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The World Factbook

Atlantic Ocean

Photos of Atlantic Ocean

Three fin whales – also known as finback whales – swimming in the Atlantic. Fin whales are filter-feeders, feeding on small schooling fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are also one of the fastest of cetaceans and can sustain speeds between 37 and 41 km/h (23 to 25 mph) and bursts up to 46 km/h (29 mph) have been recorded, earning the fin whale the nickname "the greyhound of the sea." Photo courtesy of NOAA Fisheries.

Introduction

World Factbook Glyph

Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.

Geography

Major ocean currents

Major World Ocean Currents:
Major World Ocean Currents

Bathymetry

Figure 1. Profile of the sea floor:
Figure 1. Profile of the sea floor
Figure 2. North Atlantic:
Figure 2. North Atlantic
Figure 3: South Atlantic sea floor:
Figure 3: South Atlantic sea floor
Figure 4: Mediterranean Sea:
Figure 4: Mediterranean Sea
Figure 5. Caribbean Basin and Western Atlantic:
Figure 5. Caribbean Basin and Western Atlantic

Elevation

Distance Sunlight Travels in the Ocean:
Distance Sunlight Travels in the Ocean

Environment

Government

Transportation