Ocean Currents

Front

What is an ocean current?

Back

A large volume of water flowing in a certain direction in the ocean.

Front

Which water sample is the most dense?

Back

Seawater is the most dense due to its salt content.

Front

What causes surface currents in the ocean?

Back

Surface currents are primarily caused by wind.

Front

What direction do westerly winds blow?

Back

Westerly winds blow from West to East.

Front

What is the role of wind in ocean currents?

Back

Wind pushes water across the ocean's surface, creating currents.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and density currents?

Back

Surface currents are driven by wind, while density currents are caused by differences in water density.

Front

What is the effect of temperature on ocean water density?

Back

Colder water is denser than warmer water, affecting currents.

Front

How does salinity affect ocean water density?

Back

Higher salinity increases water density, making it heavier.

Front

What is a rip current?

Back

A strong, narrow current that flows away from the shore.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects caused by the rotation of the Earth.