oceanchemistry

Ocean chemistry, also known as marine chemistry, is the scientific field that studies the chemical composition and processes of the world's oceans. It investigates the distribution and interactions of dissolved substances, gases, and particles within seawater. This includes the study of major ions like sodium, chloride, sulfate, and magnesium, as well as trace elements, nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates, and dissolved gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. Understanding ocean chemistry is crucial for comprehending a wide range of marine phenomena, from the formation of marine organisms' shells to the ocean's role in regulating Earth's climate.

Key areas of study in ocean chemistry include salinity, which is the total amount of dissolved salts in seawater, and the factors that influence it, such as evaporation and precipitation. The ocean's pH and buffering system are also important, as they determine the acidity or alkalinity of seawater and its capacity to resist changes. This is particularly relevant to the issue of ocean acidification, caused by the absorption of excess atmospheric carbon dioxide. Furthermore, ocean chemistry examines the biogeochemical cycles of elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, which are essential for marine life and play a significant role in global ecological processes. The study also encompasses the chemistry of marine sediments and the interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere.