What is the average salinity of the Indian ocean?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. 35%.
- The Indian Ocean’s average salinity is around 35 ppt. The Bay of Bengal, receiving a large influx of freshwater from rivers such as the Ganges, exhibits lower salinity levels.
- In contrast, the Arabian Sea experiences higher salinity due to intense evaporation and relatively limited freshwater input."
- Salinity refers to the total concentration of dissolved salts in a body of seawater.
- It is measured as the mass of salt per 1,000 grams of seawater and is typically expressed in parts per thousand (ppt).
- Waters with salinity up to 24.7 ppt are classified as brackish.
- Salinity plays a key role in determining the chemical properties of natural waters and influences a wide range of biological processes.