Convection Currents Study Guide

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Convection currents are the movement of fluid (liquid or gas) caused by the uneven heating of that fluid, leading to the rise of warm fluid and the sinking of cooler fluid.

Front

What direction do air currents typically move during the day near the coast?

Back

Air currents typically move from the sea toward the land during the day.

Front

What happens to warm air in a convection current?

Back

Warm air rises in a convection current.

Front

What happens to cool air in a convection current?

Back

Cool air sinks in a convection current.

Front

What are the two main factors that control deep ocean currents?

Back

Salinity and temperature are the two main factors that control deep ocean currents.

Front

What is the process of warm air rising and cool air sinking called?

Back

This process is called convection.

Front

How does the sun affect convection currents on Earth?

Back

The sun heats the Earth's surface unevenly, creating temperature differences that drive convection currents.

Front

What is the role of temperature in convection currents?

Back

Temperature differences cause fluids to move; warmer fluids rise while cooler fluids sink.

Front

What is an example of convection in everyday life?

Back

An example of convection is warm air rising from a heater and circulating around a room.

Front

What is the effect of salinity on ocean currents?

Back

Higher salinity increases water density, which can cause water to sink and drive ocean currents.