Final answer:
Density-based separation is used to separate substances with different densities. Differences in density caused by temperature and salinity lead to the separation of water masses in the ocean.
Step-by-step explanation:
Separation of Substances with Different Densities
The separation of two substances with different densities is called density-based separation. It is a physical method used to separate mixtures based on the differences in their densities. One example of density-based separation is using a separatory funnel to separate oil and water. Since oil has a lower density than water, it forms a separate layer on top and can be easily separated.
Separation of Water Masses in the Ocean
The separation of water masses in the ocean is primarily caused by differences in density. These density differences are mainly due to variations in temperature and salinity. Cold and salty water is denser than warm and less salty water, leading to the formation of distinct water masses at different depths in the ocean.