T-S Diagram

Definition:

The diagram by which the salinity & temperature of the sea water are expressed is called T-S diagram.

Prepared:

T-S Diagram was prepared by Helland Harsenin (1916) with the objective to determine the density of water at various depth.

Characteristics:

1. The Temperature ‘T’ & Salinity ‘S’ observed at the particular depth are represented by a single point in this diagram.
2. The plotted points of T & S generally fall on a well defined curve, in which temperature & salinity decrease together.
3. The density of water tends to increase with depth.
4. In T-S Diagram, it may be observed that many combinations of temperature & salinity can yield the same density.
5. In T-S Diagram, it may be observed that the density of water tends to increase with depth. 

Diagrammatic Example:

Significance:

1. The T-S Diagram is a tool of great utility in Oceanography.
2. The T-S Diagram is the way to visualize layering of water.
3. The T-S Diagram helps in the delimitation of water masses.
4. It also helps in understanding the circulation pattern of water at various depths.
5. It also helps in understanding the upwelling & downwelling in ocean water.

Critically Analysis:

Merit:

1. The T-S Diagram is the way to visualize layering of water.
2. The T-S Diagram helps in the delimitation of water masses.
3. It also helps in understanding the circulation pattern of water at various depths.
4. It also helps in understanding the upwelling & downwelling in ocean water.

Demerit:

1. Ocean temperature & salinity is changes due to various factors. As a result correct diagram not found.
2. In many time value of temperature & salinity is incorrect.

‹Conclusion:

T-S Diagram stands for temperature & salinity in the oceans. In the T-S Diagram Salinity & Temperature are plotted against each other.