In recent years phytoplankton have been investigated as a potential source of energy for humans. Researchers have therefore been interested in whether these organisms could be ‘farmed’ to provide food or fuel. In terms of biomass, Gross Primary Production (GPP) in phytoplankton living in a layer just below the surface of a typical ocean area is 4102 g m−2 yr−1. If you assume the energy value of phytoplankton is 6 kJ g−1, calculate the GPP in terms of kJ m−2 yr−1.

Question

In recent years phytoplankton have been investigated as a potential source of energy for humans. Researchers have therefore been interested in whether these organisms could be ‘farmed’ to provide food or fuel. In terms of biomass, Gross Primary Production (GPP) in phytoplankton living in a layer just below the surface of a typical ocean area is 4102 g m−2 yr−1. If you assume the energy value of phytoplankton is 6 kJ g−1, calculate the GPP in terms of kJ m−2 yr−1.
Thanks Beccy