Ocean Currents Review

Front

What characteristic produces the most dense water?

Back

High salinity and low temperature produce the most dense water.

Front

What heats the Earth's oceans?

Back

The sun heats the Earth's oceans.

Front

What is a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans called?

Back

A gyre is a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans.

Front

What causes the Coriolis Effect?

Back

Earth's rotation causes the Coriolis Effect.

Front

What happens when surface currents meet continents?

Back

They are deflected (change paths).

Front

Define ocean currents.

Back

Ocean currents are large-scale movements of water within the oceans.

Front

What is the role of salinity in ocean water density?

Back

Higher salinity increases the density of ocean water.

Front

How does temperature affect ocean water density?

Back

Lower temperatures increase the density of ocean water.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface.

Front

What is the difference between surface currents and deep currents?

Back

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