SOUTHERN OCEAN Meaning and
Definition
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The Southern Ocean is an expansive body of water surrounding Antarctica, stretching from the coastlines of Antarctica to the 60th parallel south latitude. This ocean serves as the cohesive connection between the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, and it encompasses an estimated area of approximately 20 million square kilometers.
Distinctive features set the Southern Ocean apart from other oceans. One key factor is the presence of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. This powerful current circulates around Antarctica, moving from west to east, and it is believed to be the longest and strongest current globally. The Antarctic Circumpolar Current plays a significant role in global ocean circulation, as it transports vast quantities of heat, nutrients, and carbon dioxide throughout the world's oceans.
The Southern Ocean possesses unique physical characteristics due to its exposure to extreme weather conditions and cold temperatures year-round. This results in the formation of iceberg-infested waters and sea ice, which add to the distinctiveness of this ocean.
Designating the Southern Ocean as a separate and distinct ocean has been a topic of geographical debate. However, in 2000, the International Hydrographic Organization officially recognized its existence as the fifth ocean of the world, delineating it from the other surrounding oceans. This distinction acknowledges the Southern Ocean's significant ecological, climatic, and oceanographic attributes and aims to foster increased attention and protection for this vast and vital marine ecosystem.
Etymology of SOUTHERN OCEAN
The word "southern ocean" is a compound term consisting of the adjective "southern" and the noun "ocean".Both words have their origins in the English language.
- "Southern" originated from the Old English word "sūtherne", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic language. It is related to the word "south", which comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *seu-, meaning "to bend" or "to turn". This root is connected to the directional concept of "turning toward the sunrise". Over time, "southern" came to refer to the region to the south of a particular place.
- "Ocean" originated from the Latin word "Oceanus", which was borrowed from the Greek word "Okeanos".
