Chapter 16 The Dynamic Ocean

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

Upwelling is the rising of cold water from deeper layers of the ocean to replace warmer surface water.

Front

What process leads to the formation of barrier islands?

Back

Barrier islands form as a result of deposition, where sediments accumulate and build up.

Front

What is a wave-cut platform?

Back

A wave-cut platform is NOT a depositional shoreline feature; it is formed by erosion.

Front

What causes ocean surface currents?

Back

Ocean surface currents are caused by friction between the ocean and wind on its surface.

Front

How does the formation of icebergs affect ocean water density?

Back

The formation of icebergs increases the density of ocean water by removing freshwater and leaving salt behind.

Front

Define deposition in the context of oceanography.

Back

Deposition is the process by which sediments are laid down in new locations, contributing to the formation of features like barrier islands.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as ocean currents, due to the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What is a spit in coastal geography?

Back

A spit is a depositional feature that extends from the shore into the water, formed by the accumulation of sand.

Front

Explain the term 'tombolo'.

Back

A tombolo is a deposition feature that connects an island to the mainland or another island.

Front

What role does wind play in ocean currents?

Back

Wind creates friction on the ocean surface, which drives the movement of surface currents.