Ocean Currents

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are large-scale movements of seawater that flow through the oceans, driven by factors such as wind, water density differences, and the Earth's rotation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

Where do warm ocean currents generally originate?

Back

Warm ocean currents generally come from the Equator.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What happens to ocean currents when they encounter a continent?

Back

When ocean currents come in contact with a continent, they change direction.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the salt content of a substance, particularly in water.

Front

What causes the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is caused by Earth's rotation.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

As you go deeper in the ocean, does the water get colder and saltier?

Back

False, as you go deeper in the ocean, the water generally gets colder but becomes more saline.

Front

What is the primary driver of surface ocean currents?

Back

The primary driver of surface ocean currents is wind.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet, influencing weather patterns.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold ocean currents?

Back

Warm ocean currents transport warm water from the equator towards the poles, while cold ocean currents carry cold water from the poles towards the equator.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What role do ocean currents play in marine ecosystems?

Back

Ocean currents play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by transporting nutrients, affecting the distribution of marine life.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4