TED-Ed: How do ocean currents work? - Jennifer Verduin

In 1992, a cargo ship lost 28,000 rubber ducks in the North Pacific, which helped researchers study ocean currents. Ocean currents are driven by wind, tides, water density, and Earth's rotation. They are categorized into surface and deep-ocean currents, which interact to move the ocean. Surface currents are influenced by wind and tides, forming gyres due to the Coriolis effect. Deep-ocean currents are driven by water density changes, forming the global conveyor belt. This circulation affects climate and ecosystems, but rising sea temperatures may slow it down, impacting weather systems.

What event in 1992 led to the distribution of rubber ducks across the globe?

How do surface currents and deep-ocean currents influence each other?

What is the Coriolis effect and how does it affect ocean currents?

Describe the process of thermohaline circulation.

What potential impacts could arise from the slowing of the global conveyor belt?