Oceanic and Atmospheric Circulation

Front

What is ocean circulation?

Back

The movement of ocean water driven by various forces, including wind, temperature differences, and salinity.

Front

What is atmospheric circulation?

Back

The large-scale movement of air that distributes heat and moisture around the Earth.

Front

What causes ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Earth's rotation (Coriolis effect), temperature differences, and salinity.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The apparent deflection of moving objects (like wind and water) caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

How do warm and cold water affect ocean currents?

Back

Warm water tends to rise and move towards the poles, while cold water sinks and moves towards the equator.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the measure of how much salt is dissolved in water.

Front

Which water type sinks fastest: warm and salty, cold and salty, warm and fresh, or cold and fresh?

Back

Cold and salty water sinks the fastest due to its higher density.

Front

What role do ocean currents play in climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate the Earth's climate by distributing heat from the equator to the poles.

Front

What is the relationship between density and buoyancy in water?

Back

Less dense objects float, while denser objects sink in water.

Front

How does temperature affect water density?

Back

Colder water is denser than warmer water, causing it to sink.