The Southern Ocean

The Southern Ocean is the newest and the fourth largest of the world's five oceanic divisions. It surrounds Antarctica and is the only ocean to be defined by a current, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. It is also known for its strong winds and rough seas.

Location

The Southern Ocean is located in the southern hemisphere and encircles Antarctica. It is bounded by the southern coasts of South America, Africa, and Australia.

Characteristics

Some key characteristics of the Southern Ocean include:

• Strong winds and currents
• Icebergs and ice shelves
• Rich marine biodiversity

Marine Life

The Southern Ocean is home to a diverse range of marine life, including various species of whales, seals, penguins, and fish. It is also a critical habitat for krill, a small crustacean that forms the base of the Antarctic food web.

Environmental Importance

The Southern Ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and is an important area for scientific research related to climate change and oceanography.

Study Guide Questions:

1. What defines the Southern Ocean? (Answer: The Antarctic Circumpolar Current)
2. Where is the Southern Ocean located? (Answer: In the southern hemisphere, surrounding Antarctica)
3. What are some key characteristics of the Southern Ocean? (Answer: Strong winds and currents, icebergs and ice shelves, rich marine biodiversity)
4. What are some examples of marine life found in the Southern Ocean? (Answer: Whales, seals, penguins, fish, krill)
5. Why is the Southern Ocean environmentally important? (Answer: It regulates the Earth's climate and is crucial for scientific research on climate change and oceanography)

[Southern Ocean] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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