The Atlantic Ocean is the second largest of the world's oceanic divisions, covering an area of about 106,460,000 square kilometers (41,100,000 sq mi). It spans from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the Southern Ocean in the south, bounded by North America and South America to the west, and by Europe and Africa to the east.
Geography
- Extent: The ocean extends from approximately 50° north latitude to 60° south latitude.
- Depth: Its average depth is 3,646 meters (11,962 feet), with the deepest point being the Puerto Rico Trench at 8,605 meters (28,232 feet).
- Islands: It includes numerous islands, with some of the largest being Greenland, Iceland, and the British Isles.
History and Exploration
The Atlantic Ocean has played a pivotal role in world history:
Climate and Oceanography
The Atlantic Ocean influences global climate patterns:
Marine Life
The Atlantic is home to a diverse array of marine life:
- It supports numerous species of fish, whales, dolphins, seals, and various types of marine flora and fauna.
- Conservation efforts are in place to protect endangered species like the North Atlantic Right Whale.
Economic Importance
The Atlantic Ocean is crucial for:
- Fishing: It provides a significant source of food through commercial fishing.
- Shipping: Major trade routes traverse the Atlantic, connecting the economies of Europe, North America, and South America.
- Energy: Offshore oil and gas exploration and extraction are vital economic activities.
Sources
See Also