Today, the oceans are constantly losing or gaining water in a never-ending process called the water, or hydrologic cycle. The sun and wind lifts particles from the ocean surface and these particles of water vapour mix with the air. If the air cools down, the vapor particles join together as water droplets, which form clouds. They then return to the water cycle through rain or snow.
The oceans affect the weather and temperature. They moderate the earth’s temperature by absorbing incoming solar radiation, which is then stored as heat energy. This energy is then dispersed around the globe through the ocean’s currents. It heats the land and air during the winter and cools it during the summer.
All known forms of life depend on water. To function properly, the body needs between one and seven litres of water per day. Less than this amount could result in dehydration. Even digestion of food requires significant quantities of water.
An ocean can be seen as the planet’s largest home for living organisms.
The ocean gives us oxygen, rain, food and much more. The oceans are essential for transportation as much of the world’s goods are moved by ship, between seaports.
More than 90% of the world’s trade between countries is transported by ship and about half the communication between nations is facilitated by underwater cables.
Oceans manage vast amounts of our pollutants and they contain the most amazing creatures. The oceans support all life on our planet.
Oil is one of the ocean’s greatest resources. Nearly one-third of the world’s oil comes from offshore fields. Some of the most popular area for oil drilling are the Arabian Gulf, The North Sea and The Gulf of Mexico.
