Ocean Waves and Currents

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

A warm ocean current that influences weather along the east coast of the U.S. and up toward Europe.

Front

What happens to ocean temperature as depth increases?

Back

Temperature decreases.

Front

What happens to ocean salinity as depth increases?

Back

Salinity increases.

Front

How do deep ocean currents form?

Back

They form as cold, dense water sinks and flows beneath warm ocean water.

Front

What causes deep ocean currents?

Back

Differences in density.

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 controls the direction of surface currents?

Back

Global wind and continental deflections.

Front

What does NOT control the direction of surface currents?

Back

Tides.

Front

What is the main factor that affects ocean currents?

Back

Temperature and salinity differences.

Front

What is the relationship between ocean currents and climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet.