Question

Which among the following statements is/are true about the role of oceans in the global water cycle?

• A. Oceans are the main thermal regulating element of the climate system.
• B. Nearly 86% of global evaporation comes from the oceans.
• C. The water cycle has a significant impact on ocean salinity, and thus density, circulation, stratification, and mixing.
• D. Alterations to the global water cycle cannot be studied due to technological and logistical constraints.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

The water cycle has a significant impact on ocean salinity, and thus density, circulation, stratification, and mixing.

The ocean plays a key role in the global water cycle. Majority of evaporation (E) and precipitation (P) occurs in the oceans as they hold 97% of water. E-P determines surface salinity of the ocean. Salinity and temperature determine the density of ocean water, and density influences the circulation. Ocean salinity measurements can provide insights into water-cycle operation and its long-term change. Environmentalists have developed climate models that provide insights on alterations to the global water cycle.