Ocean Currents, Tides, and Upwelling

Front

What is Upwelling?

Back

The movement of deep, cold, nutrient-filled water to the surface of the ocean, which supports marine life.

Front

What factors affect the density of ocean water?

Back

Density is affected by temperature and salinity (salt concentration).

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The deflection of moving objects (like ocean currents) caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis.

Front

What causes tides in the ocean?

Back

Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on the Earth's oceans.

Front

Why is upwelling important for marine ecosystems?

Back

Upwelling brings nutrient-rich water to the surface, supporting the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the base of the marine food web.

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Large-scale movements of water within the oceans, driven by wind, the Earth's rotation, and differences in water density.

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 and occur below the surface.

Front

How does temperature affect water density?

Back

Colder water is denser than warmer water, causing it to sink.

Front

What role does salinity play in ocean water density?

Back

Higher salinity increases water density, causing it to sink.

Front

What is the significance of the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that influences climate and weather patterns in the North Atlantic region.