Topic: Salient features of world’s physical geography. Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.,
2. Explain the reasons for the formation of Sargasso Sea. Also, examine the factors for it being a region with one of the highest ocean salinity. (250 words)
Reference: Physical Geography by Savindra Singh
Why this question:
The question is from the static portions of GS paper I, based on the theme of formation of Sargasso Sea.
Key demand of the question:
The answer must explain the factors responsible for the formation of Sargasso Sea and as well discuss the reasons for high ocean salinity.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Mention the location and features of Sargasso Sea in brief.
Body:
The Sargasso Sea is a vast patch of sea in the North Atlantic Ocean located between latitudes 20N and 35 N and longitudes 30W and 70W, named for a genus of free-floating seaweed called Sargassum. It is the only sea in the world without a land boundary.
Explain the reasons behind formation of Sargasso Sea.
Write about the Salinity of Sargasso Sea and the various factors responsible for its high salinity; Sargasso Sea is characterized by a high salt content of 36 ‰which is a distinct feature of the sea. It can be attributed to the following factors – Prevention of mixing of fresh water from surrounding oceans and poles due to virtual boundary created by the ocean currents, Low wind conditions also prevent intermixing with fresh water, High temperature in the region owing to its subtropical location and very less cloud cover. This causes high evaporation, Gulf Stream brings in high salinity water to the sea etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with importance.
