Chapter 2, Problem 129A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The change in salinity as the ocean water cools should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The ocean water is a mixture of salt, water, sea debris and other chemicals released from the ocean life and materials present in the ocean. The temperature of the ocean is higher in the upper region, as this region is penetrated by the sunlight, but in depth, the temperature of the ocean decreases. The salinity also changes with the change in the temperature.

Answer to Problem 129A

As the depth increases, salinity of the ocean decreases till 500 meters, but increases after 1000 meters.

Explanation of Solution

According to the graph, the % salinity of the water at surface level or 0 depth is 35.5, which rapidly fall till 500 m, where the % value of salinity is 34.5, from this point. The salinity starts increasing again. Below 1000 meters depth, with an increase, the salinity of the water increases. At 1000 m, the % salinity is around 34.5. which increases to approximately 35.