Users of this interactive world atlas can navigate to the desired continent or country and produce maps in either GIF or PDF formats, which are suitable for printing or copying. The atlas is produced by National Geographic Magazine's "Xpeditions" program, an endeavor to introduce geography into the classroom. Full description.

This page consists of two maps of the world, showing how earthquakes define the boundaries of tectonic plates. Volcanoes are also distributed at plate boundaries (the "Ring of Fire" in the Pacific) and at oceanic ridges. It is part of the U.S. Geological Survey's Cascades Volcano Observatory website, which features written material, images, maps, and links to related topics. Full description.

This illustration from an online textbook features a map showing the major ocean currents of the world. A set of links provides access to a study guide with glossary and test questions, additional readings, and links to related sites. Full description.

In this activity, students create a model ocean over which "wind" will be blown, and observe the relationship between the wind and the resulting ocean surface currents. The activity reinforces the concept that surface currents in the ocean are mostly caused by wind. A materials list and instructions are provided, and links to a glossary are embedded in the text. Full description.

Visitors can read about the characteristics of volcanism on Mars and how it differs from volcanism on our own Moon. A map is provided to show the locations of various volcanic structures. Links to related topics are also included. Full description.

Users can read about the characteristics of volcanic activity on the Moon and how it differs from volcanism on Earth. A lunar map accompanies the text, showing the prominent mare, or "seas", which are actually volcanic plains. Links to related topics are included. Full description.

The map and narrative presented here explain how "low-tech" methods of scientific observation can be used to discern ocean current patterns. 60,000 Nike shoes lost overboard from a storm-tossed cargo ship in the northeastern Pacific in May 1990 began to wash ashore at times and places that coincided with the known surface current in the North Pacific Ocean, which moves in a large slow circle called ... Full description.

This site consists of a digital total sediment thickness map and database for the world's oceans and marginal seas. The data are derived from previously published maps, ocean drilling results (Ocean Drilling Program and Deep Sea Drilling Project), and seismic reflection profiles (National Geophysical Data Center archives and Geological/Geophysical Atlas of the Pacific). Features include a JPEG image ... Full description.

This document explores the physical and chemical component of the Maryland Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Monitoring Program. Users can study how this program emphasizes water quality as a function of nutrient levels, dissolved oxygen, and water clarity. An interactive map allows the user to select a river basin and view status and trends for analyzed water quality parameters. Full description.

Users may learn about ocean currents and the role the oceans play in storing heat and influencing global climate. A special introductory section for teachers provides background information and links to classroom activities using the constructivist approach that demonstrate the mechanisms that drive the Gulf Stream, the Mediterranean Outflow, and the Great Ocean Conveyor Belt. For students, an interactive ... Full description.