Jul 13, 2025 · The ocean covers more than 70% of Earth’s surface and contains 97% of the planet’s water. This vast, critical reservoir supports a abundance of life and helps regulate Earth’s climate.

Jul 2, 2025 · Understanding how the ocean works is foundational to understanding life on this planet and to the discipline of oceanography. Get to know the big systems of the ocean: its cycles, circulation, zones, and connection to the atmosphere. Learn about ocean chemistry, life and landscapes on the seafloor, plate movements, shorelines, and icy regions.

Dec 19, 2024 · The ocean water column is made up of five zones: the sunlight (epipelagic), twilight (mesopelagic), midnight (bathypelagic), abyssal (abyssopelagic) and hadal zones (trenches).

Discover the Ocean Learning Hub—your gateway to trusted ocean science content. Easily explore by topic, media type, grade level, and educational standards.

Feb 6, 2025 · Ocean circulation refers to the flow of water throughout the world's oceans, which acts as a fundamental driver of Earth's climate. This continuous movement redistributes heat, cycles essential nutrients for marine life, and affects …

3 days ago · Oceans Before altering the air, microbes oxygenated large swaths of the sea Hundreds of millions of years before oxygen surged in the atmosphere 2.4 billion years ago, swaths of oxygen winked in ...

Without the ocean, life as we know it wouldn't be possible. There are a number of key reasons why. First, the ocean is the largest source of oxygen on Earth. According to scientists, approximately half of the planet's oxygen production originates from the sea. Most of this oxygen is created in the top 200 meters (656 feet) of the ocean's surface. Within this depth, sunlight …

Apr 29, 2024 · Ocean warming enhances hurricane activity, bleaches coral reefs and melts Antarctic sea ice. That warming has been off the charts for the past year.

Jan 30, 2013 · Incredible diversity exists in the ocean, from microscopic organisms to the largest animals on Earth.

Sep 26, 2024 · Ocean culture and history explore the many ways people have interacted with the sea over time. From ancient maritime traditions and early navigation to modern ocean exploration and conservation, the ocean has long influenced human societies, economies, and worldviews. Today, that relationship continues through scientific discovery, engineering innovation, and a …