Temperature and Salinity

How does salinity affect density?

higher salinity =greater density

What is temperature?

The measure of the average kinetic energy of the molecules.

How does temperature affect salinity?

As temperature increases, the space between water molecules increases—also known as density, which therefore decreases. If the temperature of water decreases its density increases, but only to a point.

How does temperature affect density?

Cooling a substance causes molecules to slow down and get slightly closer together, occupying a smaller volume that results in an increase in density. Hot water is less dense and will float on room-temperature water. Cold water is more dense and will sink in room-temperature water.

How is density affected by temperature and salinity?

Increasing salinity also increases the density of sea water. Less dense water floats on top of more dense water. Given two layers of water with the same salinity, the warmer water will float on top of the colder water.

How is salinity measured?

parts per thousand (ppt)

What is salinity?

the amount of salt dissolved in water