1. Ways of Measuring the Ocean Floor

2. Ways of measuring the ocean floor  Knowing the shape and depth of the ocean floor are very important for navigation and understanding ocean ecosystems.  There are several ways to measure position and depth of the ocean floor.

3. 1. Latitude & Longitude  Used to give a reference point to a position on Earth. Ex. Halifax is 44 o N and 63 o W

4. 2. Sounding Line  The original way to measure depth.  A rope with a weight is dropped down to the ocean floor.  The length of the rope needed to reach the bottom was measured.

5. 3. 3. Bathymetry  Using sonar (sound wave) measurements to make a picture of the ocean floor.  Sound waves are sent out. The amount of time they take to return determines depth.  A bathymetric profile shows a picture of the shape of an ocean floor.

6. 4. Topography  Creating a map of the ocean floor.  Usually uses bathymetric profiles to make these maps.