Understanding Sea Surface Temperature (SST)

Study Notes

SST (Sea Surface Temperature)

Definition: SST refers to the temperature of the upper layer of the ocean, typically measured at a depth of about 1 millimeter to a few meters.
Importance:
- Influences weather and climate patterns (e.g., hurricane formation, El Niño).
- Affects marine ecosystems and ocean circulation.
- Impacts fisheries and global carbon cycles.
Measurement Methods:
- Buoys: Floating devices equipped with sensors.
- Satellites: Remote sensing technology using infrared and microwave sensors.
- Ship-based Measurements: Water samples taken during research cruises.
Variability:
- Daily, seasonal, and interannual variations influenced by factors such as solar radiation, wind patterns, and ocean currents.
- Significant events include El Niño and La Niña, which can lead to drastic SST changes.
Applications:
- Weather forecasting: SST data is critical for predicting storm intensity and formation.
- Climate research: Used in climate models to understand long-term trends and variability.
- Fisheries management: Helps determine fish migration patterns and breeding grounds.
Data Sources:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- European Space Agency (ESA)
- Various oceanographic research institutions.
Trends:
- Increasing SST observed due to global warming.
- Altered marine habitats and species distribution as a result of temperature changes.
Global Impact:
- Higher SST linked to increased frequency and intensity of tropical storms.
- Influences global carbon uptake by the oceans, affecting climate change mitigation efforts.

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Overview

SST is the temperature of the upper ocean layer, generally measured at a depth of 1 millimeter to several meters.

Importance of SST

Crucial for weather and climate, impacting phenomena like hurricane development and El Niño events.
Affects marine ecosystems, ocean circulation, and the global carbon cycle.
Vital for the functioning and management of fisheries worldwide.

Measurement Methods

Buoys: Utilize sensors to monitor ocean temperatures from the surface.
Satellites: Employ infrared and microwave sensors for remote sensing of SST.
Ship-based Measurements: Collect water samples during research voyages for temperature analysis.

SST Variability

Experiences daily, seasonal, and interannual changes driven by solar radiation, wind patterns, and ocean currents.
Notable phenomena like El Niño and La Niña cause significant fluctuations in SST.

Applications of SST Data

Weather Forecasting: Essential for predicting the formation and intensity of storms.
Climate Research: Integral to climate models focusing on long-term climate trends and variability.
Fisheries Management: Informs on fish migration and breeding patterns, critical for sustainable fishing practices.

Data Sources for SST

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
European Space Agency (ESA)
Various oceanographic research institutions generate and provide SST data.

Trends in SST

Rising SST levels noted as a consequence of global warming.
Changes in temperature are reshaping marine habitats and influencing species distribution across oceans.

Global Impact of SST

Increased SST is associated with more frequent and severe tropical storms.
Higher temperatures in the oceans are affecting global carbon absorption, complicating climate change mitigation strategies.

Description

This quiz explores the definition, importance, and measurement methods of Sea Surface Temperature (SST). Learn about its role in climate patterns, marine ecosystems, and the tools used to measure its variability. Test your knowledge on how SST affects weather forecasting and global carbon cycles.