Reflection, Refraction, and Color

Visible wavelengths of light are collected by marine plants bearing chlorophyll which make their own food using the process of photosynthesis.  There are three different zones that are defined by the amount of sunlight they receive.


Euphotic Zone: 
-70% of the uppermost, sunlit layer participates in photosynthesis
-extends to a depth of 330 feet
Disphotic Zone:
-between 330ft. and 3,300ft
-dimly lit
-some animals able to survive; no plants
-not enough light for photosynthesis
Aphotic Zone:
-no light penetrates at all
-over 90% of the entire ocean area on earth
-depths more than 3,300ft


-long wavelengths of the light spectrum; red, yellow, and orange—can penetrate to about 49, 98, and 164ft.
-short wavelengths of the light spectrum; violet, blue and green—can penetrate to the lower limits of the euphotic zone
-Blue penetrates the deepest, which is why deep, clear ocean water and some tropical water look blue
- clearer waters have fewer particles to affect the transmission of light
-Water in shallow coastal areas contain a greater amount of particles that absorb light wavelengths differently, which is why sea water close to shore may appear more green or brown