The Arctic Ocean is the smallest and shallowest of the world's five major oceans. It is located around the North Pole and is bordered by several countries, including Canada, Russia, and Greenland. The ocean is covered by sea ice for much of the year, which affects its climate and ecosystems. The Arctic Ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and is home to unique wildlife, such as polar bears, walruses, and various species of seals. It also contains important natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, which are increasingly being explored as ice melts due to climate change.