Ocean Currents

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What is El Niño?

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El Niño is a climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can disrupt normal weather patterns.

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How do El Niño conditions affect trade winds?

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El Niño weakens or reverses the trade winds, causing the warm pool of water to move eastward.

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What is upwelling?

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Upwelling is the process where deep, cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often supporting rich marine ecosystems.

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What is downwelling?

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Downwelling is the process where surface water sinks, often occurring in areas where water converges.

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What is thermohaline circulation?

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Thermohaline circulation is a global ocean circulation driven by differences in water density, which is controlled by temperature (thermo) and salinity (haline).

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What are phytoplankton?

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Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms in the ocean that perform photosynthesis, forming the base of the marine food web.

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What are zooplankton?

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Zooplankton are small, often microscopic animals that drift in ocean currents and feed on phytoplankton.

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What is the significance of the Pacific Ocean in relation to El Niño?

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El Niño occurs when tropical ocean waters are warmer in the Pacific Ocean, significantly impacting global weather patterns.

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What happens to cool air or water in convection?

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In convection, cool air or water sinks, while warm air or water rises.

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What is a rip current?

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A rip current is a strong, narrow current that flows away from the shore, often posing a danger to swimmers.