In what ways are coastal wetlands ecologically important?
a) they filter freshwater and runoff before it enters the ocean
b) they are highly productive ecosystems with a great diversity of plants and animals
c) they act as a barrier to droughts and floods by absorbing water during heavy rains and releasing it during dry periods
d) they protect shorelines from erosion by dissipating wave energy
e) All of the above
Question 2
Black smokers emit water in excess of 350 degrees Celsius, but release water rather than steam. Why is this so? (Water normally turns to steam at 100 degrees Celsius).
a) The water surrounding the smokers cools down the emitted water
b) The boiling point of water is much higher where black smokers occur due to higher pressure
c) The benthic life associated with black smokers prohibits the water from vaporizing
d) None of the above