OCEAN WATER Meaning and
Definition
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Ocean water refers to the vast expanse of saltwater that covers approximately 71% of the Earth's surface. It is a specific type of water found in oceans, seas, and other major bodies of water. Ocean water is characterized by its high concentration of dissolved salts, primarily sodium chloride, though it also contains various other minerals, gases, and organic matter.
Ocean water is distinct from freshwater, as it has a higher salinity level. The salinity of ocean water typically ranges from 3.3 to 3.7%, meaning that for every kilogram of water, there are around 33-37 grams of dissolved salts. This salinity is due to the accumulation of salts over time through various processes, including weathering of rocks, volcanic activity, and the erosion of land minerals.
The physical properties of ocean water, such as density and viscosity, differ from freshwater due to its higher salt content. The density of ocean water increases with decreasing temperature or increasing salinity, influencing ocean currents and the mixing of water masses. Its viscosity, or resistance to flow, is also slightly higher compared to freshwater.
Ocean water plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth, serving as a habitat for a diverse range of marine organisms. It also functions in regulating the planet's climate by absorbing and redistributing solar energy and maintaining the heat balance through atmospheric interactions. Additionally, ocean water is critical for transportation, trade, and as a source of food and natural resources for human societies around the world.
Etymology of OCEAN WATER
The word "ocean" originates from the Old French word "ocean" which came from the Latin word "oceānus". The Latin term, in turn, was derived from the Greek word "ōkeanós", referring to the great river believed to surround the Earth. The term gradually came to represent the vast body of saltwater covering most of the Earth's surface.
The word "water" has Old English roots, with the word "wæter" used to describe the liquid substance. It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages. The term "water" itself can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "watar", which has connections to the Proto-Indo-European root word "*wodr̥".
