Saltwater

Saltwater, also known as saline water, is water that contains a high concentration of dissolved salts, predominantly sodium chloride (NaCl). It is commonly found in oceans and seas, but can also be present in saltwater lakes and saltwater marshes.

Composition of Saltwater

The average salinity of seawater is about 3.5%, meaning there are about 35 grams of dissolved salts in every kilogram of seawater. In addition to sodium chloride, saltwater also contains other dissolved ions such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

Properties of Saltwater

Saltwater has several unique properties:

• High density compared to freshwater
• Higher boiling point and lower freezing point than pure water
• Greater buoyancy, making it easier to float in saltwater than in freshwater
• Greater conductivity, allowing electricity to pass through it more easily than through freshwater

Importance of Saltwater

Saltwater plays a crucial role in the Earth's water cycle, climate regulation, and the sustenance of marine life. It also has economic significance in industries such as fishing, shipping, and tourism.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about saltwater:

1. What is the primary dissolved salt in saltwater?
2. What is the average salinity of seawater?
3. List three unique properties of saltwater.
4. Explain the importance of saltwater in the Earth's systems and human activities.

[Saltwater] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Mixtures and CompoundsChemistry • High School
• SolutionsChemistry • High School
• Water HabitatsScience • Second Grade