Ocean Currents Overview

Which of the following best describes the fundamental nature of ocean currents?

Which of these factors is considered the MOST influential in directly initiating and maintaining surface ocean currents?

To what approximate depth from the ocean surface do surface currents predominantly extend?

What is a significant consequence of ocean currents regarding global environmental conditions?

Besides wind, which of the following is another factor that directly influences the direction and behavior of surface ocean currents?

How does gravity influence ocean currents according to differences in density?

What primarily determines the direction of ocean gyres?

What is the role of the continents in the formation of ocean gyres?

What causes the differences in density that drive deep water currents?

What is the main effect of the thermohaline circulation on the ocean?

Ocean Currents

Ocean currents are the movement of water in the ocean.
They are large-scale movements that affect the planet.
Driven by factors including Earth's rotation, wind, gravity, temperature, and salinity.
Affect climate, temperature, and wind patterns.
Carry heat.

Types of Ocean Currents

Surface currents: Occur in the upper layer of the ocean (0-400m).
Deep water currents: Occur in the deeper ocean.
Driven by different factors.

Surface Currents

Primarily driven by wind, gravity, and the Coriolis Effect.
Wind: The main driver. Friction between wind and water pushes water, creating currents.
- Wind direction is a major factor.
Gravity: Affects water movement and density-based differences.
- Denser water (colder, higher salt) sinks.
- Less dense water rises.
Coriolis Effect: Earth's rotation causes currents to curve.
- Gyres are circular current patterns caused by continents, wind, and the Coriolis Effect.
- Northern hemisphere gyres rotate clockwise.
- Southern hemisphere gyres rotate counterclockwise.
Continental deflection: Landmasses cause currents to change direction.

Deep Water Currents

Driven by differences in water density.
Density: Temperature and salinity differences cause water density variations.
- Colder, saltier water is denser, sinking.
- Warmer, less salty water rises.
Thermohaline circulation: Movement driven by temperature (thermo) and salinity (haline) differences.
- Also known as the Global Conveyor Belt.
- Transports heat and nutrients.
Surface water cools, becomes denser, and sinks.

This quiz explores the movement of ocean currents, their types, and driving factors. Understand the influences of wind, gravity, and the Coriolis Effect on surface and deep water currents. Test your knowledge of how these currents affect our planet's climate and ecosystem.