The ocean is made up of saltwater, which consists of various dissolved salts, minerals, and other organic and inorganic substances. The most abundant salt in seawater is sodium chloride (table salt), but it also contains ions such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sulfate. The salinity of seawater refers to the concentration of all these dissolved salts and minerals per unit of water.
Salinity is typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt) or practical salinity units (psu). The average salinity of seawater is approximately 35 ppt or 35 psu. However, salinity can vary depending on factors such as location, depth, temperature, and precipitation.
The formula to calculate salinity is:
Salinity (ppt) = (weight of dissolved salts / weight of seawater sample) x 1000
For example, if a seawater sample has a total weight of 100 grams and contains 3 grams of dissolved salts, the salinity would be:
Salinity = (3g / 100g) x 1000 = 30 ppt
Citation:
- Millero, Frank J. "Chemical oceanography." CRC Press, 2006.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). "Salinity." accessed at: https://www.pmel.noaa.gov/co2/story/What+is+Ocean+Acidification%3F
What made up of ocean? Describe salinity in sea water? Give formula to calculate salinity
Provide citation with references
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