The Dynamic World of Ocean Energy and Matter

Lesson Objective:
I will be able to identify the factors that affect the
pattern of surface currents.

1.

Surface currents

1. Surface currents are ocean currents moving
close to the surface of the ocean.

1. Wind move surface currents by

transferring Kinetic Energy to the
water.

2. Surface currents move in the same
direction as global winds.

1. Ocean currents change direction

when it reaches land of a continent.

2. This change of direction is called
continental deflection.

1. The direction of wind and water

that travels over long distances
are affected by the rotation of the
Earth.
2. This is called the Coriolis Effect

THE CORIOLIS

EFFECT

1. Water currents are moving through
oceans and seas in circular patterns called
gyres.
2. Gyres flow from high density cold areas
to low density warm areas
3. In each hemisphere there are many gyres
4. Heat is being distributed by gyres
across the Earth.

Can you explain the difference in direction between
Gyres in the Northern Hemisphere
and Gyres in the Southern Hemisphere?