Understand that ocean water contains a variety of dissolved ions, but the most abundant ions are those that contribute the most to its salinity.
Recall that the major ions in seawater are primarily sodium (Na^+) and chloride (Cl^-), which together make up the majority of the dissolved salts.
Recognize that other ions like Ca^{2+}, SO_4^{2-}, Mg^{2+}, HCO_3^-, K^+, and NO_3^- are present but in much smaller concentrations compared to Na^+ and Cl^-.
Use knowledge of seawater composition, which shows that Na^+ and Cl^- ions dominate due to their high concentration and role in ocean salinity.
Conclude that the two most abundant ions in ocean water are Na^+ and Cl^-.