Opdycke 6 24/25 RRMS Currents

Front

What factors contribute to the formation of ocean currents?

Back

Heat from the sun, wind, salinity, land mass acting as barriers, and Earth's rotation.

Front

What causes surface currents in the ocean?

Back

Wind.

Front

What are the Horse Latitudes?

Back

Areas of calm in the ocean with little to no wind.

Front

In which direction do currents in the Northern Hemisphere move?

Back

Clockwise.

Front

What are the main factors affecting surface currents?

Back

Global winds, Coriolis effect, and continental deflection.

Front

Define the Coriolis Effect.

Back

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

Front

What is the role of gravity in ocean currents?

Back

Gravity helps to pull water downwards and influences the movement of currents.

Front

What are prevailing westerlies?

Back

Winds that blow from the west to the east in the mid-latitudes.

Front

What is salinity and how does it affect ocean currents?

Back

Salinity is the concentration of salt in water; it affects water density and thus influences currents.

Front

What is the significance of continental deflection?

Back

Continental deflection refers to the change in direction of ocean currents when they encounter landmasses.