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.
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An elongated zone of high pressure is known as a ________
Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).
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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