Why is the surface salinity in the tropics so much higher than that of the equator or high latitudes?
A)There is a higher evaporation rate and a lower rate of precipitation in the tropics.
B)There is a lower evaporation rate and a higher rate of precipitation in the tropics.
C)There are more continents in the tropics and thus more sediment weathered.
D)There is a large influx of freshwater from rivers along the equator.

Question

Why is the surface salinity in the tropics so much higher than that of the equator or high latitudes? 
A)There is a higher evaporation rate and a lower rate of precipitation in the tropics. 
B)There is a lower evaporation rate and a higher rate of precipitation in the tropics. 
C)There are more continents in the tropics and thus more sediment weathered. 
D)There is a large influx of freshwater from rivers along the equator.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tropics receive high levels of solar radiation, which causes a high rate of evaporation. In addition, the trade winds blow from east to west in the tropics, causing a buildup of warm, salty surface waters in the western tropical oceans. This can lead to a decrease in precipitation in these areas, which further increases salinity levels. In contrast, the equator and high latitudes receive more precipitation and have lower rates of evaporation, leading to lower surface salinity levels.

Why Is the Surface Salinity in the Tropics So Much