Ocean Currents & Wind

Front

What is the process called when warm air rises and cool air takes its place?

Back

Convection

Front

What is the primary source of energy for convection on Earth?

Back

The Sun

Front

How do convection currents in a lab model differ from those in Earth's atmosphere and oceans?

Back

The heat source for Earth's atmosphere and oceans is the sun, which heats from above instead of below.

Front

What is the term for the horizontal movement of air along Earth's surface?

Back

Wind

Front

What causes winds that create surface currents in the ocean?

Back

The Sun

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

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

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are horizontal water movements in the ocean caused by wind.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate temperatures and weather patterns by distributing heat around the planet.

Front

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

Back

Deep ocean currents are driven by differences in water density, while surface currents are primarily driven by wind.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides energy for evaporation, which is a key part of the water cycle.