10 Fascinating Facts About Oceanography That Will Blow Your Mind!
Our world is largely composed of water, and the oceans cover a significant portion that we still haven’t completely explored. Therefore, oceanography, the study of the oceans, adds to our knowledge of our planet. To mark the importance of this field, we have collected ten amazing facts that will blow your mind.
1. Oceans are home to the largest living creature ever recorded on Earth
The Blue Whale is the largest known animal to have ever existed. The average length of an adult blue whale ranges from 80 to 100 feet, and it can weigh as much as 200 tons. This massive creature lives in our oceans, feeding on millions of tiny plankton every day.
2. More than 90% of trade travels by sea
Commercial shipping by sea accounts for more than 90% of global trade. A large portion of the products we use every day, including electronics, coffee, and clothing, starts their journey from one country by sea.
3. Oceans cover more than 70% of the earth’s surface
The oceans take up more than 70% of the earth’s surface, and they have a significant impact on our climate. The vastness of the ocean creates an ebb and flow of currents, which distribute heat and nutrients around the planet.
4. The oceans are getting more acidic
With excessive levels of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere, seawater has become more acidic. Over the last century, ocean acidity has increased by nearly thirty percent, putting marine life in danger.
5. Only 5% of the world’s oceans have been explored
We know more about the surface of the moon than we do about our oceans. Only about 5% of the world’s oceans have been explored and studied so far, which means a vast portion of our planet remains a mystery.
6. The oceans used to have a different color
The oceans used to have a greenish tint due to increased levels of iron and other trace elements. But with the rise of marine phytoplankton, we now see a beautiful blue color in the oceans.
7. The oceans contain more than 20 million tons of gold
The oceans hold around 20 million tons of gold, making them one of the biggest gold reserves on earth. However, extracting the gold is a difficult and expensive process.
8. Some marine animals can change their colors rapidly
Cephalopods, such as squids and octopuses, are known for their ability to change color rapidly to blend in with their surroundings. This characteristic allows them to protect themselves from predators and prey on other marine animals.
9. Oceans played a role in the origin of life
Some scientists believe that the oceans played a significant role in the origin of life on earth. The first known life forms are thought to have emerged from the oceans over 3 billion years ago.
10. The southern ocean is home to the biggest iceberg ever recorded
The biggest iceberg ever recorded floated in the southern ocean in 1956. Known as Iceberg A-2, the massive chunk of ice measured about 15,000 square miles, which is bigger than the entire country of Israel.
Conclusion
Our oceans are vast, beautiful, and full of surprises. As inhabitants of Earth, it’s essential to understand the role of our oceans in our lives, and oceanography provides insight into the study of our planet’s oceans. These ten fascinating facts about oceanography only scratch the surface. There’s so much more to discover in the unexplored depths.
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