70 percent of the earth is covered with oceans.
The Oceanography merit badge was introduced to boy scouting in 1964. Its requirements were revised in 2004. The circular badge that is awarded for successful completion of the badge's requirements features a gold trident on a white background with blue waves. The nine requirements of the badge consist of theoretical study and physical activities related to promoting a better understanding of the world's ocean systems, which cover 70 percent of the planet. Scouts living near, or having easy access to, coastal waters would be good candidates to undertake this badge.
Oceanography
The badge requires a solid knowledge of the four branches of oceanography and requires explanations and drawings of specific areas such as waves, tidal systems and underwater topography. It also requires the scout to make models including a volcanic island and a wave generator. To successfully complete the badge, the scout is also required to visit an oceanographic institute or research ship.
Physical Oceanography
Physical Oceanography is the study of the physical processes in the ocean, and the interaction of the ocean with the atmosphere. Scouts will study waves, surf, tides and currents and gain an understanding of the heat budget of the ocean, including solar heating, evaporation and the transport of heat and salt by currents. Understanding physical oceanography helps in understanding and predicting phenomena such as tsunamis.
Biological Oceanography
Biological Oceanography studies the interactions of marine organisms with one another, and with their physical and chemical environment. To demonstrate understanding of this, the scout is required to describe the Darwinian theory of coral reef formation with a series of models of a volcanic island. Once pictures of volcanic islands and coral reefs have been studied, clay can be used to form a series of models on small pieces of plyboard, which are readily available at craft stores. Once dried, the clay models can be painted with acrylic paints.
Geological Oceanography
Geological Oceanography is the study of the geology of the land covered by water. Studies will include the topography (shape) of ocean floors, sediment, rock structures and processes such as tectonics. To demonstrate understanding, the scout is required to draw a cross section of underwater topography. The Museum of Science, Boston has a useful section on its website called "Oceans Alive!" Visiting this website will help in understanding ocean floors and drawing an accurate cross section.
Chemical Oceanography
Chemical Oceanography is the study of chemical processes in the ocean. It includes the study of salinity and the role of oceans in global chemical balances. Scouts will also learn the influence on industrial and agricultural chemicals carried into oceans by rivers. They will also gain an understanding the use of chemical isotopes for studying oceanic processes and dates.
Wave Generator
A simple wave generator can be made by filling a waterproof box, ideally a small fish tank, with water. Place items to represent the jetties and other structures into the tank. Float a tennis ball, or similarly sized object in the tank and push it up and down to make waves.
Tags: Oceanography study, Biological Oceanography, Chemical Oceanography, cross section, demonstrate understanding
