Winds, Currents, Climate , and the GPGP Review

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What is El Nino?

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El Nino is a climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can disrupt normal weather patterns globally.

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What is La Nina?

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La Nina is a climate pattern that represents the cooling of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, often leading to opposite weather effects compared to El Nino.

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What are normal trade winds?

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Normal trade winds are consistent winds that blow from east to west across the tropical Pacific Ocean, helping to maintain stable weather patterns.

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What does biodegradable mean?

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A substance that can be decomposed by bacteria or natural processes, returning to the environment without causing harm.

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What happens to trade winds during an El Nino event?

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During an El Nino, trade winds are typically weaker than average.

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What are the dangers of discarded fishing nets in the ocean?

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Discarded fishing nets can entangle marine life, such as sea turtles, seals, and dolphins, leading to drowning.

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What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP)?

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The GPGP is a large area in the North Pacific Ocean where a high concentration of plastic and other debris has accumulated due to ocean currents.

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How do ocean currents affect climate?

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Ocean currents help regulate global climate by distributing heat from the equator to the poles, influencing weather patterns and temperatures.

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What is the role of ocean currents in marine ecosystems?

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Ocean currents transport nutrients and organisms, supporting diverse marine ecosystems and influencing the distribution of marine species.

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What is photodegradable?

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Photodegradable refers to materials that can break down into smaller pieces when exposed to sunlight, but may not fully decompose.