Ocean Properties

Front

What is salinity?

Back

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

Front

What process increases the salinity of seawater?

Back

Evaporation increases the salinity of seawater as water vapor escapes, leaving salts behind.

Front

What is the primary reason seawater is denser than freshwater?

Back

Seawater is denser than freshwater primarily due to its higher salinity.

Front

How does temperature change in water compared to land?

Back

Land changes temperature more quickly than water due to its lower specific heat capacity.

Front

What is convection in the context of ocean energy transfer?

Back

Convection is the process by which warmer, less dense water rises and cooler, denser water sinks, facilitating energy transfer in the ocean.

Front

What role do rivers play in the ocean's salinity?

Back

Rivers contribute freshwater to the ocean, which can decrease local salinity levels.

Front

What is the effect of icebergs melting on seawater salinity?

Back

Melting icebergs add freshwater to the ocean, which decreases the salinity of surrounding seawater.

Front

What is the main way energy is transferred in the ocean?

Back

Convection is the main way energy is transferred in the ocean, moving heat through water currents.

Front

What is the relationship between depth and temperature in the ocean?

Back

Generally, temperature decreases with increasing depth in the ocean.

Front

What is the significance of ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents play a crucial role in regulating climate, distributing heat, and influencing weather patterns.