Ocean Currents

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Stream-like movements of water in the ocean.

Front

What causes continental deflections?

Back

Currents change direction by hitting continents or other large landmasses.

Front

How does convection contribute to ocean currents?

Back

During convection, warm water loses energy, cools, becomes denser, and sinks.

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

A warm ocean current that influences weather along the east coast of the U.S. and up toward Europe.

Front

What three factors most directly affect surface currents in the oceans?

Back

Surface winds, the Coriolis Effect, and continental deflection.

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The effect of Earth's rotation on the direction of winds and currents.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

The process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, bringing nutrients.

Front

How do surface winds affect ocean currents?

Back

Surface winds drive the movement of water at the ocean's surface.

Front

What role does the sun play in ocean currents?

Back

The sun heats the surface water, affecting temperature and density, which drives currents.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and water density?

Back

Warm water is less dense and tends to rise, while cold water is denser and sinks.