Ocean Currents

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the apparent deflection of moving objects (like ocean currents) caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis.

Front

What causes ocean currents to rise from the deep ocean to the surface?

Back

Convection Currents are the process that brings deep cold ocean currents up to the surface.

Front

What happens to ocean currents when they meet continents?

Back

Ocean currents are deflected (change paths) when they meet continents.

Front

What occurs when a current comes in contact with a landmass?

Back

The current changes direction when it comes in contact with a continent or landmass.

Front

What is upwelling in the context of ocean currents?

Back

Upwelling is the movement of deep, cold, nutrient-filled water to the surface of the ocean.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

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

Front

What are deep ocean currents?

Back

Deep ocean currents are currents that flow beneath the surface of the ocean, driven by differences in temperature and salinity.

Front

How do temperature and salinity affect ocean currents?

Back

Temperature and salinity create density differences in water, which drive the movement of ocean currents.

Front

What role do global wind patterns play in ocean currents?

Back

Global wind patterns influence the direction and speed of surface ocean currents.

Front

What is the relationship between ocean currents and climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet.