OCEANS

Oceans are vast bodies of saltwater that cover about 71% of the Earth's surface and contain roughly 97% of the planet's water. They play a crucial role in Earth's climate, weather systems, and the global ecosystem. There are five main oceans:

1. Pacific Ocean: The largest and deepest ocean, located between the Americas to the east and Asia and Australia to the west. It is known for the Ring of Fire, a major area of volcanic activity.

2. Atlantic Ocean: The second-largest ocean, bounded by the Americas to the west and Europe and Africa to the east. It features the Gulf Stream, a powerful warm ocean current.

3. Indian Ocean: Located mainly between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its warm waters and monsoon weather patterns.

4. Southern Ocean: Also known as the Antarctic Ocean, it encircles Antarctica and extends to 60 degrees south latitude. It is characterized by its cold waters and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

5. Arctic Ocean: The smallest and shallowest ocean, located around the Arctic region. It is largely covered by sea ice for most of the year and is home to unique ecosystems and marine life.