Q1/3 W3 Light Zones

Click the plus sign to learn about Greek root words that describe the amount of light in the water

Click the plus sign to learn about why sunlight is important for the ocean

Click the plus sign to learn about the 3 major light zones

Root Words

Many ocean zone names come from Greek roots that describe the amount of light in the water.

Light Zones

Click the plus signs to learn about each zone.

Photosynthesis

Sunlight is important because it allows for photosynthesis, the process by which ocean producers like algae, phytoplankton, and some bacteria use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to make food (glucose) and release oxygen. Not all parts of the ocean receive the same amount of sunlight. Some areas get plenty of light, while deeper regions receive so little that photosynthesis cannot occur.