Palaeomagnetism and water density Flashcards
What is palaeomagnetism?
Traces of changes in the Earths magnetic field in the alignment of magnetic minerals in sedimentary and igneous rock
What is palaeomagnetism linked too?
Seafloor spreading
How does salinity influence water density?
Density increases as salinity increases. When salt dissolves in fresh water, the density of the water increases because the mass of the water increases
What is the thermohaline circulation (ocean conveyor belt)?
Describes movement of water within and between oceans
What is the circulation in the North Atlantic?
Warm saline water flows from off the coast of Florida to the Northeast. Therefore, vast quantities of heat energy which impacts climate of western Europe