CAUSE
One question. One truth.
“Why is the ocean salty?”
The primary source of ocean salt is the erosion of rocks on land by rainwater, which is slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide. This process releases sodium and chloride ions that rivers transport to the ocean, accumulating over billions of years.
High confidenceStructural
CURRENT STATE
The average ocean salinity is approximately 35 parts per thousand, with sodium chloride comprising about 78% of the total salt content. Salt levels are relatively stable, balancing continuous input from land erosion with deposition on the seafloor.
Have your own question?
Ask CAUSE →askcause.com