Ocean Currents

Front

What causes the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is caused by Earth rotating on its axis.

Front

What are the two types of ocean currents?

Back

The two types of ocean currents are surface and deep.

Front

What is a trough in ocean waves?

Back

A trough is the lowest point between two wave crests.

Front

What does upwelling refer to in oceanography?

Back

Upwelling refers to the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface.

Front

True or False: As you go deeper in the ocean, the water is colder and less salty.

Back

False. As you go deeper, the water is generally colder but can be saltier due to pressure.

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

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

Front

Define ocean currents.

Back

Ocean currents are large-scale movements of water within the world's oceans, driven by factors such as wind, water density differences, and the Coriolis Effect.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep currents?

Back

Surface currents are driven by wind and affect the upper layer of the ocean, while deep currents are driven by density differences due to temperature and salinity.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate global climate by distributing heat from the equator to the poles.

Front

What is the significance of the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that influences the climate of the eastern United States and Western Europe.