Antarctic Ocean

views updated May 08 2018

Antarctic Ocean (Southern Ocean) Term used to describe the oceanic waters surrounding Antarctica. It extends northwards to about 40°S latitude, the limit of the northward drift of ice from the Antarctic region, where there is a marked change in water temperature and salinity. The Antarctic Ocean is typified by low water temperatures (−1.8°C to 10°C).

Antarctic Ocean

views updated Jun 11 2018

Antarctic Ocean(Southern Ocean) The oceanic waters surrounding Antarctica. It extends northwards to about 40°S latitude, the limit of the northward drift of ice from the Antarctic region, where there is a marked change in water temperature and salinity. Water temperatures are low (−1.8°C to 10°C).