Unit 7 Lesson 3: Ocean Currents

Front

How does convection cause ocean currents?

Back

During the process of convection, energy in warm water is lost to its surroundings. The water cools, becomes denser, and sinks.

Front

What can cause an increase in density that results in a deep ocean current?

Back

Warm water loses energy to its surroundings and cools.

Front

Which movement of ocean water has the greatest direct effect on the growth of producers? Options: Upwelling, Deep currents, Surface currents, Convection currents.

Back

Upwelling

Front

Which three factors most directly affect surface currents in the oceans?

Back

Surface winds, the Coriolis effect, and continental deflection

Front

What causes wind?

Back

The sun's uneven heating of Earth's surface.

Front

What makes up Earth's atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen, oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide, and water vapor.

Front

What affect do ocean currents have on the atmosphere?

Back

The ocean can release energy into the atmosphere or absorb energy from the atmosphere; currents transport energy around the globe.

Front

How do ocean currents and up welling benefit marine life?

Back

Up welling stirs up food and nutrients; currents help sea creatures travel.

Front

What are ocean currents?

Back

Streamline movements through the ocean

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Ocean currents near the surface of the ocean, caused by wind.