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Few bodies of water hold as much significant historic, geographic, and
religious importance as the Dead Sea. Ancient Egyptians and Jewish and
Islamic traditions alone have put the Dead Sea on the map. It also
stands as a unique location for health and spa treatments, and tourists
love to go there for a nice day at the beach. Here are some Truly
Fascinating Facts About The Dead Sea.
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It's called "dead" because of its high salinity.
High saline levels make it impossible for plants, fish, and other larger
organisms to live in the Dead Sea, hence the word “dead.” However,
smaller organisms like bacteria have been found in craters at the bottom
of the lake. |
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It's not really a sea.
It may be called the Dead Sea, but it’s technically an endorheic salt
lake with the Jordan river flowing into it. It retains all the water and
does not flow into any other lakes, seas, or oceans. |
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It's 9.6 times as salty as the ocean.
Speaking of the high salinity, it has so much concentrated salt that the
entire ocean’s salt is like a drop in the bucket compared to it. Even
though freshwater from the Jordan river runs into it, that water has
nowhere to go and is forced to evaporate, creating a cycle of highly
salinated water. |
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Rocks dissolved by rainwater make it so salty.
So, why is the Dead Sea so salty? The short answer is rainwater. All
rainwater has certain acids when carbon monoxide combines with water.
Over time this rain breaks down the rocks, turning them into ions such
as sodium and chloride, also known as salt. |
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It has a very unique climate.
Surrounded by an arid and desert landscape, the Dead Sea has
approximately 330 sunny days a year with low humidity and little
rainfall. The temperatures range from 60 to 100 degrees throughout the
year. But what makes it unique is that it’s the only place on Earth
where you can sunbathe for long periods with little to no sunburn
because of the three natural layers of protection it has against UV
rays.
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The thick salt allows people to easily float.
If you’re not a fan of swimming, then the Dead Sea might be up your
alley. The water is so thick with salt that people can effortlessly
float without sinking.
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The air contains extra oxygen.
Thanks to the unique climate, the Dead Sea has extra oxygen and bromine
levels which provide a nice, relaxing effect.
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It's a popular place for health research.
Since ancient times, people thought the Dead Sea to be good for your
health. Ever since it’s been a haven and popular spot for scientists and
medical professionals to study how it can help cure skin related
diseases.
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