Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest ocean on Earth and plays a crucial role in global climate regulation through thermohaline circulation. Understanding Atlantic dynamics provides essential insights for designing ocean systems in terraformed worlds.

Characteristics

• Area: 106.5 million km²
• Average depth: 3,332 meters
• Maximum depth: 8,486 meters (Puerto Rico Trench)
• S-shaped basin between continents
• Mid-Atlantic Ridge - active spreading center

Climate Regulation

Thermohaline Circulation

• Gulf Stream - warm water transport northward
• Deep water formation in polar regions
• Global conveyor belt circulation pattern
• Heat redistribution from equator to poles

Weather Patterns

• Hurricane formation and development
• Storm track influence on continental weather
• Seasonal temperature moderation for coastal regions
• Evaporation source for precipitation patterns

Terraforming Applications

Ocean Design

• Basin geometry effects on circulation
• Thermal regulation through ocean currents
• Climate stability through thermal mass
• Weather pattern control systems

Marine Ecosystems

• Primary productivity zones establishment
• Deep ocean ecosystem development
• Migration routes for marine life
• Carbon cycling through marine organisms

Resource Management

• Fisheries development for food security
• Mineral extraction from ocean floor
• Energy generation from ocean currents
• Transportation routes for global connectivity

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