Ocean Water Properties

Front

What happens to the temperature and salinity of ocean water as you go deeper?

Back

The temperature generally decreases and salinity can vary, but it is not true that water is less salty as you go deeper.

Front

How does most dissolved oxygen enter the ocean?

Back

Most dissolved oxygen enters the ocean through photosynthesis at the surface from phytoplankton and by the dissolving of gases at the interface between the atmosphere and ocean.

Front

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

Back

Blue, green, yellow, red.

Front

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

Back

The ocean makes up about 70% of the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the distribution of water on Earth?

Back

3% freshwater, 97% salt water.

Front

Define salinity in the context of ocean water.

Back

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

Front

What is the primary source of energy for oceanic photosynthesis?

Back

The primary source of energy for oceanic photosynthesis is sunlight.

Front

Explain the concept of ocean stratification.

Back

Ocean stratification refers to the layering of water in the ocean based on density, temperature, and salinity.

Front

What role do phytoplankton play in the ocean ecosystem?

Back

Phytoplankton are crucial as they produce oxygen through photosynthesis and serve as the base of the marine food web.

Front

What is the thermocline?

Back

The thermocline is a layer in the ocean where the temperature changes rapidly with depth.