Seafloor Explorer Lab/Cruise

Your Experience

Students study the dynamic effects of plate tectonics through the investigation of sea floor geology, sediment cores, microfossils, underwater seismology and more. The sea floor is a good place to study the history of the planet because it undergoes fewer disturbances than land. Students will examine the composition of layers in a core sample, working as a team to unlock the mysteries of Earth’s climatic and tectonic past. The scientific processes of acquiring seismic data on land and on the sea floor will be discussed. Students will also discuss underwater archeology and determine the best method for retrieving artifacts from the seafloor. Aboard the R/V Sea Explorer, students get a chance to take part in scientific sampling and exploration. Students will survey the sea floor by using a side scan sonar, collect a sediment core, and learn about hydrothermal vents.