Ocean Currents

Question 1

What causes ocean currents and how do they from?

Answer 1

The sinking of cold water at the poles must be balanced by upwelling that brings deeper water back to the surface. The prevailing winds push currents while denser water sinks and warmer water rises.

Question 2

Why do coastal areas have smaller temperature ranges than inland locations?

Answer 2

Ocean currents influence the climate of coastal locations. The temperature of ocean water does not change as quickly as the temperature of rock and soil. Cold and warm currents also affect coastal temperatures.

Question 3

Generally, areas close to large bodies of water will have _______________ summers and _______________ winters than their corresponding inland locations at the same elevation and latitude. This is due to the water’s ________________ specific heat.

Answer 3

Generally, areas close to large bodies of water will have “dry, warm” summers and “wet, cool” winters than their corresponding inland locations at the same elevation and latitude. This is due to the water’s “thermal” specific heat.