Oceans

Formation of the Ocean After the Earth cooled, water vapor in the atmosphere condensed, causing rain to fill the first ocean.

Current Divisions Four major divisions: Arctic Ocean Indian Ocean Atlantic Ocean Pacific Ocean

Ocean Water Salinity: measure of the amount of dissolved solids in a given amount of liquid

Ocean Water The salinity of ocean water is 35 g per 1000 g. Salt makes up the majority of dissolved solids.

Ocean Water Factors that affect salinity: Evaporation Circulation Freshwater inflow

Movement of Ocean Water Surface currents: stream like movement of water at or near the surface of the ocean

Movement of Ocean Water Surface currents affect climate by cooling or heating the coastline.

Movement of Ocean Water Deep currents: streamlike movement of water far below the surface Deep and surface currents are the result of convection.

Tides Tides are daily movement of ocean water that change the level of the ocean’s surface.

Tides High tide and low tide depend on the position of the moon as it revolves around the Earth.

High Tides The moon’s pull is strongest on the side facing the moon. This causes a bulge on the side facing the moon and directly opposite.

Tide Variations The sun also affects tides. The tidal range is the difference between low and high tide.

Spring Tide When the sun, moon and Earth are aligned, spring tides occur. Maximum daily tidal range

Neap Tide When the sun, Earth and moon make a 90º angle Minimum daily tidal range