Surface Currents

Front

What does high heat capacity mean?

Back

It requires more energy to change temperature.

Front

How do surface winds affect surface currents?

Back

Surface winds cause surface currents by transferring energy to ocean water.

Front

What would happen to Earth's climate if water had a lower heat capacity?

Back

Global climates would be cooler.

Front

What happens to the temperature of water when it gains Joules of energy?

Back

It warms up.

Front

Why is sand at the beach hotter than water?

Back

Sand has a lower heat capacity than water.

Front

Define surface currents.

Back

Surface currents are horizontal water movements that occur at the ocean's surface, primarily driven by wind.

Front

What factors influence surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are influenced by wind patterns, the Coriolis effect, and the position of continents.

Front

Explain the Coriolis effect.

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as air and water, due to Earth's rotation.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate regulation?

Back

Ocean currents help distribute heat around the planet, influencing climate and weather patterns.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep ocean currents?

Back

Surface currents are driven by wind and occur at the ocean's surface, while deep ocean currents are driven by density differences and occur below the surface.