Which Ocean Is Divided Into Two Parts?

Our planet is a beautiful, blue planet that is mostly covered in water. Scientists usually identify five major oceans: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, and Arctic.

The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on our planet. Its massive size has earned it the title "King of Oceans".

But here is a mystery for you. Did you know that one of these oceans is officially split into two parts, North and South? 

It is the second-largest ocean in the world and lies between the Americas and Europe. In this article, we will examine the history, geography, and reasons behind this famous split.

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Which Ocean Is Divided Into Two Parts Of The World?

Source: India Map

The ocean is split into two parts: the Atlantic Ocean. It lies between the Americas to the west and Europe and Africa to the east. Geographers separate it into the North Atlantic and the South Atlantic.

The main reason for this split is the Equator. This invisible line circles the centre of the Earth and acts as the boundary. Each half has its own unique water currents and weather patterns.

For example, the North Atlantic is home to the famous Gulf Stream. The Atlantic is the second-largest ocean on Earth and is growing slightly wider every year. It is a vital route for global trade and travel.

10+ Lesser-known Facts About the Atlantic Ocean

• The Atlantic gets about 1.5 inches wider every year due to seafloor spreading at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
• It contains the world's longest mountain range, which is almost entirely underwater.
• The deepest spot is the Milwaukee Deep in the Puerto Rico Trench, reaching about 27,480 feet.
• This famous area of mystery is located in the North Atlantic between Florida, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico.
• The Sargasso Sea is the only sea on Earth that has no land boundaries; it is defined entirely by four ocean currents.
• The Titanic, the world's most famous shipwreck, lies 12,500 feet down on the North Atlantic seabed.
• The Bay of Fundy in the Atlantic has the highest tides on the planet, rising up to 50 feet.
• The Atlantic is generally saltier than the Pacific because of high evaporation and low rainfall in certain areas.
• The first successful Transatlantic telegraph cable was laid across the ocean floor in 1866.
• The Porcupine Abyssal Plain is a vast, flat "desert" on the ocean floor that is home to unique deep-sea creatures.
• It provides nearly 25% of the world's total fish catch, making it vital for global food security.

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North Atlantic vs. South Atlantic: In a Nutshell

While they are part of the same body of water, the two halves of the Atlantic have very different features. This table outlines the main differences for easy reference:

Why Does the Split Matter?

The division isn’t just for maps. Scientists study the two parts separately because the oceanic conveyor belt operates differently in each section.

The North Atlantic works like a giant heater for Europe, while the South Atlantic helps control the climate of the Southern Hemisphere. Understanding these differences helps us predict weather patterns and protect marine life.

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