Questions and Answers
What is the stream-like movement of fresh water called?
Ocean current
What do ocean currents affect?
Weather and climate
What are the two types of ocean currents?
Surface currents and deep/density currents
What are ocean currents that occur at or near the surface of the ocean called?
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How far can some currents travel?
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What is an example of a surface current?
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How are surface currents created and controlled?
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Do the four factors that create a surface current create a pattern?
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What happens when surface currents meet continents?
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What is the effect of Earth's rotation on surface currents?
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Which way do ocean currents turn in the Northern Hemisphere?
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Which way do ocean currents turn in the Southern Hemisphere?
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What is the major source of energy that powers surface currents?
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What do the unequal heating of the Earth's surface create?
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Where does warm (less dense) air move from the equator to?
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What warms the air creating winds that create surface currents?
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What type of surface currents do global winds and the rotating earth create?
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What do surface currents affect on the continent?
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Where do warm currents form?
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Where do warm currents distribute heat from?
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What is an example of a warm current?
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Where do cold currents form?
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Where do cold currents carry water to the equator from?
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What is an example of a cold current?
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Study Notes
Ocean Currents Overview
- Ocean currents are stream-like movements of fresh and saltwater.
- These currents have significant impacts on weather and climate patterns.
Types of Ocean Currents
- There are two main types: surface currents and deep/density currents.
- Surface currents occur at or near the ocean's surface and can travel across entire oceans.
Examples of Surface Currents
- The Gulf Stream is a prominent example of a surface current, showcasing the movement of warm water.
Factors Influencing Surface Currents
- Surface currents are created and controlled by:
- Continental Deflection: Currents change direction upon meeting continents.
- Global Winds: Winds drive surface currents across vast distances.
- Coriolis Effect: Earth’s rotation causes currents to move in curved paths, influencing direction.
- Temperature of air: The source of currents can depend on the air temperature where they form.
Patterns of Surface Currents
- The four factors listed above contribute to a discernible pattern in surface currents.
- Currents in the Northern Hemisphere turn clockwise, while those in the Southern Hemisphere turn counterclockwise.
Energy Sources and Wind Formation
- The primary energy source for powering surface currents is the sun.
- Unequal heating of Earth’s surface leads to temperature imbalances, generating winds.
Warm Air Movement and Currents
- Warm, less dense air moves from the equator towards colder areas, which contain denser air.
- The sun’s thermal energy heats the air, driving winds that create surface currents.
Temperature and Climate Impact
- Surface currents carry warm and cold water, affecting the climate on continents.
- Warm currents typically form in warm areas and distribute heat from the equator.
- Cold currents originate in cold areas, transporting water from polar regions back towards the equator.
Examples of Warm and Cold Currents
- An example of a warm current is the Gulf Stream, known for its heat distribution.
- The California Current serves as an example of a cold current, moving cold water towards warmer equatorial regions.
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Test your knowledge about ocean currents with these flashcards. Explore key concepts such as the types, effects on weather and climate, and movements of ocean water. Ideal for students studying marine science or related fields.
