Ocean Currents

Front

What is the term for the movement of deep, cold, nutrient-filled water to the surface of the ocean?

Back

Upwelling

Front

What happens to surface currents when they meet continents?

Back

They are deflected (change paths).

Front

What is the name of the warm, strong current off the coast of Florida?

Back

Gulf Stream

Front

What do ocean currents move in the form of?

Back

Heat

Front

What is a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans called?

Back

Gyre

Front

What is the primary driver of surface ocean currents?

Back

Wind.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

They distribute heat around the planet, influencing weather patterns.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep ocean currents?

Back

Surface currents are driven by wind and affect the upper layer of the ocean, while deep ocean currents are driven by density differences due to temperature and salinity.

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

A global system of ocean currents driven by differences in temperature and salinity.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in marine ecosystems?

Back

They help distribute nutrients and organisms, supporting biodiversity.