Oceans, Atmosphere, and Climate Chapters 1 and 2

Front

What is an ocean current?

Back

An ocean current is a continuous, directed movement of seawater generated by various forces acting upon the water, including wind, the Coriolis effect, and differences in water density.

Front

What is El Niño?

Back

El Niño is a climate pattern that describes the unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can disrupt normal weather patterns.

Front

What are the effects of El Niño?

Back

Effects of El Niño include droughts, flooding, and disruptions to agriculture.

Front

How does the equator affect temperature?

Back

Locations closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight, leading to higher energy and air temperatures.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate?

Back

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

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as air and water, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

How do winds affect ocean currents?

Back

Winds drive surface ocean currents, transferring energy and influencing the direction and speed of the currents.

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold ocean currents?

Back

Warm ocean currents originate near the equator and carry warm water towards the poles, while cold currents come from polar regions and carry cooler water towards the equator.

Front

What is the significance of ocean temperature?

Back

Ocean temperature affects marine life, weather patterns, and climate, influencing phenomena like hurricanes and monsoons.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.