Lead image: Mentalfloss
The Earth we live on is filled with just so many wonders; some of which are yet to be discovered and some, already discovered. I know before today, you have probably heard of the 'Dead Sea', but how much have you actually heard?
DESCRIPTION
Deriving its name from certain unique characteristics it possesses, the Dead Sea is the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. Having a depth of about 997Ā ft, It is Earth's lowest elevation on land. Yeah, more like the deepest place on Earth!
As of 2011, the Dead Sea has a salinity of 342 g/kg (that's about 9.6 times as salty as the ocean), making it one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. The density of the water is about 1.24Ā kg/liter, which could be seen as quite weird for a waterbody.
The dead sea is endorheic in nature i.e, Water from various water channels flows into it, But it has no external water channels. It is, however, inwardly drained with theĀ Jordan RiverĀ serving as the only major water source flowing into the Dead Sea.
Generally, the Dead Sea has quite a hot climate with basically sunny skies throughout the year. Average annual rainfall is less than 50 millimeters and temperatures range between 32 and 39Ā Ā°C (90 and 102Ā Ā°F) in summer and about 20 and 23Ā Ā°C (68 and 73Ā Ā°F) in winter.
LOCATION
The Dead Sea is a saltwater lake located between Isreal and the west bank of Jordan. It lies somewhere in the Judean desert of southern Israel, bordered by Jordan to the East. The Jordan River serves as its main source of fill.
WHY IT IS CALLED THE DEAD SEA
The origin of the Dead Sea's name can be traced as far as back in ancient times- The Hebrews called it Yam-A-Melah meaning Sea of Salt.
Most parts of the name origin have claims based on the fact that the dead sea has very high salinity nature and therefore, the water is devoid of life forms in its most parts. Literally, most creatures including plants and microorganisms have little to no chances of survival in the extremely harsh saltwater.
Actually, as years have turned out, the dead sea has earned itself some other names like the East Sea, the Sea of Lot, the Sea of the Arabah, the Sea of Sodom, the Primordial Sea, and even the Devilās Sea.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RED SEA
The Dead Sea has certain minerals and salts that are particular to it. These minerals, present in the waters and mud, are globally renowned for the therapeutic effect they have on the human skin. And the minerals of the Dead Sea have helped improve various skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and acne.
The mud of the Sea can be covered on the body to help in the absorption of the minerals by the skin.
Asides from skin diseases, the mud has also been known to provide relief for arthritis.
Due to having huge amounts of salt concentration, the Dead Sea is also being utilized for other various purposes including the manufacture of potash. So, therefore, water is usually being extracted from the sea on a regular basis.
TOURISM
Over the years, due to a lot of fascinating characteristics of the Dead Sea, it has proven itself as a worthy tourist attraction for people from all over the world.
On a yearly basis, a lot of people can be seen visiting the place. Most tourists could decide to try and swim in the water that makes you seem weightless, while some could be seen covering their faces and bodies with the fascinating black mud of the wonderous 'Dead Sea'.
In an actual sense, it is almost impossible to swim in the Dead Sea as the water has a huge concentration of salt accounting for its high density. You will literally float if you attempt to take a bath in the mysterious lake.
Here are some amazing photos that were taken by tourists in the Dead Sea;
Overall, a lot of people have seemed to have positive opinions concerning the Dead Sea in general. Do you think the salty water body of turquoise waters is even worth it?
Hey, Thank you for taking the time to read this. Kindly comment your opinions in the comment section :)
