Arctic Ocean

Arctic Ocean - en

Decrease of old Arctic Sea ice 1982-2007

Cambridge Bay Thule Site 1998-06-28

Map of the Arctic, 1780s - B&W

Map of the Arctic region showing the Northeast Passage, the Northern Sea Route and Northwest Passage, and bathymetry

Arctic Ocean

The Arctic Ocean is the smallest and shallowest of the world's five major oceans. It is located in the Northern Hemisphere and mostly in the Arctic north polar region. The Arctic Ocean is surrounded by Eurasia and North America, and it is partly covered by sea ice throughout the year, reaching its maximum extent in March and its minimum in September.

Geography

The Arctic Ocean is bounded by the European Arctic, the Siberian Coast, the North American Arctic, and the Greenland Sea. It connects with the Pacific Ocean through the Bering Strait and with the Atlantic Ocean through several passages, including the Fram Strait, the Denmark Strait, and the Norwegian Sea. The ocean's major islands include Ellesmere Island, Svalbard, Franz Josef Land, and Novaya Zemlya.

Climate

The climate of the Arctic Ocean is characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The presence of sea ice has a significant impact on the climate, as it reflects sunlight and insulates the relatively warm ocean water. However, the extent of sea ice is decreasing due to global warming, which has implications for global climate patterns.

Ecology

The Arctic Ocean has a unique and fragile ecosystem. Its marine life includes polar bears, seals, walruses, and various species of whales and fish. The ocean is also home to many types of phytoplankton and zooplankton, which are crucial to the food chain. The changing climate and melting sea ice threaten the Arctic ecosystem, impacting the habitats of many species.

Economic and Human Activity

Human activity in the Arctic Ocean includes fishing, shipping, and oil and gas exploration. However, these activities are challenging due to the harsh climate, ice cover, and environmental regulations designed to protect the Arctic's fragile environment. Indigenous peoples have inhabited the Arctic region for thousands of years, and their cultures and livelihoods are closely tied to the Arctic environment.

Environmental Concerns

The Arctic Ocean is facing several environmental threats, including climate change, ocean acidification, and pollution. The reduction in sea ice due to global warming is the most visible sign of environmental change in the Arctic. This has potential consequences for global weather patterns, sea levels, and the habitats of marine and terrestrial wildlife.

Exploration and Research

The Arctic Ocean has been a focus of exploration for centuries, from early voyages seeking the Northwest Passage to modern scientific research on climate change. Research stations and icebreakers allow scientists to study the ocean's physical, chemical, and biological properties. Understanding the Arctic Ocean is crucial for predicting future climate change and its global impacts.