Ocean Currents

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are large-scale movements of water within the world's oceans, driven by factors such as wind, temperature, salinity differences, and the Earth's rotation.

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows up the eastern coast of the United States and across the Atlantic Ocean towards Europe.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet. Warm currents can raise temperatures in coastal areas, while cold currents can lower them.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the measure of the amount of salt dissolved in water, typically expressed in parts per thousand (ppt).

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the apparent deflection of moving air and water due to the rotation of the Earth, causing currents to curve rather than move in a straight line.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold ocean currents?

Back

Warm ocean currents originate near the equator and carry warm water towards the poles, while cold currents originate near the poles and carry cold water towards the equator.

Front

What role does the Equator play in ocean currents?

Back

The Equator is the starting point for many warm ocean currents, as it receives direct sunlight, leading to higher water temperatures.

Front

What is the impact of ocean currents on marine life?

Back

Ocean currents influence the distribution of nutrients and temperature in the ocean, affecting where marine life can thrive.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often supporting high productivity in marine ecosystems.