Ocean Currents Quiz

What are ocean currents?

• A small stream of water flowing in no specific direction.

• A large volume of water flowing in a certain direction.

• The rise and fall of ocean water levels.

• A weather pattern affecting the ocean's surface temperature.

How are surface currents formed in bodies of water?

• The moon's gravitational pull on the water

• Wind transfers energy to water and forms waves and currents by friction

• Changes in water temperature and salinity

• Tectonic activity beneath the ocean floor

How does water move to form surface currents?

• Vertically

• In a circular motion

• Horizontally

• Randomly

What drives the formation of surface currents?

• Tidal forces

• Temperature differences

• Wind

• Earth's rotation

What is a gyre?

• A. A type of sea creature

• B. A circular system of currents

• C. A method of measuring ocean depth

• D. A coastal landform

In which direction do gyres circle in the Northern Hemisphere?

• Counterclockwise

• Clockwise

• In a straight line

• Randomly

In which direction do gyres circle in the Southern Hemisphere?

• Clockwise

• Counterclockwise

• In a straight line

• Randomly

What is the term used to describe the large-scale patterns of water circulation in the ocean as shown in the diagram?

• Current

• Gyre

• Stream

• Wave

Which ocean current is labeled in the diagram near North America and Europe?

• Equatorial Current

• Gulf Stream

• South Stream

• North Atlantic Drift

According to the diagram, where is the equator located?

• Between North America and South America

• Between Eurasia and Africa

• Between Australia and Antarctica

• It runs through all of the above locations