The Atlantic Ocean is the youngest of the Earth's five oceans.
Formation of the Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean began forming approximately 150 million years ago during the Jurassic Period. This formation was a result of the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea. As Pangaea fragmented, the continents of Africa and South America drifted apart, creating the space that would eventually become the Atlantic Ocean.
Size and Significance
While the youngest, the Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest ocean on Earth. It covers about one-fifth of the Earth's surface and accounts for around 29% of the world's ocean water. Its relatively recent formation, geologically speaking, contributes to its unique characteristics compared to older oceans like the Pacific.
Why the Atlantic is Considered Youngest
The age of an ocean is determined by the age of its oldest oceanic crust. The Atlantic Ocean's crust is significantly younger than the Pacific's, which has portions dating back to the early Jurassic. The ongoing expansion of the Atlantic along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge further reinforces its status as the "youngest" ocean, as new crust is continually being formed.
