IB Marine Science Topic 3 Review

Front

What initiates the movement of ocean surface currents?

Back

Prevailing winds and Earth's rotation.

Front

What is a large circular current influenced by landmasses and Earth's rotation?

Back

Surface current.

Front

What process involves the direct conversion of water vapor to ice?

Back

Deposition.

Front

What is the primary driver of the global ocean conveyor belt?

Back

Density differences due to temperature and salinity.

Front

What is a key factor influencing continental climates due to ocean currents?

Back

Transfer of heat by ocean currents.

Front

Define ocean currents.

Back

Continuous, directed movement of seawater generated by various forces acting upon it.

Front

What are the two main types of ocean currents?

Back

Surface currents and deep ocean currents.

Front

How do temperature and salinity affect ocean water density?

Back

Colder water and higher salinity increase density, causing water to sink.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The deflection of moving objects caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

Explain the role of upwelling in marine ecosystems.

Back

Upwelling brings nutrient-rich waters to the surface, supporting marine life.