Oceanography

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the apparent deflection of moving objects (like winds and currents) caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis.

Front

What are the two types of water currents?

Back

The two types of water currents are surface currents and deep currents.

Front

What are spring tides?

Back

Spring tides are the tides with the biggest difference between high tide and low tide, occurring when the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned.

Front

What do arrows in oceanography diagrams typically represent?

Back

In oceanography diagrams, arrows usually represent currents.

Front

What is the continental shelf?

Back

The continental shelf is the underwater land that extends from the edges of continents to the ocean floor.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Earth's rotation, and differences in water temperature and salinity.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep currents?

Back

Surface currents are found in the upper layer of the ocean and are driven by wind, while deep currents are driven by differences in water density.

Front

What are neap tides?

Back

Neap tides are tides with the smallest difference between high tide and low tide, occurring when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other.

Front

How do tides affect marine life?

Back

Tides influence feeding, breeding, and migration patterns of marine life by exposing and submerging habitats.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the measure of the amount of salt dissolved in water, which affects water density and marine ecosystems.