Marine Science Concepts and Terminology

Front

What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered by ocean?

Back

71%

Front

What is a ring of low coral islands and reefs surrounding a central lagoon called?

Back

Atoll

Front

What does the term 'potable' mean?

Back

Safe to drink

Front

What is the term for the always-changing height of the ocean surface at a given location?

Back

Local sea level

Front

What are vast bodies of salt water that separate the continents called?

Back

Oceans

Front

What is the term for the average level of the ocean's surface?

Back

Mean Sea Level (MSL)

Front

What is the primary component of seawater?

Back

Salt (sodium chloride)

Front

What is the process called when water vapor turns into liquid water?

Back

Condensation

Front

What is the term for the movement of ocean water caused by wind?

Back

Ocean currents

Front

What is the largest ocean on Earth?

Back

Pacific Ocean