Ocean Currents

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the measure of the amount of salt dissolved in water, which affects the density of ocean water.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by differences in water density, which can result from variations in temperature and salinity.

Front

What happens to water with higher density than its surroundings?

Back

Water with higher density than the surrounding water will sink.

Front

Define ocean.

Back

An ocean is a large body of saltwater that covers most of Earth's surface.

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are directional movements of ocean water, influenced by wind, temperature, and salinity differences.

Front

How do surface currents form?

Back

Surface currents form from steady winds blowing over the ocean surface.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and ocean water density?

Back

Colder water is denser than warmer water, affecting how ocean currents move.

Front

What role does gravity play in ocean currents?

Back

Gravity helps to pull denser water down, contributing to the movement of ocean currents.

Front

What is the effect of salinity on ocean water?

Back

Higher salinity increases the density of ocean water, which can influence currents.

Front

What is a deep current?

Back

A deep current is a movement of ocean water that occurs below the surface, driven by differences in water density.