Ocean Currents

Front

What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is an example of a surface current in the Atlantic Ocean that influences climate and weather patterns.

Front

What are the two types of ocean currents?

Back

The two types of ocean currents are surface currents and deep currents.

Front

What factors affect the ocean's density and cause the Global Conveyor Belt to travel?

Back

Temperature and salinity affect the ocean's density and cause the Global Conveyor Belt to travel.

Front

What are smaller bodies of salt water called?

Back

Smaller bodies of salt water are called seas.

Front

What mainly causes surface currents in the ocean?

Back

Surface currents are mainly caused by wind.

Front

Define surface current.

Back

A surface current is a horizontal movement of ocean water that is primarily driven by wind.

Front

Define deep current.

Back

A deep current is a movement of ocean water that occurs below the surface, driven by differences in temperature and salinity.

Front

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Back

The Coriolis Effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as ocean currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Front

What is upwelling?

Back

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

Front

What is the Global Conveyor Belt?

Back

The Global Conveyor Belt is a large-scale ocean circulation system that moves warm and cold water around the globe.