earth-science

Oceanography & Marine Science

Ocean currents, tidal forces, thermohaline circulation, wave dynamics, and coral bleaching — the physics and biology of Earth's vast oceans.

ocean currentstidesthermohalinewavescoral bleachingmarine science

The ocean covers 71% of Earth's surface and drives global climate, weather patterns, and biodiversity. Beneath the waves, a complex system of currents, tides, and thermal gradients moves heat from the equator to the poles, regulates atmospheric CO₂, and sustains marine ecosystems from coral reefs to the deep abyss.

These simulations let you explore the forces that shape our oceans. Visualize global circulation patterns, watch the Moon pull tidal bulges across the planet, trace the thermohaline conveyor belt, model wave dispersion across open water, and observe how rising temperatures trigger coral bleaching events that threaten reef ecosystems worldwide.

5 interactive simulations

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Coral Bleaching & Temperature Stress Simulator

Model coral bleaching events — adjust sea surface temperature, duration, and recovery time to see threshold effects on reef health

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Global Ocean Circulation Patterns

Visualize global ocean currents driven by wind, Coriolis force, and temperature gradients — watch gyres form and heat move from equator to poles

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Thermohaline Conveyor Belt Simulator

Trace the global thermohaline circulation — watch dense cold water sink in the North Atlantic and travel the ocean floor for a thousand-year journey

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Lunar Tidal Forces & Cycles

Visualize how the Moon's gravity creates tidal bulges on Earth — explore spring tides, neap tides, and the 12.42-hour tidal cycle

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Ocean Wave Dynamics & Dispersion

Model ocean wave propagation — adjust wind speed, fetch, and depth to see how waves form, grow, disperse, and break approaching shore