Correct option is A
The salinity of the ocean is mainly composed of various dissolved salts. These salts are primarily in the form of ions that come from the weathering of rocks, volcanic activity, and the dissolution of minerals. Let's evaluate the options and determine which salt constitutes the highest percentage in the oceans.
Information booster
Ocean Salinity: The average salinity of seawater is about 35 ppt (parts per thousand). This means that in 1,000 grams of seawater, there are roughly 35 grams of dissolved salts. The distribution of salts can vary depending on location, depth, and climate conditions (e.g., evaporation in hot, arid regions increases salinity).
Importance of Sodium Chloride: Sodium chloride plays a critical role in the chemical balance of the ocean. It affects the osmotic pressure in marine organisms and is essential in processes like water filtration and ion exchange in marine ecosystems.
Saltwater Density: The density of seawater, which is higher than freshwater, is largely influenced by the dissolved salts. This density impacts ocean currents and marine life.
Evaporation and Precipitation: In regions where there is high evaporation, like the Red Sea or the Persian Gulf, salinity levels can be much higher than the global average due to the concentration of salts.
Marine Resources: The salts dissolved in seawater are important resources for industries, such as the extraction of magnesium (from magnesium chloride) and production of Epsom salts (from magnesium sulfate). These minerals also have significant agricultural and pharmaceutical uses.
Additional Knowledge:
Proportion in Oceans: Calcium sulphate makes up about 1.1% of the total dissolved salts in the ocean.