Wind and Ocean Currents

Front

What is the major source of energy that causes surface currents to form?

Back

The sun is the major source of energy that causes surface currents to form.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

Ocean currents that move toward the poles are ___?

Back

Warm.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What type of heat transfer is involved when the Gulf Stream brings warm ocean water from the south to the north?

Back

Convection.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the constantly moving system of deep-ocean circulation driven by temperature and salinity?

Back

Global Conveyor Belt.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What causes warm air to rise?

Back

Warm air rises because it's less dense than cold air.

Front

Define surface currents.

Back

Surface currents are horizontal water movements that occur in the upper layer of the ocean, primarily driven by wind.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as wind and ocean currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What are trade winds?

Back

Trade winds are steady winds that flow from east to west in the tropics, influencing ocean currents.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

Explain the role of salinity in ocean currents.

Back

Salinity affects water density; higher salinity increases density, contributing to deep ocean currents.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, bringing nutrients that support marine life.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-3