What’s the difference between zooplankton and phytoplankton?

On Saturday, students from Friday Harbor High School will answer this and other challenging questions about the biology, chemistry, economics, geology, history and physics of the ocean at Orca Bowl ‘09.

Held on the University of Washington’s Seattle campus, this rapid-fire academic competition attracts teams from across the state. The winning team will receive an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., and the chance to compete in the national competition held in April. Competitors can also qualify for scholarships and internships.

The Orca Bowl begins at 9 a.m., in the South Campus Center, University of Washington, Seattle. Visit wsg.washington.edu/education/events/orca.html

The National Ocean Sciences Bowl is a program of the Consortium for Ocean Leadership, based in Washington, D.C. About 2,000 students from more than 400 high schools participated in regional competitions this year. Through this educational forum, the National Ocean Sciences Bowl strives to encourage and support the next generation of informed citizens and marine advocates, explorers, policy makers, scientists, researchers, teachers and technicians.

Part of the University of Washington’s College of Ocean and Fishery Sciences, Washington Sea Grant funds marine research and works with communities and businesses to manage and protect marine resources.