Ocean Circulation (Ocean Gyres, Gulf Stream)

Front

What is a gyre?

Back

A gyre is a large, circular surface-current pattern found in each ocean.

Front

How do gyres in the southern hemisphere turn due to the Coriolis Effect?

Back

Gyres in the southern hemisphere turn counterclockwise.

Front

What are the prevailing westerlies?

Back

The prevailing westerlies are winds that blow from west to east and influence the weather in the United States.

Front

What is the primary source of energy that creates winds?

Back

The primary source of energy that creates winds is the sun.

Front

Who is Curtis Ebbesmeyer?

Back

Curtis Ebbesmeyer is a scientist known for studying ocean currents using a Rubber Ducky spill.

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet.

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as winds and currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are ocean currents that occur in the upper layer of the ocean, primarily driven by wind.

Front

What is the difference between a gyre and a current?

Back

A gyre is a large circular pattern of currents, while a current is a continuous, directed movement of seawater.