Ocean water is a complex mixture of 96.5 percent water and 3.5 percent dissolved salts and other substances. The "saltiness" of the ocean, also known as salinity, is caused by salts that were carried from rivers or from erupting volcanoes.
Here are some key features of ocean water:
- Salinity: The average salinity of ocean water is about 3.5%, meaning that every 100 grams of seawater contains about 3.5 grams of dissolved salts.
- Temperature: The temperature of ocean water varies greatly depending on latitude, depth, and season. It can range from below freezing near the poles to over 80°F (27°C) in tropical waters.
- pH: The pH of ocean water is slightly alkaline, typically ranging from 7.5 to 8.4. However, ocean acidification, a process caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, is lowering the pH of ocean water.
- Density: The density of ocean water is influenced by salinity, temperature, and pressure. It is generally denser than freshwater due to the dissolved salts.
- Composition: In addition to salts, ocean water contains other dissolved substances, including minerals, gases, and organic matter.
Ocean water plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate and supporting marine life. It absorbs heat from the sun and transports it around the globe, influencing weather patterns and ocean currents. It also provides a habitat for a vast array of marine organisms, from microscopic plankton to giant whales.
