Ocean currents

    Master this deck with 10 terms through effective study methods.

    Borh

    Created by @hafsa_naeem

    What do ocean currents help with?

    They distribute solar heat globally and influence climate patterns.

    What are surface ocean currents?

    These currents occur in shallower waters and are primarily driven by wind.

    How do deep ocean currents differ from surface ocean currents?

    Deep currents occur below 500 meters and are driven by temperature and density differences.

    What causes the Coriolis effect?

    Earth's rotation influences the path of ocean currents.

    What role does salinity play in ocean water density?

    Higher salinity increases density, causing water to sink.

    What is thermohaline circulation?

    It is the movement of ocean water driven by density differences due to temperature and salinity.

    What happens to warm water as it moves to higher latitudes?

    It cools down, increasing its density and causing it to sink.

    How do subtropical gyres affect climate?

    They transfer heat from the equator towards the poles, moderating climate.

    What is the primary driver of surface ocean currents?

    Wind is the main force that sets surface currents in motion.

    What is the impact of density differences on ocean circulation?

    They drive the movement of deep ocean currents, affecting global heat distribution.