Bringing the Universe to America's Classrooms
Ocean Circulation in the North Atlantic

Sea Surface Temperature

The unequal heating of Earth’s surface by the Sun results in temperature differences across the ocean. This map shows the long-term average global sea surface temperature. Sea surface temperature is the temperature of the water found in the top few centimeters of the ocean. In this map, yellows and reds represent warmer water temperatures, while blues represent cooler water temperatures. These temperature differences play a role in the movement of ocean currents.
An image titled Sea Surface Temperature.

Click to see larger version

The image shows the temperature of the ocean surface. Different colors on a global map show the long-term average sea surface temperature in degrees Celsius, ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. Shades of red and yellow represent warmer waters, while shades of blue represent cooler waters. Temperatures are highest around the equator (approximately 30 degrees Celsius) and get progressively cooler toward the poles (near 0 degrees Celsius).

Take Notes

Describe the overall pattern of sea surface temperature across the globe. Include in your description where sea surface temperatures are the warmest and where they are the coolest.

Produced by