Ocean Properties & Characteristics

Front

What is salinity in ocean water?

Back

Salinity is the measure of the concentration of salts in water, typically expressed in parts per thousand (ppt).

Front

What factors contribute to high salinity in ocean areas?

Back

High salinity is often found in areas with high evaporation rates, such as warm, arid regions or enclosed seas.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of ocean water?

Back

As the temperature of ocean water increases, its density decreases because warmer water is less dense than cooler water.

Front

What is the primary source of heat for the surface of the ocean?

Back

The primary source of heat for the surface of the ocean is solar radiation from the sun.

Front

What process leads to an increase in the salinity of ocean water?

Back

Evaporation leads to an increase in salinity because it removes water but leaves salts behind.

Front

What is the relationship between salt content and water density?

Back

The higher the salt content in ocean water, the more dense the water becomes.

Front

What is the effect of freshwater influx on ocean salinity?

Back

Freshwater influx, such as from rivers or melting ice, decreases the salinity of ocean water.

Front

How does ocean circulation affect temperature and salinity distribution?

Back

Ocean circulation helps distribute heat and salinity throughout the ocean, affecting climate and marine ecosystems.

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

Thermohaline circulation is the global movement of ocean water driven by differences in temperature (thermo) and salinity (haline), which affects climate and nutrient distribution.

Front

What role does evaporation play in ocean salinity?

Back

Evaporation increases salinity by removing water and leaving salts behind, particularly in warm climates.