The top of the ocean is commonly referred to as the “surface”. This is where the water meets the air, creating an interface between the ocean and the atmosphere. The surface is crucial for various processes, including the exchange of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide, which are vital for marine life and climate regulation.
Moreover, the ocean surface plays a key role in determining weather patterns and ocean currents. It’s where sunlight penetrates, enabling photosynthesis for the phytoplankton that forms the base of the ocean’s food web. The characteristics of the surface, such as temperature and salinity, can greatly influence the ecosystem and marine life below.