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Component 2: Global Systems and Global Governance
Quick questions on Oceans as a global commons - Eduqas A-Level Geography
4short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What are physical importance of the oceans?Show answer
The oceans are central to how the planet works. They regulate climate by storing and redistributing heat through ocean currents (including the global thermohaline circulation), moderating temperatures and driving weather, and by absorbing a large share of human carbon dioxide and excess heat. They are central to biogeochemical cycles: the carbon, water and nutrient cycles all run through the oceans, and marine phytoplankton produce a large share of the world's oxygen while powering the biological carbon pump. They also hold enormous biodiversity, from coral reefs to deep-sea ecosystems, underpinning marine food webs.
What are human importance of the oceans?Show answer
Human dependence on the oceans is profound and growing. Shipping carries the overwhelming majority of global trade, passing through strategic chokepoints (the Strait of Malacca, the Suez and Panama canals, the Strait of Hormuz) whose disruption can threaten the world economy. Fisheries are a critical food source and livelihood, especially in lower-income coastal nations. The oceans supply energy and, increasingly, are eyed for deep-sea mining of metals.
What is q1?Show answer
Define a global commons and give one example. [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
Explain the tragedy of the commons in relation to the oceans. [3 marks]
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