Unit 7 Key Terms

Front

What is an ocean current?

Back

An ocean current is a movement of ocean water that follows a regular pattern.

Front

What is a deep current?

Back

A deep current is a streamlike movement of ocean water that occurs far below the surface.

Front

How far do local winds typically guide you?

Back

Local winds typically guide you over short distances.

Front

What does temperature measure?

Back

Temperature is a measure of how hot or cold something is.

Front

How does energy travel through space?

Back

Energy travels through space as electromagnetic waves.

Front

What is the main factor that drives ocean currents?

Back

The main factor that drives ocean currents is wind.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are ocean currents that occur at the surface of the ocean, influenced by wind.

Front

What is the role of the sun in ocean currents?

Back

The sun heats the ocean surface, creating temperature differences that drive currents.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, like ocean currents, due to the Earth's rotation.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the measure of the amount of salt in water.