Flowing Planet: Oceans & Water Cycle
Oceans and the water cycle explore Earth’s oceans, their properties, and the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface, highlighting the interconnected systems that sustain life. Oceans cover 71% of Earth’s surface, influencing climate and hosting marine life, while the water cycle circulates water through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, driving processes essential for ecosystems and human survival.
Breakdown of Oceans & Water Cycle
Oceans and the water cycle are defined by their characteristics and the processes that move water globally. Here’s the breakdown:
- Ocean Properties: Characteristics like salinity, temperature, and density that define ocean behavior.
- Ocean Currents: Large-scale movements of ocean water, driven by wind, temperature, and salinity gradients.
- Water Cycle Processes: Stages like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff that cycle water.
- Water Cycle Impacts: Effects of the water cycle on climate, ecosystems, and freshwater availability.
Examples of Oceans & Water Cycle Components
Ocean Properties Examples
- The Pacific Ocean has an average salinity of 35 parts per thousand.
- Surface water in the Gulf of Mexico reaches 28°C in summer.
Ocean Currents Examples
- The Gulf Stream carries warm water from the Caribbean to the North Atlantic.
- The Antarctic Circumpolar Current flows around Antarctica, driven by westerly winds.
- Upwelling currents off Peru bring nutrient-rich deep water to the surface.
Water Cycle Processes Examples
- Evaporation: Water from the Atlantic Ocean turns into vapor on a sunny day.
- Condensation: Water vapor forms clouds over the Rockies as it cools.
- Precipitation: Rain falls from clouds over the Amazon rainforest.
- Runoff: Melted snow from the Alps flows into rivers, reaching the sea.
Water Cycle Impacts Examples
- Heavy rainfall from the water cycle supports the Amazon’s biodiversity.
- Evaporation over oceans influences hurricane formation in the Atlantic.
- Runoff from the Mississippi River provides freshwater to the Gulf of Mexico.