Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean is the second largest of the world's oceans, covering approximately 20% of the Earth's surface. It separates the continents of Europe and Africa to the east from those of North and South America to the west.

Key Facts

• Location: The Atlantic Ocean is bounded by North and South America to the west, Europe and Africa to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, and the Southern Ocean to the south.
• Size: It covers an area of about 41.1 million square miles (106.5 million square kilometers).
• Depth: The average depth of the Atlantic Ocean is approximately 12,000 feet (3,660 meters).
• Major Currents: The Atlantic Ocean is known for its major currents, including the Gulf Stream, North Atlantic Drift, and Canary Current.
• Islands: It is home to numerous islands, including the British Isles, the Azores, the Canary Islands, and the Caribbean islands.

Study Guide

To understand the Atlantic Ocean, it is important to explore its physical characteristics, marine life, and human impact. Here are some key topics to study:

Physical Characteristics

• Learn about the ocean's depth and its major features, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Sargasso Sea.
• Understand the ocean's climate patterns and the impact of major currents on global weather systems.
• Explore the formation of hurricanes and their impact on coastal regions bordering the Atlantic.

Marine Life

• Study the diverse marine ecosystems within the Atlantic Ocean, including coral reefs, deep-sea habitats, and coastal wetlands.
• Learn about the migration patterns of marine species, such as whales, dolphins, and various fish species.
• Understand the importance of marine conservation efforts to protect the ocean's biodiversity.

Human Impact

• Examine the historical significance of the Atlantic Ocean in terms of exploration, trade, and colonization.
• Discuss the impact of human activities, such as fishing, shipping, and offshore oil drilling, on the health of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Explore current efforts to address pollution, overfishing, and climate change in the Atlantic Ocean.

By studying these aspects of the Atlantic Ocean, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of this vital body of water and its significance to our planet.

[Atlantic Ocean] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Continents and OceansSocial Studies • Third Grade
• Earth's oceansScience • Fifth Grade