Understanding Ocean Salinity and Oceanography

Front

What is ocean salinity?

Back

The measure of the quantity of dissolved salt in seawater.

Front

What is the average salinity of seawater?

Back

35 grams/kilogram (3.5%)

Front

How does Earth's rotation affect ocean currents?

Back

It affects the wind patterns that give rise to these currents.

Front

True or False: All elements found in the Earth's crust are found in the oceans.

Back

True, they are carried into the oceans by rivers and streams.

Front

True or False: Deep-ocean currents mobilize only 10% of the Earth’s water.

Back

False.

Front

What are deep-ocean currents?

Back

Large-scale movements of water that flow deep beneath the ocean surface.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Wind, Earth's rotation, and differences in water density.

Front

What is the role of salinity in ocean water?

Back

It affects the density and circulation of ocean water.

Front

What is the primary source of salt in the ocean?

Back

Rivers and streams that carry minerals and salts from the land.

Front

How does temperature affect ocean salinity?

Back

Warmer temperatures can increase evaporation, leading to higher salinity.