Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
atmosphere, which evolve to balance the Earth's climate, the oceans
play the role of a slow partner, whereas the atmosphere is the quick
partner. In temperature for example, the oceanic extremes go from -
1.6°C in polar regions, where sea ice forms (as continental
temperatures are less than -50°C), to 32°C in the semi-enclosed
tropical seas, such as the Red Sea, far removed from the extremes of the
Sahara. The oceans act as a moderator for extremes of atmospheric
temperature.
in mm/day
Figure 2.6.
Changes in precipitation in the period 2071-2100 compared to those in
the period 1971-2000 calculated from models by CNRM-CERFACS and IPSL, for
RCP2.6 above and RCP8.5 below (©Patrick Brockmann (LSCE/IPSL,
CEA/CNRS/UVSQ)) (see color section)
The other variable that characterizes seawater is its salt content. Its
quantity is measured in grams of salt per kilogram of water. The
saltiest waters are concentrated in the semi-enclosed tropical seas,
such as the Red Sea where intense evaporation helps to concentrate
the salt (40 g of salt/kg) whereas in the semi-enclosed seas close to the
