Waves and Currents

Front

What powers surface currents in the ocean?

Back

Wind

Front

What is the term for how much salt is dissolved in a liquid?

Back

Salinity

Front

In what pattern do surface currents move?

Back

Circular

Front

What type of current is caused by differences in density?

Back

Density Current

Front

What causes the movement of water deep in the ocean?

Back

Differences in densities

Front

What is the main source of energy for ocean currents?

Back

The sun (indirectly through wind) and wind.

Front

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

Back

Surface currents are driven by wind, while deep ocean currents are driven by differences in density.

Front

What is salinity and why is it important in ocean currents?

Back

Salinity is the measure of salt concentration in water, affecting water density and current movement.

Front

What are convection currents in the ocean?

Back

Convection currents are movements of water caused by temperature and density differences.

Front

How do temperature and salinity affect ocean water density?

Back

Colder water and higher salinity increase water density, causing it to sink.