Pronunciation: [sˈɒlt spɹˈɪŋ] (IPA) 
"Salt spring" is a two-word phrase that describes a natural saltwater spring. The IPA phonetic transcription for "salt spring" would be /sɔlt sprɪŋ/. The first word is spelled with a "l" silent and the "a" pronounced as the short "o" sound. The second word is spelled with a "p" silent and the "i" pronounced as a short "i" sound. Together, the two words produce a pronunciation that accurately reflects the meaning of the phrase.
A salt spring refers to a natural phenomenon where underground water sources discharge salty or mineral-rich water onto the Earth's surface. This term is primarily associated with the geology and hydrology of certain regions. In particular, it is commonly used to describe springs or wells where the water contains a high concentration of dissolved salts, most notably sodium chloride.
Salt springs are typically formed when water from rain or melting snow percolates deep into the ground, encountering layers of rocks or soil that contain soluble salts. As the water interacts with these minerals, it dissolves them and becomes increasingly saline. Subsequently, when the water reaches a certain point in the underground aquifer, it is forced to the surface through a natural conduit, resulting in the emergence of a salt spring.
These springs often possess distinctive characteristics, such as a brackish taste, high salinity levels, and sometimes even visible salt deposits in the surrounding area. Due to their mineral-rich composition, salt springs have historically been used for various purposes. They have been utilized as natural salt mines for harvesting salt and as therapeutic bathing spots known for their potential healing properties. Additionally, some salt springs serve as unique ecosystems, attracting specialized flora and fauna adapted to such saline environments.
The etymology of the word "salt spring" can be traced back to the Old English word "sealt" meaning salt and "spring" meaning a natural flow of water from the Earth. The combination of these two words refers to a natural source or spring where salt can be found or extracted. It emphasizes the presence of salt in a particular spring or water source.
