foundational definitions and key terms for AS Marine Science, covering water properties, ecosystems, and classification.
20 cards
Front
What is the definition of a solute?
Back
A solute is a substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution. In marine contexts, this refers to substances like salt or gases dissolved in water.
Front
What is the function of a solvent?
Back
A solvent is a liquid, typically water in marine science, that dissolves other substances (solutes) to create a solution. Water is known as the 'universal solvent'.
Front
Define salinity.
Back
Salinity is the total concentration of dissolved salts in seawater, usually measured in parts per thousand (ppt) or practical salinity units (PSU). Average ocean salinity is approximately 35 ppt.
Front
What is density in the context of seawater?
Back
Density is mass per unit volume. In seawater, it is determined by temperature, salinity, and pressure. Cold, salty water is denser than warm, fresh water.
Front
What is a thermocline?
Back
A thermocline is a distinct layer within a body of water where the temperature gradient changes rapidly with depth, separating the warm surface mixed layer from the cold deep water.
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