Geology Questions

Overview

1. A diverse workforce fosters innovative ideas and new discoveries, but many scientific fields lack strong representation from all groups of people. Explore diversity in this field by researching the historical and current representation of minorities in oceanography, marine science, and other ocean-related career fields. In what ways have under-represented populations played a role in major ocean discoveries? We must find ways for our oceanographic workforce to match our nation's demographics - support this statement with a discussion of ideas for increasing diversity in oceanographic studies, educational opportunities, and careers.
   • In recent news we have heard of sand from the Saharan Desert making its way across the Atlantic, up through the Gulf of Mexico, and into the inland US. How do we study such events and how do we know this material is coming from Africa? What is the history of Saharan Sand making its way across the Atlantic? What are the conditions that allow such movement? Does this atmospheric phenomena have effects on the ocean? And, what are the inland effects to people, land, etc.? Finally, discuss the future of such events - are they a one-time event, or should we expect these to continue.
   • Rare earth elements and manganese modules have been identified as valuable resources from the ocean floor. Describe these two resources, how they form, where they could be found on the seafloor, and discuss the everyday products that are made from them. Then, discuss the feasibility of mining the seafloor. What technological issues would there be for developing a mining operation on the seafloor? What environmental, economic, and societal factors would need to be considered to mine these minerals? Do you think it is in our best interest to mine the seafloor for resources? Support your argument with researched information and scientific data.
   • Taal volcano, located in the Philippines, erupted on January 20, 2020 spewing ash and prompting tsunami warnings.  Discuss the formation and continued volcanism of Taal volcano, including the relationship of its activity to plate tectonics. Include evidence from at least one scientific discussion of the area and its history of volcanic activity. Then, discuss the causes and effects of the January eruption. Discuss why this particular volcano has an associated tsunami risk. Finally, discuss the future of this volcano - what are its impending hazards? Can anything be done to prevent future eruptions here, and in other locations around the world? Why or why not?
   • The last several hurricane seasons have included major Category 5 hurricanes; are these devastating events increasing in frequency? Discuss hurricane formation and development, and identify the causes of very large hurricanes. Choose a specific Category 5 hurricane of the past 5-7 years and outline its development, movement, landfall, and damage. Then, provide scientific evidence to support or refute the claim that high-intensity hurricanes are increasing in frequency. Can we do anything to minimize, slow, or stop these hurricanes? Finally, discuss how coastlines and citizens might prepare for such large natural disasters, citing specific examples from coastal locations.
   • El Nino / La Nina (ENSO) cycles have far reaching effects, and future warming of the Earth may change these cycles. What happens in the equatorial Pacific during ENSO cycles? How often do they occur? Should we be concerned here in the midwest US about present and future ENSO cycles? What are the worldwide effects of ENSO cycles? What are the current conditions in the Pacific relative to ENSO? What are the outlooks for the upcoming winter, spring, and summer in the US for ENSO related impacts? Looking to the future, how might climate change and global warming impact ENSO events and cycles? Cite specific data and examples. 
   • Wave energy has been put forth as a way to harness energy for electrical demands and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Do you think wave energy is a viable solution to reducing our usage of fossil fuels? Identify a specific location that has high wave power potential AND is near a major population center - what would it take to create  (think, infrastructure) a wave energy system for this location? What are some negative consequences of wave energy, and how do you think those can be overcome? Support your answer with specific examples and data from your research.
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