The Dead Sea is actually a salt lake that lies in southwestern Asia between Jordan on the east and Israel and the West Bank on the west. Its salt content, about seven times that of the ocean, is so high that only microbes (microscopic organisms) are able to live in it.

Physical features

The Dead Sea is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) long and 10 miles (16 kilometers) wide. Its surface is 1,302 feet (397 meters) below sea level, making it the lowest body of water on Earth. Its greatest depth is in the north, where it is about 1,309 feet (399 meters) deep. The Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea from the north. No river flows out of the lake.

The land surrounding the Dead Sea is a desert. The hot summer temperatures cause the lake's water to evaporate at a high rate, estimated at about 55 inches (1,400 millimeters) per year. This rapid evaporation often creates a thick mist above the lake.

Because of the low rainfall and high evaporation rate, a high concentration of salt has built up in the Dead Sea over the years. The lake contains about 25 percent solids (salts and other substances) and is so dense that bathers float easily on it.

Economy

History

The Dead Sea was formed millions of years ago. Many people believe that the ancient biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah may now be submerged in the Dead Sea. Many also believe that the Jewish people who left behind the biblical manuscripts known as the Dead Sea Scrolls may have found shelter in the nearby caves. These are just two of many ways in which the Dead Sea has figured in biblical events. The lake was known in those days by several different names, including the Salt Sea, the Sea of the Plain, and the East Sea.