Chapter 20 Flashcard

Front

What are convection currents in the ocean?

Back

Convection currents in the ocean are movements of water caused by differences in temperature and salinity, characterized by warm water moving from the equator to the poles.

Front

What are turbidity currents?

Back

Turbidity currents are fast-moving currents that flow down the continental slope, often caused by sediment-laden water.

Front

What are rogue waves?

Back

Rogue waves are large and unexpected waves that occur when waves meet opposing currents, often posing a danger to ships.

Front

What is tidal range?

Back

Tidal range is the difference in levels of ocean water at high tide and low tide.

Front

What is a gyre?

Back

A gyre is a circular system of currents in the Earth's major oceans, driven by wind patterns and the Coriolis effect.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Earth's rotation, temperature differences, and salinity variations.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

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

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

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

Front

What are longshore currents?

Back

Longshore currents are currents that move parallel to the shore, generated by waves hitting the beach at an angle.

Front

What are rip currents?

Back

Rip currents are strong, narrow channels of water that flow away from the shore, often forming in areas with breaking waves.