superocean

A superocean is a hypothetical single ocean that encompasses the entire Earth's surface, excluding the landmasses. This concept is often discussed in the context of paleogeography, the study of the historical distribution of land and sea. Superoceans are believed to have existed during certain periods in Earth's history, particularly during the Precambrian eon, which lasted from the formation of the Earth about 4.6 billion years ago to the start of the Cambrian period around 541 million years ago.

The most well-known superocean is Panthalassa, which existed during the Mesozoic era, approximately 252 to 66 million years ago. Panthalassa covered about 60% of the Earth's surface and surrounded the supercontinent Pangaea. Other superoceans include the earlier Paleo-Pacific, which existed during the Paleozoic era, and the more recent Panthalassa, which was succeeded by the modern oceans as the continents drifted apart.

Superoceans play a significant role in the study of plate tectonics, as they provide evidence of the movement and interaction of the Earth's tectonic plates over time. The formation and breakup of superoceans have influenced the distribution of land and sea, the climate, and the evolution of life on Earth.