Oceanographic exploration is divided into four branches: biological, chemical, geological, and physical. Each of these divisions requires specialized equipment that allows performing research and producing valuable findings. One of the most necessary tools used in biological oceanography is a high-speed digital camera. An example of such a device is the high-speed video camera Hyper Vision HPV-X. This instrument allows making photos and videos of high resolution and observing ultra-high-speed phenomena that were not possible to observe previously (“High-Speed Video Camera Hyper Vision HPV-X”). The camera is produced by Shimadzu, one of the world’s chief producers of analytical instrumentation.
The instrument operates similarly to ordinary digital cameras, but features offered by it allow receiving entirely different quality of images and videos. The device records speeds of up to ten million frames per second, its storage capacity is up to 256 frames, and its resolution is up to 100,000 pixels (“High-Speed Video Camera Hyper Vision HPV-X”). The instrument is invaluable in biological oceanography because it enables researchers to capture the life of organisms underwater.
Chemical oceanographers study the temperature and chemical composition of water as well as chemical reactions occurring in the sea and ocean floor. These scientists use a variety of instruments to collect water samples. One such device is the Niskin bottle. This tool is the new generation of water samplers based on the Nansen bottle (“Instrument: Niskin Bottle”). The device has a cylindrical shape and is non-metallic. The instrument has stoppers at both ends.
The Niskin bottle was invented in 1966, and the devices are produced at specialized factories. The tool is submerged in water on a hydro were. The bottle can be attached individually or deployed in Rosette systems of 12, 24, or 36 bottles. The instrument is highly significant due to giving scientists the possibility to collect samples for such measurements as plankton and pigments.
Physical oceanographers study waves, winds, and tides and their impact on the ocean, as well as seawater motions such as tsunamis and hurricanes. Apart from that, these scientists analyze the ocean-atmosphere relationship that affects climate and weather. One of the most important tools used by physical oceanographers is the floating instrument platform (FLIP). This instrument was created by Dr. Fred Spiess and Dr. Fred Fisher (“FLIP”).
The ship has a “355 feet long, spoon-shaped buoy” that can be flipped from “horizontal to a 90° vertical position” (“FLIP”). The transition takes almost half an hour, after which a 700 long-ton mass of water is steady, providing scientists with a stable platform for research. The vessel is highly important for oceanographic research since it allows conducting valuable research focused on geophysics, meteorology, and marine mammal studies.
Geological oceanographers investigate the ocean floor’s psychical features, as well as volcanoes and hydrothermal vents. One of the most useful instruments applied by these scientists is the bathymetric map. These maps are similar to topographic maps due to using lines and different colors to indicate the shape of land features (“Bathymetry”). Bathymetric maps are made by scientists, and they are used to study the depth of various parts of oceans and seas. The significance of the map is justified by its ability to help researchers learn about climate change and its impact on the environment. Additionally, maps are used to ensure the safe transportation of vessels.
Works Cited
“Bathymetry.” National Geographic, n.d. Web.
“FLIP (Floating Instrument Platform) Research Vessel.” Ship Technology, 2018. Web.
“High-Speed Video Camera Hyper Vision HPV-X.” Shimadzu. 2013. Web.
“Instrument: Niskin Bottle.” BCO-DMO, 2018. Web.