Describe the three main vertical layers of the ocean

What will be an ideal response?


The ocean consists of three vertical layers. The mixing zone is the surface layer, which is warmed by the Sun and mixed via the action of wind. The mixing zone represents approximately 2% of the oceanic mass. In this layer, variations in water temperature and salinity vary. Below the mixing zone is the thermocline transition zone. This zone, which is more than 1 km thick, has a gradient of temperature that decreases with depth. There is also friction in this layer, so the effects of surface currents are negligible. The colder waters also inhibit convective movements. The thermocline zone accounts for about 18% of oceanic mass. From depths of about 1-1.5 k to the ocean floor is the deep cold zone, which accounts for 80% of the oceanic mass. Here the waters are near 0° C (32°F), but do not freeze due to the dissolved salts.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

You might also like to view...

Aloft, which air flow originates from the west of a midlatitude cyclone?

A) The wet conveyor belt B) The dry conveyor belt C) The cold conveyor belt D) The warm conveyor belt E) The frontal conveyor belt

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

An elongated zone of high pressure is known as a ________

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

What happens to pH levels in regions where there is more carbon dioxide present?

A) Carbon dioxide does not heavily impact pH levels. B) The pH levels increase in these regions. C) The pH levels decrease in these regions. D) The seawater is able to buffer enough that there is no change.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which is not necessarily a characteristic of a red giant?

a. The engulfing of inner planets b. The expansion of atmosphere c. Becoming a supernova d. Materials sent into space from shattering

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences