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Salinity in Oceans - Indian Geography, UPSC IAS Exam Preparation Video Lecture | Geography (Prelims) by Valor Academy

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FAQs on Salinity in Oceans - Indian Geography, UPSC IAS Exam Preparation Video Lecture - Geography (Prelims) by Valor Academy

1. What is salinity in oceans?
Ans. Salinity in oceans refers to the concentration of dissolved salts, mainly sodium chloride, in seawater. It is usually measured in parts per thousand (ppt) or practical salinity units (PSU). Salinity levels vary across different regions of the ocean due to factors such as evaporation, precipitation, and freshwater input from rivers.
2. How does salinity affect ocean currents?
Ans. Salinity plays a crucial role in the formation and movement of ocean currents. Differences in salinity levels create variations in water density, which in turn influence the vertical and horizontal circulation patterns of the ocean. Higher salinity water tends to be denser and sinks, while lower salinity water is less dense and rises. This density-driven circulation helps in the formation of major ocean currents, such as the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic Drift.
3. What are the factors that influence salinity in the Indian Ocean?
Ans. Several factors influence salinity levels in the Indian Ocean. Evaporation is one of the primary factors, as the Indian Ocean experiences high temperatures and strong solar radiation, leading to increased evaporation and higher salinity. Precipitation, especially from monsoon rains, can dilute the salinity levels in certain regions. Additionally, freshwater input from rivers, such as the Ganges and Brahmaputra, can also impact salinity near their mouths.
4. How does salinity affect marine life in the Indian Ocean?
Ans. Salinity levels in the Indian Ocean play a significant role in shaping marine ecosystems and the distribution of marine life. Different species of marine organisms have varying tolerance levels to salinity, and changes in salinity can affect their growth, reproduction, and overall survival. For example, certain coral species are highly sensitive to changes in salinity, which can lead to coral bleaching and subsequent ecosystem degradation.
5. What are the major sources of freshwater input into the Indian Ocean?
Ans. The major sources of freshwater input into the Indian Ocean are rivers and monsoon rainfall. Several large rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Indus, and Irrawaddy, discharge freshwater into the northern Indian Ocean. The monsoon season, especially the southwest monsoon, brings heavy rainfall to the Indian subcontinent, contributing significantly to freshwater input into the ocean. These freshwater inputs can influence salinity levels and ocean dynamics in the region.
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