Ocean Facts For Kids
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The oceans that surround us are vast and mysterious. They cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface and are home to countless species of marine life. Here are some interesting ocean facts for kids!
1. The largest ocean in the world is the Pacific Ocean. It covers an area of about 63.8 million square miles.
2. The ocean is the source of over 50% of the Earth’s oxygen. The tiny marine plants called phytoplankton produce oxygen through photosynthesis.
3. The average depth of the ocean is about 12,080 feet. The deepest part of the ocean is the Mariana Trench, located in the western Pacific Ocean, which is about 36,070 feet deep!
4. Saltwater makes up 97.5% of the Earth’s water, and the ocean holds about 97% of all water on the planet.
5. More than one third of the world’s population lives within 60 miles of the coast!
6. The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Australia, is the largest coral reef in the world. It stretches over 1,400 miles and is home to thousands of species of marine life.
7. Around 90% of the world’s trade is transported by ships, which is why the ocean is often referred to as the world’s highway.
8. The ocean has five layers, each with different characteristics and depths. The layers are the epipelagic zone, the mesopelagic zone, the bathypelagic zone, the abyssopelagic zone, and the hadalpelagic zone.
9. The ocean’s waves are created by wind, earthquakes, and even gravity from the moon and sun.
10. Many species of marine life can glow in the dark, a process known as bioluminescence. This adaptation helps them to attract prey or scare off predators.
In conclusion, the ocean is a vast and fascinating place. It is essential for life on Earth and is truly one of our planet’s greatest wonders. Hopefully, these ocean facts have given you a better understanding and appreciation of this amazing underwater world!