Here are some key characteristics:
* High salinity: This means it has a high concentration of dissolved salts, primarily sodium chloride (NaCl), but also magnesium, calcium, potassium, and others.
* Specific gravity: Slightly denser than freshwater, meaning it's heavier.
* Temperature: Varies depending on location and time of year, but generally warmer than freshwater.
* pH: Slightly alkaline, around 8.1.
* Unique chemical composition: The specific salt composition and concentration vary slightly across different oceans and regions.
Why is it salty?
The ocean's saltiness comes from a combination of factors:
* Weathering and erosion: Rocks and minerals on land are broken down by rain and wind, releasing salts that are carried into rivers and eventually the ocean.
* Hydrothermal vents: These underwater volcanoes release dissolved minerals, including salts, into the ocean.
* Volcanic eruptions: Volcanic activity releases gases and minerals that can dissolve in water, contributing to salinity.
Importance of Marine Saltwater:
Marine saltwater is crucial for life on Earth:
* Habitat for marine life: It supports a vast array of marine organisms, from tiny plankton to giant whales.
* Climate regulation: The ocean plays a major role in regulating Earth's climate by absorbing heat and carbon dioxide.
* Resource for humans: We rely on the ocean for food, transportation, and recreation.
So, marine saltwater is more than just salty water. It's a complex and dynamic system that plays a vital role in our planet's ecosystem.