Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulation Review

Front

What is wind?

Back

Wind is the movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.

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What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of thermal energy by the movement of particles within matter.

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How does ocean salinity affect water density?

Back

An increase in ocean salinity increases the density of water.

Front

What causes upwelling in ocean currents?

Back

Upwelling is caused by winds that blow on the ocean's surface.

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What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the phenomenon that causes moving air and water to turn and twist rather than to move in a straight line, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

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What are surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are horizontal movements of water caused by wind and differences in water density.

Front

What is the role of the Earth's rotation in atmospheric circulation?

Back

The Earth's rotation affects wind patterns and ocean currents through the Coriolis Effect.

Front

What is the difference between conduction and convection?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact, while convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids.

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What are the westerlies?

Back

The westerlies are prevailing winds that blow from the west to the east in the mid-latitudes.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

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