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Questions and Answers
Which ocean region is characterized by high productivity due to its nutrient-rich waters?
Which ocean region is characterized by high productivity due to its nutrient-rich waters?
- Tropical oceans
- Polar oceans (correct)
- Equatorial regions
- Midlatitude oceans
How does the Coriolis effect impact surface water movement in the Northern Hemisphere?
How does the Coriolis effect impact surface water movement in the Northern Hemisphere?
- It causes water to flow straight northward.
- It leads to counterclockwise water rotation around low pressure systems. (correct)
- It has no significant effect on ocean currents.
- It deflects moving water to the right of its path. (correct)
What is the unique feature of the West Wind Drift?
What is the unique feature of the West Wind Drift?
- It circulates around the Antarctic continent. (correct)
- It moves primarily in a north-south direction.
- It is the longest ocean current in the world.
- It flows eastward across the equator.
What is one of the primary effects of warm ocean currents on coastal climate?
What is one of the primary effects of warm ocean currents on coastal climate?
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What is the significance of upwelling in ocean systems?
What is the significance of upwelling in ocean systems?
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Study Notes
Productivity in Oceans
- Polar Oceans: Productivity is limited by sunlight, with a short growing season.
- Tropical Oceans: Productivity is low because of persistent thermocline, limiting nutrient supply to the surface.
- Mid Latitude Oceans: Productivity is high due to seasonal upwelling and mixing, bringing nutrients to the surface.
Major Ocean Gyres
- North Pacific Gyre
- South Pacific Gyre
- North Atlantic Gyre
- South Atlantic Gyre
- Indian Ocean Gyre
- Antarctic Circumpolar Current
Coriolis Effect
- The Earth's rotation causes objects to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and left in the Southern Hemisphere.
- This effect influences surface water movement, creating clockwise circulation in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise circulation in the Southern Hemisphere.
West Wind Drift
- It's a powerful current circling Antarctica.
- It is the largest and strongest current on Earth, unimpeded by landmasses and driven by westerly winds.
Warm and Cold Currents
- Warm Currents: Originate from tropical regions and carry warm water towards the poles, moderating coastal climates.
- Cold Currents: Originate from polar regions and carry cold water towards the equator, contributing to upwelling zones.
Upwelling
- Origin: Wind-driven movement of surface water away from the coast, drawing up nutrient-rich water from the depths.
- Importance: It significantly increases primary productivity and supports rich ecosystems.
- Locations: Coastal zones, particularly along the west coasts of continents.
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