Ocean Currents and Biological Productivity

The video tutorial explores how wind influences ocean circulation, focusing on Ekman layers and the Coriolis force. It demonstrates cyclonic and anticyclonic flows using a rotating tank experiment, highlighting upwelling and downwelling phenomena. The tutorial explains Ekman transport and its impact on ocean currents, climate, and marine ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of upwelling in enhancing biological productivity and supporting fishing grounds.

What is the primary force that causes the ocean currents to deviate from the wind direction?

• Gravitational force

• Coriolis force

• Magnetic force

• Electromagnetic force

In the cyclonic flow experiment, what is used to track the bottom flow?

• Metallic particles

• Paper dots

• Plastic beads

• Potassium permanganate crystals

During cyclonic flow, what happens to the surface flow?

• It moves in a circular pattern

• It remains stationary

• It diverges from the center

• It converges to the center

What is the term used to describe the upward movement of water at the center during cyclonic flow?

• Crosswelling

• Sidewelling

• Upwelling

• Downwelling

In the anticyclonic flow experiment, what is observed at the center of the tank?

• No movement

• Circular flow

• Downwelling

• Upwelling

What is the net effect of Ekman transport on the direction of ocean currents?

• 45 degrees counterclockwise from wind direction

• 90 degrees clockwise from wind direction

• Opposite to wind direction

• Parallel to wind direction

How does upwelling affect biological productivity in the ocean?

• Has no effect

• Decreases productivity

• Boosts productivity

• Reduces nutrient availability

What is a common characteristic of areas with frequent upwelling?

• High temperatures

• Low salinity

• Rich fishing grounds

• Poor fishing grounds

What is the primary cause of the Ekman transport phenomenon?

• Gravitational pull

• Coriolis effect

• Magnetic fields

• Ocean tides

What is the impact of downwelling on ocean currents?

• Decreases water salinity

• Brings nutrient-rich water to the surface

• Pushes surface water downward

• Increases surface temperature