Flotsam

Flotsam refers to debris or items that float on the surface of a body of water, typically as a result of a shipwreck or maritime accident. This can include lost cargo, parts of a vessel, or other objects that end up floating due to water movement. It differs from "jetsam," which specifically refers to goods intentionally discarded from a ship. Flotsam can provide important information for marine navigation, environmental studies, or even legal matters regarding the ownership of lost property. Understanding flotsam is essential in discussions about maritime safety and ocean ecology.