Abstract

In this talk I will show a few examples of simple mathematical models for life in the ocean and I will discuss how the ocean might control the fate of our planet. Starting on the small scales, microscopic marine algae called phytoplankton are responsible for about half of the global primary production (photosynthesis). Phytoplankton grow in dramatic ‘blooms’, the timing of which are dictated by fluid dynamics in the upper ocean. I will discuss how fluid dynamics influences the timing of seasonal phytoplankton blooms and the rate at which phytoplankton cells sink to the deep ocean. Both processes have a major impact on the global carbon cycle. I will end by discussing strategies for enhancing the ocean’s uptake and storage of carbon and whether these strategies might help reduce atmospheric CO2 concentrations when coupled with drastic emissions reductions.