Why the Ocean Looks Blue

Description:
The blue appearance of the ocean is related to how sunlight interacts with water.

Light beneath the surface

Sunlight contains many different wavelengths. Water absorbs some wavelengths more strongly than others, while blue light can travel farther through water before being absorbed.

The color of the ocean can also vary depending on depth, particles in the water, algae, weather, and the position of the sun.

Ocean colors can vary

Deep blue: often associated with deeper, clearer water.

Green: can occur when there are more particles or microscopic organisms.

Turquoise: often appears in shallow water over light-colored seabeds.