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Where does the ocean get most of its heat?

User Zora
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Answer:

  • Sunlight

Step-by-step explanation:

Sunlight is the primary source of ocean heat. In addition, heat that has been collected by clouds, water vapor, and greenhouse gases is released, and part of that heat energy reaches the ocean. Heat is continually transferred from warmer to colder latitudes and to deeper layers of the ocean by waves, tides, and currents.

User Apoorv Patne
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Answer:

The ocean gets most of its heat from the following sources:

  • Solar radiation: The sun is the primary source of heat for the Earth's surface and its oceans. The ocean absorbs sunlight, which warms the surface water and causes it to evaporate. The evaporated water then rises into the atmosphere and eventually falls back to the Earth as precipitation.
  • Atmospheric heat transfer: The atmosphere also plays a role in transferring heat to the ocean. Heat is exchanged between the atmosphere and the ocean through convection, conduction, and radiation. Warmer air can transfer heat to the ocean's surface, while cooler air can absorb heat from the ocean.
  • Geothermal energy: Heat is also generated within the Earth's crust due to the decay of radioactive elements. This geothermal energy can transfer to the ocean through underwater vents and hot springs.
  • Ocean currents: The ocean's currents transport heat from one part of the ocean to another. Warm ocean currents, such as the Gulf Stream, can transport warm water from the tropics to higher latitudes.

Overall, solar radiation is the primary source of heat for the ocean, but all of these factors contribute to the ocean's overall heat budget.

User Ppovoski
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