Ocean circulation Flashcards
What are ocean currents?
Large, continuous movements of water that flow in a specific direction. Directed by continents and density changes.
How do ocean currents regulate global temperatures?
Ocean is heat sink - stored in surface layers.
The heat is redistributed - warm water from tropics towards poles and vice versa.
How do ocean currents regulate the global atmosphere?
Impact the position and strength of high and low-pressure systems - influencing the formation of hurricanes and monsoon seasons.
What is an example of a warm ocean current?
What pressure system does this form?
Why?
The Gulf Stream, North Atlantic,
Low pressure
Heats the air above them. This forms low pressure systems (air rises) so cooler air rushes in to fill gap - therefore, storms are formed.
What is an example of a cold ocean current?
What pressure system does this form?
Why?
The Labrador Current, North Atlantic
High pressure
Cools the air above them. This forms high pressure systems (air sinks) so stable weather climate systems.
