Describe the pattern of ocean currents Flashcards
Where do warm currents move (what do they do?) Give the example too.
Warm currents, such as the North Atlantic Drift, move warm water from the equator to the poles.
What do cold currents do? Give the named example too.
Cold currents such as the Labrador return cool water from the poles.
What are the loops formed by warm and cold currents called?
Warm and cold currents form loops called gyres.
In what direction do Gyres move (in the north Atlantic)
Gyres move clockwise in the north Atlantic.
Why do Gyres move clockwise?
They move clockwise due to the Coriolis effect deflecting them to the right.
What causes surface ocean currents?
Surface ocean currents are caused by friction from winds dragging the ocean surface in the direction of the wind.
What do the friction winds created by the dragging winds do?
This friction transfers energy to the ocean currents.
