Southern Ocean

The Southern Ocean is the newest of the world's oceans, having been designated as a separate body of water by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000. It is the fourth-largest of the world's five oceans and is located around the continent of Antarctica. The Southern Ocean is unique in that it is the only ocean to have a single, continuous current - the Antarctic Circumpolar Current - which flows from west to east around the continent.

Key Facts about the Southern Ocean:

• Location: Surrounding Antarctica
• Size: Fourth-largest of the world's five oceans
• Current: Antarctic Circumpolar Current
• Wildlife: Home to a diverse range of marine life, including whales, seals, and penguins
• Climate: Characterized by extremely cold temperatures and ice cover

Study Guide:

If you are studying the Southern Ocean, here are some key points to focus on:

1. What is the significance of the Southern Ocean in terms of global ocean currents?
2. Describe the unique wildlife that inhabits the waters of the Southern Ocean.
3. How does the climate of the Southern Ocean differ from that of other oceans?
4. Explain the process by which the Southern Ocean was officially designated as a separate ocean.

Be sure to study maps and diagrams of the Southern Ocean to understand its location and relationship to the other oceans. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the environmental challenges facing the Southern Ocean, such as climate change and overfishing.

Good luck with your studies!

[Southern Ocean] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• The Movement of Ocean WaterScience • Eighth Grade