Salinity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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salinity
[sษหlษชnษชti ]
Definitions
oceanography
The concentration of dissolved salts in water, usually expressed in parts per thousand (ppt) or practical salinity units (psu). Salinity affects the density of seawater and plays a major role in ocean circulation.
Synonyms
brininess, saline concentration, salt content.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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salinity |
This term is commonly used in scientific and environmental contexts to measure the amount of salt in water or soil.
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salt content |
Use this term when discussing the amount of salt in food, water, or other substances in everyday contexts.
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brininess |
This word is often used to describe the salty taste of food, especially when talking about pickles, brined foods, or the flavor of the sea.
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saline concentration |
This phrase is typically used in medical and scientific contexts to reference the specific strength of a saline solution, such as in medical treatments or laboratory experiments.
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Examples of usage
- High salinity in the Dead Sea allows for effortless floating.
- Salinity levels in the Atlantic Ocean vary depending on the region.
- Changes in salinity can impact marine organisms.
agriculture
The saltiness of soil or water, which can affect plant growth and crop yield.
Synonyms
saline level, salt concentration, saltiness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
salinity |
Often used in scientific or environmental contexts when discussing the amount of salt in water or soil.
|
saltiness |
Mostly used in everyday language when talking about the taste of food, often with a slightly negative connotation if the food is overly salty.
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saline level |
Common in medical or laboratory settings, referring to the amount of salt in solutions used for treatments or experiments.
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salt concentration |
Used in chemistry, biology, and food science to describe the proportion of salt in a mixture or solution.
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Examples of usage
- Farmers use irrigation techniques to manage soil salinity.
- High salinity in irrigation water can lead to crop damage.
- Measuring soil salinity is essential for successful farming.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Salinity affects water's density; higher salinity means denser water, which impacts ocean currents.
- Oceans generally have a salinity of about 35 parts per thousand, though this can vary with location and climate.
- Changes in salinity can impact marine life and ecosystems, influencing species diversity and habitat health.
Environment
- Increased salinity in freshwater bodies is a concern caused by human activity, leading to ecological imbalances.
- Salinity levels can affect agricultural practices, especially in areas prone to saltwater intrusion in coastal regions.
Weather
- Salinity plays a key role in regulating the Earth's climate by influencing ocean circulation patterns.
- High salinity can lead to phenomena like evaporation and can affect local weather systems, such as rainfall patterns.
Cultural Reference
- In certain cultures, salt is seen as a symbol of preservation and durability, which reflects the importance of salinity in food.
- Historical trade routes often focused on salt, demonstrating its economic significance in shaping societies.
Origin of 'salinity'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'sal', meaning salt, highlighting its connection to salt concentration.
- It first appeared in English texts around the 1790s, mainly in discussions about ocean science.
The word 'salinity' originates from the Latin word 'sal' which means salt. The concept of salinity has been crucial in various fields such as oceanography, agriculture, and environmental science. Understanding and managing salinity levels is essential for the sustainability of ecosystems and human activities.
Word Frequency Rank
Position #9,937 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.
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- 9934 dire
- 9935 sentimental
- 9936 effecting
- 9937 salinity
- 9938 spacious
- 9939 identifiable
- 9940 reckon
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