Ocean Properties

Front

What two elements make up the salt in salt water?

Back

Sodium Chloride

Front

What is the order of ocean layers from most dense to least dense?

Back

Blue, green, yellow, red

Front

What two factors influence the density of ocean water?

Back

Salinity and temperature

Front

What is true about the water on the bottom of the ocean?

Back

It is the densest water found in the ocean.

Front

What effect do rainfall and river runoff have on ocean salinity?

Back

They cause the salinity to decrease.

Front

Define salinity in the context of ocean water.

Back

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

Front

What is the average salinity of ocean water?

Back

About 35 ppt.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of ocean water?

Back

Colder water is denser than warmer water.

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

A large-scale ocean circulation driven by global density gradients created by surface heat and freshwater fluxes.

Front

What role does ocean water density play in ocean currents?

Back

Density differences drive the movement of ocean currents, influencing climate and weather patterns.