Ocean Currents & Wind

Front

What is the relationship between warm air and cold air in terms of density?

Back

Warm air is less dense than cold air and rises.

Front

What role does the sun play in ocean currents?

Back

The sun provides the energy necessary to drive convection within Earth's oceans.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

Gases rising and falling in the atmosphere.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What causes surface currents in the ocean?

Back

Winds cause surface currents, and winds are created by the sun.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What happens to cool air in convection?

Back

Cool air sinks.

Front

Define convection in the context of atmospheric and oceanic processes.

Back

Convection is the process by which warmer, less dense air or water rises, while cooler, denser air or water sinks.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

How does the sun influence wind patterns?

Back

The sun heats the Earth's surface unevenly, creating temperature differences that lead to wind patterns.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the significance of ocean currents in climate regulation?

Back

Ocean currents help distribute heat around the planet, influencing climate and weather patterns.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

Explain how wind is generated.

Back

Wind is generated by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun, causing differences in air pressure.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the effect of surface currents on marine life?

Back

Surface currents affect nutrient distribution and temperature, influencing marine ecosystems and habitats.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3