While no ocean water literally appears golden in color, the question refers to the presence of dissolved gold within the ocean. Specifically, the question is really: Which oceans contain dissolved gold?
Based on available research, it's accurate to state that both the Atlantic and North Pacific oceans contain dissolved gold.
Gold Content in Ocean Water
Although the oceans hold vast amounts of water, the concentration of gold is extremely low. Here's what we know:
- One study indicates that there's approximately 1 gram of gold for every 100 million metric tons of ocean water in the Atlantic and North Pacific oceans.
- This represents an incredibly dilute solution.
- In addition to dissolved gold, there is also gold present in/on the seafloor in undissolved forms.
The sheer volume of ocean water means that even these tiny amounts of gold, add up to a considerable amount. However, extracting the gold is currently not commercially viable due to the extremely low concentration and high cost of extraction.
Table of Gold in Oceans
| Ocean | Gold Concentration | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Ocean | 1 gram per 100 million metric tons | Also has undissolved gold in/on the seafloor |
| North Pacific Ocean | 1 gram per 100 million metric tons | Also has undissolved gold in/on the seafloor |
It's important to note that while gold is present, it doesn't alter the water's appearance. Ocean water does not shine with a golden hue. The "golden" reference is purely related to the fact that these oceans contain dissolved gold.
