Ocean Currents

Front

What are surface currents primarily driven by?

Back

Winds

Front

What causes surface currents north and south of the equator to move in different directions?

Back

The rotation of the Earth

Front

What are regular movements of ocean water formed by density and are far below the surface called?

Back

Deep Currents

Front

How do warm-water currents affect coastal areas along which they flow?

Back

They make the coastal climate warmer than the inland climate.

Front

What are the two types of water currents?

Back

Surface and Deep

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the deflection of moving objects caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep currents?

Back

Surface currents are found at the top layer of the ocean and are driven by winds, while deep currents are found below the surface and are driven by differences in water density.

Front

What role do temperature differences play in ocean currents?

Back

Temperature differences can create density variations in water, which contribute to the movement of deep currents.

Front

How do ocean currents influence global climate?

Back

Ocean currents help distribute heat around the planet, affecting weather patterns and climate in different regions.

Front

What is the main factor that drives the movement of surface currents?

Back

Winds are the main factor that drives the movement of surface currents.