seawater chemistry
Seawater is a complex mixture primarily composed of water (about 96.5%) and dissolved salts, mainly sodium chloride (table salt). It also contains various minerals, nutrients, and gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. The chemistry of seawater is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and biological activity. Key components, like calcium and magnesium, play critical roles in marine life and ecosystem health. Additionally, processes like evaporation and river run-off affect salinity levels. Understanding seawater chemistry is essential for studying ocean health, climate change, and the world's weather patterns.
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Seawater is a complex solution primarily composed of water (about 96.5%) and salts, with sodium and chloride being the most abundant. It also contains various dissolved gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide, along with nutrients like nitrates and phosphates essential for marine life. The pH of seawater typically ranges from 7.5 to 8.5, indicating it is slightly alkaline. Other elements and compounds, such as magnesium, sulfate, and trace metals, play crucial roles in ocean chemistry and the health of marine ecosystems. These components influence everything from ocean currents to climate regulation and biological productivity.