Environmental Science
El Nino Analysis
Name__________________________________
Per _____ Date____________ Score_________
El Nino Analysis Activity
The analysis of sea-surface temperatures plotted on an ocean map can reveal patterns related to
general oceanographic conditions. El Nino is a recurring episode resulting from interaction between the
ocean and the atmosphere and has major impact on sea-surface temperatures over vast stretches of the
tropical Pacific. This activity compares sea-surface temperature patterns during a major El Nino
occurrence to a time more representative of long-term average conditions. The data employed were
acquired from temperature sensors carried aboard ships floating buoys and satellites, which were
provided by the Climate Analysis Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA).
1. Please go to this site about the differences between El Nino and La Nina on this
“youtube” video. Take notes below and then answer the questions below to
summarize the events of El Nino and La Nina.
A) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovDp1crqdOU&feature=related
B) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPA-KpldDVc
1. What is El Nino?
2. Do scientists know what is causing El Nino?
3. How often does El Nino occur?
4. Describe upwelling and its importance:
Environmental Science
El Nino Analysis
Name__________________________________
Per _____ Date____________ Score_________
6. What is the difference between El Nino and La Nina? Fill in the prompts
below:
Normal
Which areas of the
world do these
patterns originate?
Wind Direction
Water movement
How is upwelling a
factor in these 2
weather patterns?
Describe how living
organisms are
affected.
How is the economy
affected by these
weather patterns?
El Nino – Warmer Waters
La Nina-Colder Waters
Environmental Science
El Nino Analysis
Name__________________________________
Per _____ Date____________ Score_________
Overall
Weather impacts:
Overall Weather
Changes:
Ocean Upwelling