Many elements in seawater are found in constant ratios throughout the ocean because
A) The input of dissolved substances from rivers is broadly constant throughout the ocean
B) Dissolved material in the ocean has been there for millions of years, with no input or removal
C) They remain in the ocean longer than the mixing time
D) This is not true; no elements are generally found in constant ratios

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elements in seawater that are found in constant ratios throughout the ocean are typically those that have residence times longer than the mixing time of the ocean. This means that these elements are mixed thoroughly throughout the ocean before they are removed or added in significant amounts, leading to their constant ratios.

Many Elements in Seawater Are Found in Constant Ratios Throughout