El Nino/ Currents Flashcard

Front

Movements of ocean water in a continuous flow are called?

Back

Ocean currents are continuous movements of ocean water driven by various factors including wind, temperature, and salinity.

Front

What do we call the constantly moving system of deep-ocean circulation driven by differences in temperature and salinity?

Back

The Global Conveyor Belt is a deep-ocean circulation system that moves water around the globe, influenced by temperature and salinity differences.

Front

When La Nina and hurricanes pull cold water to the surface and bring nutrient-rich sediments from the seafloor, this is called ___________________.

Back

Upwelling is the process where cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, often enhancing marine productivity.

Front

______________ causes more rainfall in the Northwest United States and poor fishing off the coast of South America (Peru).

Back

El Nino is a climate pattern that leads to increased rainfall in certain regions and can disrupt marine ecosystems.

Front

How does the Coriolis Effect influence hurricanes and cyclones?

Back

The Coriolis Effect determines the direction of wind rotation in hurricanes and cyclones, influencing their path.

Front

What is the primary cause of ocean currents?

Back

Ocean currents are primarily caused by wind, the Earth's rotation, and differences in water density.

Front

Define upwelling.

Back

Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, often bringing nutrients that support marine life.

Front

What is the significance of the Global Conveyor Belt?

Back

The Global Conveyor Belt plays a crucial role in regulating climate by distributing heat and nutrients across the oceans.

Front

What are surface currents?

Back

Surface currents are ocean currents that occur in the upper layer of the ocean, primarily driven by wind.

Front

Explain the impact of El Nino on global weather patterns.

Back

El Nino can disrupt normal weather patterns, leading to increased rainfall in some areas and droughts in others.