Waves, Tides, Currents

Front

What is a high tide?

Back

A high tide is the bulge of water on the side of the Earth closest to the moon, resulting in higher water levels.

Front

What happens when surface currents meet continents?

Back

They are deflected (change paths) instead of stopping or continuing in the same direction.

Front

What factors affect the density of water?

Back

Both salt and temperature affect the density of water.

Front

What primarily causes most ocean waves?

Back

Most waves are primarily caused by wind.

Front

Which celestial body has the greatest effect on Earth's tides?

Back

The Moon has the greatest effect on Earth's tides.

Front

What is a tide?

Back

A tide is the regular rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and the sun.

Front

What is a current?

Back

A current is a continuous, directed movement of seawater generated by various forces acting upon it.

Front

What is the difference between a spring tide and a neap tide?

Back

A spring tide occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides. A neap tide occurs when the sun and moon are at right angles, resulting in lower high tides and higher low tides.

Front

How does temperature affect water density?

Back

As temperature increases, water density decreases because warmer water expands.

Front

What role does the sun play in tides?

Back

The sun also affects tides, but its effect is less than that of the moon due to its greater distance from Earth.