![]() Of the three factors-temperature, salinity, and pressure-that have an effect on water density, temperature changes have the greatest effect. Thermohaline comes from two words: thermo for heat and haline for salt. Oceanographers and climatologists are interested in the distributions of both temperature and salinity in the world's oceans because they are two factors that determine the vertical thermohaline circulation (see chapter 1). This concept is extremely important in the world's oceans because it is a chief mechanism controlling the movement of major currents and ocean circulation patterns. Because high density water sinks and low density seawater rises, this distinct change in density generates water motion. As pressure increases with depth, so does the density of a water mass. Pressure increases with depth this can be felt when a swimmer goes underwater and has to relieve ear pressure at certain levels. Pressure is another factor that affects density. ![]() Water that has higher salinity will be denser. The addition or subtraction of salts also causes seawater density to change. Conversely, when a substance is cooled, its density increases. When a substance is heated, it expands and its density is lowered. Some of the energy that is absorbed may evaporate seawater, which increases its temperature and salinity. ![]() Solar energy is absorbed by seawater and stored as heat in the oceans. In the world's oceans, the properties of density, temperature, and salinity (salt content) all work together and result in distinct characteristics that ultimately relate to climate change and global warming.
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