Ocean Currents

Front

What affects the density of water?

Back

Both salt and temperature affect the density of water.

Front

What are a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans?

Back

A gyre is a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans.

Front

What does the Gulf Stream contribute to the climate of the British Isles?

Back

The Gulf Stream contributes to a mild climate for the British Isles.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the salt content of a substance.

Front

What heats the Earth's oceans?

Back

The sun heats the Earth's oceans.

Front

What is an ocean current?

Back

An ocean current is a continuous, directed movement of seawater generated by various forces acting upon it.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, bringing nutrients with it.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate?

Back

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

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

Thermohaline circulation is the global conveyor belt of ocean currents driven by temperature and salinity differences.