The abyssal zone is the deepest part of the ocean, located below 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) and extending to the ocean floor. This zone is characterized by extreme darkness, high pressure, and low temperatures. The abyssal zone is home to a variety of unique creatures that have adapted to the harsh conditions of this deep, dark environment.
Definitions
The abyssal zone is defined as the region of the ocean floor that lies at depths greater than 2,000 meters (6,600 feet). It is also referred to as the abyssopelagic zone or the deep sea. The abyssal zone is one of the five major oceanic zones, including the epipelagic zone, the mesopelagic zone, the bathypelagic zone, and the hadal zone.
Origin
The term “abyssal” comes from the Greek word “abyssos,” which means “bottomless.” The abyssal zone was first explored in the late 19th century by oceanographers using deep-sea diving equipment and submersibles. The discovery of the abyssal zone revolutionized our understanding of the ocean and the diversity of life that exists within it.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the abyssal zone is “the part of the ocean floor below the bathyal zone, characterized by complete darkness and a temperature near freezing.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines the abyssal zone as “the part of the ocean floor below the bathyal zone, characterized by very low temperatures and high pressure.”
Associations
The abyssal zone is associated with extreme darkness, high pressure, and low temperatures. It is also associated with a variety of unique and fascinating creatures that have adapted to the harsh conditions of this deep, dark environment.
Synonyms
Synonyms for the abyssal zone include the abyssopelagic zone, the deep sea, and the abyss.
Antonyms
Antonyms for the abyssal zone include the epipelagic zone, the mesopelagic zone, the bathypelagic zone, and the hadal zone.
The same root words
The root word for abyssal is “abyss,” which means “bottomless.” Other words with the same root include abyssopelagic, abyssal plain, and abyssal hill.
Example Sentences
- The abyssal zone is home to a variety of unique and fascinating creatures.
- The pressure in the abyssal zone is so high that it would crush most submarines.
- Scientists are still exploring the depths of the abyssal zone and discovering new species.
- The abyssal zone is one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
- The abyssal zone is an important area for studying oceanography and the diversity of life in the ocean.