Ocean, weather, and Climate Flashcard

Front

What causes El Nino and La Nina events?

Back

Changing wind patterns are responsible for El Nino and La Nina events, which significantly affect global weather patterns.

Front

What keeps the global ocean conveyor belt in perpetual motion?

Back

Density differences in seawater, caused by variations in temperature and salinity, drive the global ocean conveyor belt.

Front

What is the primary storehouse of Earth's water?

Back

The ocean is the primary storehouse of Earth's water, containing about 97% of the planet's water supply.

Front

Which force drives the ocean and atmospheric circulation?

Back

Heat from the sun drives both ocean and atmospheric circulation, influencing weather and climate.

Front

What drives currents at the ocean's surface?

Back

Winds are the primary drivers of surface currents in the ocean, affecting marine navigation and climate.

Front

Define ocean conveyor belt.

Back

The ocean conveyor belt is a large-scale movement of ocean water driven by density differences, temperature, and salinity, which plays a crucial role in regulating climate.

Front

What is the role of the Coriolis effect in ocean currents?

Back

The Coriolis effect causes moving air and water to turn and twist, influencing the direction of ocean currents and weather patterns.

Front

Explain the greenhouse effect.

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.

Front

What is the significance of ocean temperature in climate regulation?

Back

Ocean temperature influences weather patterns, sea level rise, and the distribution of marine life, playing a critical role in climate regulation.

Front

What are the main components of the water cycle?

Back

The main components of the water cycle include evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff.