Properties of Ocean Water

Front

What is the term for a rapid change of temperature with increasing depth of the ocean?

Back

Thermocline

Front

What process increases the salinity of ocean water?

Back

Formation of sea ice

Front

True or False: The density of a specific type of material never changes.

Back

True

Front

How do marine organisms help maintain the chemical balance of ocean water?

Back

By removing nutrients and returning other nutrients and gases to the water.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Hydrogen and oxygen.

Front

What is the definition of salinity in ocean water?

Back

Salinity is the concentration of dissolved salts in water.

Front

What is the average salinity of ocean water?

Back

Approximately 35 parts per thousand (ppt).

Front

What is the significance of the thermocline in ocean ecosystems?

Back

It affects the distribution of marine life and temperature regulation.

Front

What role does sea ice formation play in ocean salinity?

Back

It increases salinity as salt is expelled from the ice during formation.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and density in ocean water?

Back

Generally, as temperature decreases, density increases.