The Atlantic Ocean is one of the largest. Its area is the second largest after the Pacific and is 91.66 million square kilometers. It washes the shores of Europe, Africa, North and South America. The nature and relief of the Atlantic Ocean are very diverse. All the features of this part of the world's oceans have not yet been studied, and therefore it is of interest to scientists and researchers around the world.
There are two versions of the origin of its name. According to one, this is connected with the ancient Greek titan Atlas, and on the other, with the mythical island of Atlantis.
The Atlantic Ocean has some individual characteristics. Its coastline is severely indented. It is characterized by the presence of a large number of seas and bays. If we compare it with other oceans, the number of rivers flowing into the Atlantic Ocean is the most significant.
This part of the world's oceans is distinguished by a relatively small number of islands. A feature of the relief are multiple depressions and ridges. It can be called the most difficult. On the territory of the Atlantic Ocean there are many pits and gutters. The bottom topography changes under the influence of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, which are present in large numbers on its territory. Many of the volcanoes reach a height of 5 kilometers.
The Atlantic Ocean also has a special climate. This is due to the large length along the meridian. Water temperature also depends on the influence of the Arctic Ocean, with which the exchange of currents occurs. From this side numerous icebergs reach the ocean, reaching even tropical waters.
Features of climate and topography characterize its biological world. The fauna of the Atlantic Ocean is diverse and uneven. In temperate and high latitudes, a large amount of biomass is observed with the scarcity of species. In the tropics and subtropics, species diversity is large. As for any part of the oceans of these latitudes, the presence of large mammals is characteristic. Here you can see fur seals, seals and representatives of the cetacean family. The Atlantic Ocean is the habitat of almost all species of whales. However, their population was significantly reduced due to human intervention in nature and extermination.
The ocean is the largest fishing site. Its fauna is rich in various species of fish, which are caught in large quantities. This leads to a reduction in the populations of certain species. In the Atlantic Ocean live: halibut, herring, sea bass, cod, sprat and other commercial fish. In addition, many mammals are also subject to hunting and fishing. In this regard, many inhabitants of the Atlantic Ocean are on the verge of extinction. The animal world is capable of self-reproduction, but for this it is necessary to reduce human intervention.
Features of the Atlantic Ocean include the Gulf Stream. It is considered one of the largest. Its warm waters make the climate of many coastal states milder.
The Gulf Stream is powerful. Its consumption is 50 million cubic meters. And thermal power can replace one million nuclear power plants.
Another feature is a large blue hole. This is a cave, which has the shape of a bowl and a depth of only 120 meters. Its bright waters border the dark waters of the ocean and create an unusual effect.
The biggest mystery of the Atlantic Ocean is the mythical mainland or the island of Atlantis. According to legend, he went under water with the inhabitants.
The world and nature of the Atlantic Ocean have not yet been fully explored. They remain a mystery that many scientists are trying to solve for the benefit of all mankind.