What is the role of the ocean in regulating the Earth's heat budget?

The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's heat budget, which is the balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared radiation. It is estimated that the ocean absorbs about 90% of the excess heat generated by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, that contribute to the increase of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The ocean acts as a giant heat sink, with its thermal properties allowing it to store large amounts of heat for long periods of time.

In addition, the ocean helps to distribute heat around the planet through ocean currents, which transport warm water from the equator to the poles and cold water from the poles to the equator. This process, known as thermohaline circulation, helps to regulate regional climates and can influence weather patterns in areas far from the ocean.

However, the ocean's ability to absorb heat and redistribute it through ocean currents is not infinite. As the ocean warms, its capacity to store heat decreases, which can lead to changes in ocean currents and alter regional climates. This process, known as ocean circulation, is an important factor in the Earth's heat budget and plays a critical role in the climate system.