Because salinity (in concert with temperature) affects the density of seawater, it can play a role in its vertical stratification. Essentially, lower salinity water (= lower density) floats on top of higher salinity water (= higher density).
Alternative definition, a choice limited to one of two or more possibilities, as of things, propositions, or courses of action, the selection of which precludes any other possibility: You have the alternative of riding or walking. See more.
Alternately is an adverb that means in turn; one after the other: âWe alternately spun the wheel in the game.â Alternatively is an adverb that means on the other hand; one or the other: âYou can choose a large bookcase or, alternatively, you can buy two small ones.â.