Final answer:
The correct answer is option a. Ocean science contributes to farming conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
People in the area of Norman may be chiefly concerned with studying oceanic conditions because oceanic conditions relate to weather patterns that can significantly affect local and regional climates. For instance, changes in ocean temperatures can influence weather events like storms, hurricanes, and droughts. An understanding of meteorology and climatology, which involves analyzing and predicting atmospheric phenomena, can potentially save lives and have economic benefits.
For example, accurate weather predictions can aid farmers in selecting the best planting and harvesting times and can inform commercial fishing operations about the optimal conditions for a successful season, as was the case during the summer of 2015 off the California coast, where excellent weather conditions contributed to a productive salmon fishing season.
Moreover, the study of ocean science has broader implications, such as contributing to the knowledge of global climate change effects like rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events. This knowledge is crucial for preparing for and mitigating the impacts of these events, as well as for understanding and managing resources sustainably. Additionally, remote sensing technology can assist in determining what people do for a living by analyzing geographical patterns and identifying regions where certain economic activities are predominant.