Which ocean zone is characterized by little to no sunlight?

Which ocean zone is characterized by little to no sunlight?

• A. Aphotic Zone
• B. Photic Zone
• C. Silt
• D. Siliceous Ooze

Answer: (A)

Light penetration with depth defines ocean zones. The sunlit layer where enough light reaches for photosynthesis is the photic zone. Beneath that, the aphotic zone receives little to no light, so photosynthesis can’t occur and most organisms rely on organic matter produced in upper layers or other energy sources. Sediments like silt and siliceous ooze are not depth zones; they describe deposits on the seafloor, not light levels.

Light penetration with depth defines ocean zones. The sunlit layer where enough light reaches for photosynthesis is the photic zone. Beneath that, the aphotic zone receives little to no light, so photosynthesis can’t occur and most organisms rely on organic matter produced in upper layers or other energy sources. Sediments like silt and siliceous ooze are not depth zones; they describe deposits on the seafloor, not light levels.