to changes in exposure and wave action.

Biodiversity in the Sandy Shore

  • In spite of harsh and fluctuating environmental conditions, sandy shores host a variety of organisms, primarily invertebrates.
  • Several species of crabs, clams, sand dollars, and different types of worms can be found in this zone. Bird species like plovers and sandpipers are frequent visitors.
  • Biodiversity varies across the different zones – the supralittoral zone usually has the least diversity, whereas the sublittoral zone with more stable conditions has the highest.

Adaptations to Life on Sandy Shores

  • Species found here display various adaptations for survival in sandy environments, such as burrowing abilities, physiological tolerance to changes in salinity, temperature, and moisture, and modified body features to prevent desiccation and overheating.
  • Some organisms exhibit camouflage to protect themselves from predators, while others like ghost crabs have developed speed for the same purpose.
  • Many organisms are nocturnal, coming out at night to forage while staying buried in the sand during the day to avoid heat and predators.

Role of the Sandy Shore in Marine Ecosystems

  • Sandy shores act as key nursery grounds for many marine species, providing a refuge area for larvae and juveniles due to their shallow waters and abundant food resources.
  • They play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, particularly in the breakdown and recycling of organic material brought in by the tides.
  • Sandy shores provide an important habitat for numerous bird species, playing a vital role in the avian food chain.
  • They also offer natural protection against coastal erosion and help maintain coastline stability.

Course material for Marine Science, module Examples of Marine Ecosystems, topic The Sandy Shore

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