Front

What is solar radiation?

Back

Solar radiation is the energy emitted by the sun, which heats the Earth's surface and drives weather patterns, ocean currents, and climate.

Front

How do surface winds affect ocean currents?

Back

Surface winds, driven by solar radiation, create friction on the ocean surface, leading to the movement of water and the formation of surface currents.

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current in the western North Atlantic Ocean that influences climate and weather patterns in the region.

Front

What is ocean salinity?

Back

Ocean salinity is the concentration of dissolved salts in seawater, typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt).

Front

How does melting polar ice affect ocean salinity?

Back

Melting polar ice decreases ocean salinity because it adds freshwater to the ocean, diluting the salt concentration.

Front

What causes deep ocean currents?

Back

Deep ocean currents are primarily caused by density differences in ocean water, which result from variations in temperature and salinity.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as ocean currents, due to the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What role does solar energy play in ocean temperature?

Back

Solar energy is the primary source of heat for ocean water, influencing temperature and circulation patterns.

Front

What are convection cells in the ocean?

Back

Convection cells are circular patterns of movement in the ocean caused by the heating and cooling of water, leading to the rise and fall of water masses.

Front

What is the relationship between ocean currents and climate?

Back

Ocean currents play a crucial role in regulating climate by distributing heat around the planet and influencing weather patterns.