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Thermohaline circulation, artwork C016 / 8121
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Thermohaline circulation, artwork C016 / 8121
Thermohaline circulation. Computer artwork showing all 3 layers (shallow, middle and deep) of the large slow global currents driven by thermohaline circulation. Thermohaline circulation is a part of the large-scale ocean circulation that is driven by global density gradients created by surface temperature and salinity (salt content) differences. In certain areas near the polar oceans, the colder surface water also gets saltier due to evaporation or sea ice formation. In these regions, the surface water becomes dense enough to sink to the ocean depths. This pumping of surface water into the deep ocean forces the deep water to move horizontally until it can find an area on the world where it can rise back to the surface and close the current
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Media ID 9221097
© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork, titled "Thermohaline circulation" offers a mesmerizing visual representation of the complex global currents that drive our planet's oceanic systems. Created by NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this computer-generated illustration showcases all three layers - shallow, middle, and deep - of the Thermohaline circulation. The Thermohaline circulation is an integral part of the large-scale oceanic movement influenced by density gradients resulting from temperature and salinity variations on the Earth's surface. In certain polar regions, where colder surface water becomes saltier due to evaporation or sea ice formation, it becomes dense enough to sink into the depths. This process propels surface water into the deep ocean, forcing horizontal movements until it finds an area where it can rise back to the surface and complete its current cycle. The artwork beautifully depicts these intricate movements across continents and oceans worldwide. From Europe to Australia, from North America to Asia, this global phenomenon connects diverse regions through a network of slow but powerful currents. The illustration also highlights how differences in temperature and salinity play a crucial role in shaping these vast oceanic systems. As we delve deeper into understanding our planet's hydrological dynamics and environmental science in the 21st century, artworks like this provide invaluable insights into Earth observation and mapping techniques. They serve as reminders of both nature's complexity and interconnectedness while inspiring us to appreciate and protect our precious marine ecosystems for generations to come.
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