B.5.4 Visualizing Ocean and Atmospheric Systems (Skills)
Graphical Representation of Data
Let's dive into how we visualize and understand the complex interactions between our oceans and atmosphere! This is where we turn complicated data into visual stories that make sense.
Maps and Models
Ocean Current Patterns and Conveyor Belts
![Diagram showing the global ocean conveyor belt with red arrows for warm surface currents and blue arrows for cold deep currents. Major circulation patterns should be clearly labeled.]
CalloutThe global ocean conveyor belt is best visualized through:
- Color-coded arrows (red for warm, blue for cold currents)
- Depth indicators
- Temperature gradients
- Salinity measurements
- The Gulf Stream as a thick red arrow moving up the East Coast of North America
- Deep blue arrows showing cold water sinking near Greenland
- Purple arrows indicating mixing zones where currents meet
ENSO Cycle Visualization
ENSO patterns are typically shown through:
- Sea Surface Temperature (SST) anomaly maps
- Walker circulation diagrams
- Time series graphs
Key visualization elements include:
- Temperature anomaly color scales (usually blue for cooler, red for warmer)
- Pressure system indicators
- Wind direction arrows
- Precipitation patterns
Coastal Erosion and Hydrograph Visualization
Hydrographs should display:
- Discharge rates over time
- Peak flow periods
- Base flow levels
- Storm surge impacts
Coastal erosion models typically include:
- Cross-sectional diagrams
- Time-lapse representations
