Vertical distribution of the ocean temperature
The vertical distribution of ocean water is measured from the ocean’s surface to the bottom of the ocean floor; with the gradual increase in the ocean’s depth, the temperature of the ocean water decreases.
- The surface zone’s topmost layer is typically 50-200 meters deep.
- Relatively warm and well-mixed due to wind and wave action.
- Temperature closely follows atmospheric conditions and varies with latitude.
- The thermocline transition zone between the surface and deep water.
- Depth varies (100-400 meters) but is characterized by a rapid decrease in temperature with depth.
- Acts as a barrier, limiting heat exchange between surface and deep waters.
- Deep ocean Vast majority of ocean volume lies below the thermocline.
- Temperature remains relatively constant (around 1.5°C to 4°C).
- Temperature changes are very slow due to minimal sunlight penetration and slow water movement.
- Factors affecting the vertical distribution of Sunlight Penetration, Water Density and Ocean Circulation.
Temperature of Ocean Water| Class 11 Chapter 12 Geography Notes
The ocean water temperature is directly affected by the amount of radiation received from the sun on the ocean surface. The latitudes are closer to the equator and receive direct sunlight all over the years the ocean surface is warmer in these regions where sunlight falls.
The ocean temperatures are different in terms of depth and longitude. There is an inverse relation between the depth and temperature of the ocean. Wherever in the ocean if the depth is deeper than the lower the temperature would be.
In this article, You will learn about the Temperature of ocean water, the Horizontal and Vertical distribution of the ocean temp, and many more related to the topic.