By now you should have a better understanding of the importance of this tiny thing called phytoplankton. It is the bottom of the food chain, thus supporting life in the oceans. It is also a powerful force in the global climate. With all 12 images in a stack, it is a simple matter to compute the average phytoplankton productivity for the entire year. From the Stack pull-down window, select Average.
Many industrial processes produce toxic chemicals as a by-product.
If those chemicals are dumped into rivers, they eventually reach the sea. Discuss the possible consequences to phytoplankton production and the oceanic food chain in general. Suppose that dumping of some materials in the ocean is necessary. Extension Activities Create histograms of global phytoplankton pigment over a period of months. Compare the histograms and report your findings to your teacher.