Ocean Currents

Front

What is the definition of ocean currents?

Back

Movements of ocean water in a continuous flow, driven by various forces such as wind, temperature, and salinity differences.

Front

What are the two main types of ocean currents?

Back

Surface currents and deep currents.

Front

What causes deep ocean currents?

Back

Differences in temperature and salinity in ocean water.

Front

What is wavelength in the context of ocean waves?

Back

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The phenomenon that causes moving objects, including ocean currents, to curve due to Earth's rotation.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

They help regulate temperatures by distributing heat around the planet.

Front

What is the role of wind in surface ocean currents?

Back

Wind drives surface currents by exerting frictional force on the water's surface.

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold ocean currents?

Back

Warm currents transport warm water from the equator towards the poles, while cold currents carry cold water from the poles towards the equator.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

The process where deep, cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often supporting marine life.

Front

What is thermohaline circulation?

Back

A global ocean circulation pattern driven by differences in temperature and salinity.