Ocean Currents and Climate

Front

What causes deep ocean currents?

Back

Temperature and salinity differences in ocean water.

Front

Why does a hurricane lose strength when it hits land?

Back

It no longer gains energy from warm ocean water.

Front

What is a primary cause of hurricanes?

Back

Warmer ocean temperatures.

Front

How do ocean currents affect global climates?

Back

They redistribute heat around the planet, influencing weather patterns.

Front

What form of energy do ocean currents move?

Back

Heat.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Ocean currents that occur at the surface of the ocean, primarily driven by wind.

Front

What are deep ocean currents?

Back

Currents that flow deep below the surface, driven by differences in temperature and salinity.

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

A warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

Front

How do ocean currents influence coastal climates?

Back

They can make coastal areas warmer or cooler than they would be otherwise.

Front

What is the role of salinity in ocean currents?

Back

Salinity affects water density, which drives deep ocean currents.