What Is the Role of the Oceans in the Formation of Weather Systems?

A deep ocean current forms when ocean water becomes denser and sinks. The following figure shows a deep ocean current. Based on the illustration, which of the following statements describes the relationship between density and temperature?

• Cold water is denser than warm water.

• Warm water is denser than cold water.

• The density of water is not affected by temperature.

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Global weather patterns are fueled by convection currents in which two places?

• the poles and the sun

• oceans and continents

• atmosphere and oceans

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Which three factors most directly affect surface currents in the oceans?

• upwelling, convection, and the sun’s energy

• deep currents, convection currents, and surface winds

• surface winds, the Coriolis effect, and continental deflection

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How does convection cause ocean currents?

• During the process of convection, energy is transferred to the atmosphere, forming winds. These winds power surface currents.

• During the process of convection, the heating of surface water by the sun results in upwelling.

• During the process of convection, water that was warmed by the sun loses heat. The water cools, becomes denser, and sinks.

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Which of the following can cause an increase in density that results in a deep ocean current?

• The sun heats the water’s surface.

• A warm wind blows across cold water.

• Warm water loses energy to its surroundings and cools.

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What is the one condition necessary for a hurricane to form?

• Warm ocean water

• A strong cold front

• Cold ocean water

Hurricanes and similar storm systems begin over oceans. The map below shows average surface temperatures of the oceans in the summer.

Based on the map, which area probably produced the most violent storm systems?

• Area 1

• Area 2

• Area 3

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In 2011, Typhoon Nesat struck the Philippines and caused widespread flooding. After hitting the Philippines, Typhoon Nesat was predicted to hit the large city of Hanoi, Vietnam.

If Typhoon Nesat had continued along the same path, which development would most likely have reduced its strength before it hit Hanoi?

• The formation of a low-pressure area south of Bangkok

• The formation of a high-pressure area south of Bangkok

• Cool water moving into the sea east of Hanoi

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Many weather systems form over oceans. The energy needed to form these weather systems originates from the

• sun

• prevailing winds

• water currents

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Which best describes how the ocean may influence weather systems?

• Cooling and heating of the ocean affects air above the water, causing air movement.

• Salty ocean water is picked up by the air above the ocean, making the air denser and changing the air pressure.

• Ocean water constantly moves, dragging the air above it along as it moves.

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