Question

the graphs below show the change in temperature and salinity of a region of ocean as an instrument is lowered below the surface. depth is measured in kilometers below the surface, temperature in degrees celsius, and salinity in parts per thousand. what is the most valid conclusion based on the data? the water in the ocean gets warmer as the salinity increases. higher salinity at shallow depths prevents the ocean from freezing. low concentrations of salt in the deep ocean keep the water cold. salinity is less stable at shallower depths than at deeper depths.

Explanation:

By observing the graph, as depth increases, temperature decreases and salinity changes in a non - linear way. At shallow depths, salinity is relatively high and more variable compared to deeper depths where it is more stable. There is no clear indication of a direct relationship between temperature and salinity increase as stated in the first option. There is no evidence in the graph about preventing freezing or salt concentration keeping water cold. The graph shows that salinity has more fluctuations at shallower depths.

Answer:

Salinity is less stable at shallower depths than at deeper depths.