The Atlantic Ocean is the second largest ocean in the world, covering an area of about 41,105,000 square miles (106,460,000 square kilometers). It stretches from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the Antarctic Ocean in the south, between the continents of America to the west and Europe, Africa, and Antarctica to the east.
Geography
- Area: Approximately 41.1 million square miles
- Depth: The average depth is about 12,100 feet (3,688 meters), with the deepest point being the Milwaukee Deep in the Puerto Rico Trench at 27,493 feet (8,380 meters).
- Islands: Includes numerous islands, with significant ones like Greenland, Iceland, the Azores, the Canary Islands, and many Caribbean islands.
History
The Atlantic Ocean has been a central stage for human history:
Physical Characteristics
Biodiversity
The Atlantic Ocean supports a diverse ecosystem:
- Marine life includes whales, dolphins, seals, various species of fish, and numerous types of coral reefs.
- Endangered Species: Species like the North Atlantic right whale are critically endangered due to human activities.
- Protected Areas: Various marine protected areas and reserves exist to conserve its biodiversity.
Human Impact and Conservation
- Pollution: The ocean faces threats from pollution, including plastics, oil spills, and chemical runoff.
- Overfishing: Overfishing has led to declines in many fish populations, prompting regulations and sustainable fishing practices.
- Climate Change: The Atlantic Ocean is also affected by global warming, leading to rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and changes in marine ecosystems.
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