Tides & Currents

Front

What causes spring tides and neap tides?

Back

The phases of the moon.

Front

Where do neap tides occur in relation to the sun and moon?

Back

Neap tides occur when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, typically in positions 2 and 4 in a diagram.

Front

What type of tide occurs during a full moon or new moon?

Back

Spring tide.

Front

What is the density of cold water?

Back

High.

Front

What is the name of the surface current that flows along the eastern US and brings warm water to Europe?

Back

Gulf Stream.

Front

What are tides?

Back

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the sun.

Front

What is the difference between spring tides and neap tides?

Back

Spring tides are higher high tides and lower low tides that occur during full and new moons, while neap tides are lower high tides and higher low tides that occur during the first and third quarters of the moon.

Front

What role does the moon play in ocean currents?

Back

The moon's gravitational pull affects the movement of water, creating tides and influencing surface currents.

Front

What is a surface current?

Back

A surface current is a horizontal movement of ocean water that is primarily driven by wind.

Front

What is the effect of the Gulf Stream on climate?

Back

The Gulf Stream warms the climate of the eastern United States and Western Europe.