Why does temperature decrease with depth underwater?

AI Thread Summary
Deep ocean water is colder than surface water primarily due to the lack of sunlight penetration, which affects temperature distribution. Increased pressure typically raises temperature, but in this case, the cold temperatures at depth are influenced by factors like thermohaline circulation and density variations. Density depends on temperature, with colder water being denser, which contributes to the stratification of ocean layers. The discussion highlights that while the statement about temperature and density is true in tropical regions, it may not hold at polar locations. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending oceanic behavior.
youngdylz
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Seems like an easy question yet I can't find an answer. Obviously the surface layer of the ocean gets more sunlight but I don't think that is the reason deep water is colder. The increase in pressure usually increases the temperature but this seems to be the exception. Thanks for taking the time to answer
 
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How does density depend upon temperature?
 
Bystander said:
How does density depend upon temperature?
aha seems I was looking in all the wrong places. Thank you
 
Before asking why something is true, you should first ask if it is true. Your statement is true in the tropics. Is it true at the poles?
 

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