prevailing winds and ocean currents

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What are prevailing winds?

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Prevailing winds are winds that blow predominantly from a single general direction over a particular point on the Earth's surface.

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What are ocean currents?

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Ocean currents are continuous, directed movements of seawater generated by various forces acting upon the water, including wind, the Coriolis effect, and differences in water density.

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How do ocean currents affect climate?

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Ocean currents help regulate climate by transferring heat from the equator to the poles, influencing weather patterns and temperatures.

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What is the Coriolis effect?

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The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as winds and currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

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What is the relationship between temperature and air density?

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Warm air is less dense than cold air, causing it to rise, which is a key principle in understanding weather patterns.

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How do ocean currents transfer energy?

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Ocean currents transfer energy by moving warm water from the equator towards the poles and cold water from the poles towards the equator.

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What role does the Sun play in ocean currents?

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The Sun heats the Earth's surface, causing temperature differences that drive wind patterns and ocean currents.

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What is the role of wind in ocean currents?

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Winds create surface currents in the ocean by exerting frictional force on the water, initiating movement.

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What are gyres?

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Gyres are large systems of circulating ocean currents, typically driven by global wind patterns and the Coriolis effect.

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What is upwelling?

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Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, bringing nutrients that support marine life.