This site had a fantastic “amphitheater of chemosynthetic life.” Here we saw bathymodiolus mussels, methane hydrate or ice, and ice worms. There were also a number of sea urchins, sea stars, and fish in this area. Most impressive about this ledge was large accumulation of hydrates under the ledge as well as the large collection of mussels hanging upside down and a group of mussels that hung down off the ledge.

Student Investigation: Fire Ice in the Deep Sea

A gas hydrate is an ice-like substance that forms in deep-sea sediments when low-density gas, like methane, ethane, or carbon dioxide, combines but does not chemically bond with water and freezes into a solid under low temperature and moderate pressure conditions. In this investigation, students analyze chemical structures and make observations in order to develop and use a model to explain the phenomenon: How does methane hydrate form on and below the seafloor?

Supporting Images/Videos:

Methane Hydrate Formation Demonstration Video

Supporting Images/Videos:

Teachers & Educators:

Did you know you can save educational resources for upcoming classes by creating an Educator Account?

Get started today