Final answer:
The Catholic church during the middle (dark) ages did not contribute to the expansion of Marine Science, as it did not support scientific exploration and marine technology during this period. Other factors like advancements in shipbuilding, research equipment design, and the needs of war and conflict played significant roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expansion of Marine Science was not significantly contributed to by the Catholic church during the middle (dark) ages. During this period, the church's positions and policies didn't actively support the advancement of scientific knowledge, especially in realms like marine exploration and technology. The other options listed - improvement of design of research equipment, war and conflict, and shipbuilding improvements including the use of iron and the steam engine - all contributed to the expansion of marine science in various ways.
Technological advancements in shipbuilding, such as the Vikings' longships and the use of iron and steam engines, made it possible for ships to travel further and withstand the harsh conditions of the sea, leading to maritime exploration. The design and improvement of research equipment allowed scientists to conduct more accurate and extensive studies of marine environments. Furthermore, war and conflict often necessitated advancements in technology and navigation, which inadvertently contributed to marine science through the development of military and naval strategies. Militarization of the sea, with navies and military weapons dominating trade routes, created a demand for more sophisticated knowledge of the marine world, giving rise to modern marine science.