salinty

How much salt is in the ocean?

November 22, 2008 by Beach Chair Scientist

The amount of salt in the ocean, known as ‘salinity’, is a measure of the of the amount of salt dissolved in 1000 grams of water. The amount is expressed as parts per thousands (ppt).

Refractometers are a tool used to measure the amount of salinity in the ocean. The salinity in the ocean is approximately 32 to 35 ppt. Freshwater has a salinity of zero. The estuaries fluctuate their salinity level depending upon the tides. But, it’s always below the open ocean. The poles have a lower salinity because the cold water does not evaporate as fast.

Do you have another great question? Email info@beachchairscientist.com and let us know what you always ponder while digging your toes in the sand!

Ocean salinity trends show human fingerprint (environmentalresearchweb.org)
SMOS has a better look at salinity (sciencedaily.com)
Ocean currents play a role in predicting extent of Arctic sea ice (environmentalresearchweb.org)

Filed Under: Ocean Tagged With: Earth Sciences, Estuary, Ocean, salinty

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