Question

A researcher is analyzing a sample of ocean water that is particularly rich in nutrients and colder than the other samples of water collected. Based on this information, from which area of the ocean was the water probably taken?

A.
the beginning of an estuary at the mouth of a strong river
B.
an area with high salinity, where very few organisms can survive
C.
near the bottom of the ocean, close to the sea floor
D.
near the ocean’s surface, where atmospheric carbon is absorbed

Answer 1

The ocean water sample in question, being nutrient-rich and colder, was probably taken from near the bottom of the ocean, close to the sea floor, from the benthic realm.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that the sample of ocean water is rich in nutrients and colder than other samples, it is likely that this sample came from near the bottom of the ocean, close to the sea floor (Option C). Samples from the benthic realm, the deepwater region beyond the continental shelf, are nutrient-rich due to decaying organisms that fall from the upper layers of the ocean. The bottom of the benthic realm is comprised of sand, silt, and these dead organisms, which through decomposition, release nutrients back into the water. Additionally, the temperature near the bottom of the ocean tends to be colder than that of the surface water, in line with the details provided about the sample.

Answer 2

the beginning of an estruary