Understanding Earth's Oceans and Their Dynamics

Pacific Ocean

Largest ocean, covering more area than others.

Atlantic Ocean

Second largest ocean, separates Americas from Europe.

Indian Ocean

Third largest ocean, located between Africa and Asia.

Southern Ocean

Encircles Antarctica, fourth largest ocean.

Arctic Ocean

Smallest ocean, located around the North Pole.

Ocean Coverage

Over 70% of Earth's surface is ocean.

Water Distribution

97% of Earth's water is in oceans.

Freshwater Sources

1% of Earth's water is freshwater.

Ocean Water Composition

Mainly H2O, with NaCl and Cl as salts.

Salinity

Measure of dissolved salt in water, in ppt.

Average Ocean Salinity

35 ppt for seawater, 0.5 ppt for rivers.

Coriolis Effect

Deflection of air and water due to Earth's rotation.

Surface Ocean Currents

Water flow driven by winds, affecting climate.

Gulf Stream

Warm Atlantic current, influences European climate.

Temperature and Density

Colder water is denser than warmer water.

Deep Ocean Currents

Driven by density differences, nutrient transport.

Tides

Caused by moon's gravitational pull on oceans.

Heat Distribution

Oceans distribute heat globally, regulating climate.

Convection Currents

Movement of water due to temperature differences.

High Salinity Effects

High salinity increases water density, easier to float.

Surface Winds

Primary driver of surface ocean currents.

Ocean's Conveyor Belt

Deep currents move heat, nutrients, and oxygen.

Extreme Temperature Effects

Without currents, land temperatures would be extreme.