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Deep Sea Vents

The deep oceans are Earth's last undiscovered frontier. And the deep sea vent communities are weird enough to convince your students that this is one science topic well worth studying! These resources will help your students make real-world connections to biology, geology, and chemistry. They'll also master many important science skills, including skills in research (on and off the Web), observation, description, and analysis.

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Is it Alive?

Despite extreme temperatures and the absence of sunlight, you can find a variety of life on the ocean floor. Take a look at the amazing organisms that thrive in this unlikely environment.

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Classroom Activity

Underwater Plume

With the help of three friends, you can create your own mini underwater geyser. All you'll need is a soda bottle, a baby food jar, aluminum foil, food coloring, and a few more household supplies.

Reference List

Deep Sea Vents Reading List

From the discovery of the Titanic to the undersea riches of black smokers, a number of magazine articles have taken a close look at deep sea vents. Get a guide to the best deep sea reads.

Reference List

Deep Sea Vents Web List

Want to dive deeper into the study of deep sea vents? Tour an active submarine volcano, ride the "Global Conveyor Belt for Heat," listen in to sounds of the deep, and more with this site-seeing list.