The global oceanic system can be categorized into four principal oceans, along with an additional one, based on the structure of ocean basins and the spatial distribution of continents.
PACIFIC OCEAN
The Pacific Ocean is the largest oceanic division on Earth, spanning more than half of the planet’s total ocean surface. It constitutes the most extensive geographic formation on the globe, covering over one-third of Earth’s entire surface area. The sheer magnitude of the Pacific is such that it could encompass all existing continents with excess space remaining. In addition to being the deepest of all oceans, the Pacific is dotted with numerous small tropical islands. Its name was bestowed in 1520 by the expedition team of Ferdinand Magellan, who encountered calm waters upon entry—paci meaning peace.
ATLANTIC OCEAN
Roughly half the size of the Pacific, the Atlantic Ocean is relatively shallower in depth. It serves as a major separator between the Old World—Europe, Asia, and Africa—and the New World, comprising North and South America. The name “Atlantic” originates from Atlas, a noteworthy figure in Greek mythology, recognized as one of the Titans.
INDIAN OCEAN
The Indian Ocean is slightly smaller than the Atlantic and exhibits a similar average depth. Located primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, it lies south of the equatorial line. Its name is derived from its geographic proximity to the Indian subcontinent, denoting a significant regional connection.
ARCTIC OCEAN
The Arctic Ocean encompasses only about 7% of the area covered by the Pacific and is just over a quarter as deep as the other major oceans. Although its surface is permanently covered by sea ice, the ice layer is merely a few meters thick. This ocean is named after its location within the Arctic region, situated beneath the northern constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Big Dipper or the Bear (arktos = bear).
SOUTHERN OCEAN, OR ANTARCTIC OCEAN
An additional oceanic body, acknowledged by oceanographers, lies adjacent to the continent of Antarctica in the Southern Hemisphere. Referred to as the Southern Ocean or Antarctic Ocean, it is defined by the convergence of oceanic currents near Antarctica, known as the Antarctic Convergence. This ocean comprises the southernmost portions of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, lying south of approximately 50 degrees south latitude. Its name reflects its distinctive location in the Southern Hemisphere.