FLASHCARD: Ocean Currents & Wind

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids and gases) caused by differences in temperature and density.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Earth's rotation, and differences in water temperature and salinity.

Front

What is the role of the sun in convection currents?

Back

The sun heats the Earth's surface, causing warm air and water to rise, which creates convection currents.

Front

What is the difference between conduction, convection, and radiation?

Back

Conduction is heat transfer through direct contact, convection is heat transfer through fluid movement, and radiation is heat transfer through electromagnetic waves.

Front

Why does cold air sink?

Back

Cold air is more dense than warm air, causing it to sink.

Front

What is uneven heating of the Earth?

Back

Uneven heating of the Earth refers to the variation in temperature across the planet due to factors like the angle of sunlight, land and water distribution, and atmospheric conditions.

Front

What is a convection cell?

Back

A convection cell is a circular pattern of fluid movement where warm fluid rises, cools, and then sinks.

Front

How does the Earth's tilt affect climate?

Back

The tilt of the Earth affects the angle of sunlight received at different latitudes, leading to seasonal changes in climate.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects (like wind and ocean currents) caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold ocean currents?

Back

Warm ocean currents transport warm water from the equator towards the poles, while cold currents carry cold water from the poles towards the equator.