Why is it that satellites, using wavelength reflectance technology, detect variable levels of productivity across Earth's oceans, rather than an increase toward the equator?
A) Temperatures at the equator often exceed those which are optimal for primary production.
B) Light at the equator is too constant and direct.
C) NPP in Earth's open oceans could differ due to variability in depth, the presence of coral reefs, or by ocean currents.
D) Satellites detect differences by measuring the amount of water vapor emitted by transpiring producers, and this is a variable measurement in the oceans.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

NPP (net primary productivity) can differ in Earth's open oceans due to various factors such as variability in depth, the presence of coral reefs or ocean currents. Therefore, satellites using wavelength reflectance technology detect variable levels of productivity across Earth's oceans rather than an increase toward the equator. Temperature and light intensity also play a role, but these factors alone do not account for the variability in NPP. The fourth choice is incorrect because satellites do not measure water vapor emission by transpiring producers.

Why Is It That Satellites, Using Wavelength Reflectance Technology, Detect