norðurAtlantshafi

NorðurAtlantshafi is the ocean that lies between North America and Europe and Africa. It is the second largest of the Earth's five oceanic divisions, and is connected to the South Atlantic Ocean by the equator. It covers approximately 106.4 million square kilometers and contains about 25% of the world's total ocean surface area. The North Atlantic is bounded on the west by the Americas, on the north by Greenland, on the east by Europe and Africa, and on the south by the equator.

The North Atlantic Ocean is a vital part of the global climate system. Its currents play a significant role in regulating temperatures worldwide, most notably through the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), often referred to as the "Great Ocean Conveyor Belt." This system transports warm water from the tropics northward and cooler water southward, influencing weather patterns across continents. The ocean is also a major route for international trade and shipping, with busy shipping lanes connecting major ports in North America, Europe, and Africa.

The North Atlantic is home to a diverse array of marine life, including numerous species of fish, marine mammals like whales and dolphins, and seabirds. Its waters support important fisheries that are crucial for the economies of many coastal nations. However, these ecosystems face challenges from overfishing, pollution, and the impacts of climate change, including ocean acidification and rising sea temperatures. The ocean floor of the North Atlantic is characterized by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a major underwater mountain range where new oceanic crust is formed.