Ocean Currents and Climate Dynamics

Mr. Mazzaro introduces ocean currents, explaining their role in regulating ocean temperatures by circulating warm and cold water. He discusses the Coriolis effect, which influences the direction of currents in different hemispheres. The lesson also covers upwelling and downwelling, processes driven by temperature and salinity differences, which are crucial for oxygen and nutrient distribution in the ocean. The concept of the great ocean conveyor is introduced, illustrating the long-term circulation of water molecules. The lesson concludes with a preview of the next topic: waves.

What causes the swirling of ocean currents in different directions in the northern and southern hemispheres?

• The gravitational pull of the moon

• The position of the sun

• The Coriolis effect

• The Earth's magnetic field

Why are ocean currents crucial for marine life across the globe?

• They create waves for surfing

• They regulate ocean temperatures

• They prevent tsunamis

• They increase ocean salinity

What is the primary factor that causes upwelling and downwelling in the ocean?

• Tidal forces

• Wind speed

• Sunlight exposure

• Water density differences

How does upwelling benefit marine ecosystems?

• By reducing water salinity

• By creating larger waves

• By bringing nutrients to the surface

• By increasing water temperature

In the Chinese buffet analogy, what does the crowded buffet represent?

• The bottom of the ocean

• The ocean floor

• The surface of the ocean

• The middle of the ocean

What role does downwelling play in the ocean?

• It brings oxygen to the ocean depths

• It creates ocean waves

• It increases ocean salinity

• It reduces ocean currents

What is the Great Ocean Conveyor?

• A tool for predicting weather patterns

• A method of measuring ocean depth

• A type of ocean wave

• A system of ocean currents and upwelling

How long does it take for a water molecule to circulate through the entire ocean via the Great Ocean Conveyor?

• 1,000 years

• 10,000 years

• 100 years

• 4,000 years

What is the significance of the Great Ocean Conveyor for global climate?

• It prevents tsunamis

• It increases ocean salinity

• It regulates global temperatures

• It creates ocean waves

What is the main cause of ocean currents?

• Volcanic activity

• Earthquakes

• Tides

• Wind