The Sea of Cortez lies in a subtropical region between the Baja Peninsula and the west coast of Mexico. Most of the surrounding land is desert, and the one large river, the Colorado, empties only a small amount of water into the sea. In contrast, the Strait of Georgia lies off the temperate coast of British Columbia and is fed by melting glaciers and many streams. Which of the following comparisons of the salinities of these regions is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Sea of Cortez is in a desert region with low freshwater input and high evaporation, which would cause the water to become saltier. In contrast, the Strait of Georgia is fed by freshwater from melting glaciers and streams, which would make the water less salty. Therefore, option A is the correct comparison. Option B is incorrect because cool temperatures do not promote salt crystallization. Option C is incorrect because numerous rivers would bring freshwater into the sea, making the water less salty. Option D is incorrect because while the oceans are interconnected, some bodies of water can have different salinity levels due to varying factors such as freshwater input and evaporation.

The Sea of Cortez Lies in a Subtropical Region Between