Sea surface salinity

Satellite measurements of sea surface salinity provide information on how the global water cycle is changing over time. This includes the continuing exchange of freshwater from the ocean transitioning to the atmosphere and back again. It can also help monitor changes in ocean circulation and weather patterns.

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  • A discharge of freshwater into the Atlantic Ocean from the Amazon River created a visible plume that can be detected by satellites. This can affect the salinity levels and nutrient distribution in the area, influencing the marine ecosystem and fisheries.

  • Water evaporation in the Atlantic Ocean occurs due to solar radiation and atmospheric conditions, leading to higher salinity levels in the surface water. This can influence ocean currents and weather patterns and affect the area’s marine life.

  • Western Boundary Currents are caused by Earth’s rotation and by winds, which lead to the movement of water along the western boundaries of the ocean basins. These currents can affect the temperature and nutrient transport and the distribution of marine life in the surrounding areas.

  • Precipitation over the Atlantic Ocean occurs due to atmospheric conditions and can lead to lower salinity levels in the surface water. This can influence ocean currents and weather patterns and affect the area’s marine life.

  • Upwelling in the Atlantic Ocean occurs due to the movement of deep, nutrient-rich water to the surface, driven by winds and ocean currents. This can lead to increased biological productivity and biodiversity in the area and affect the temperature and nutrient distribution in the surrounding waters.

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SMOS data
January 2015
38 PSS32 PSS
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