Ocean Currents Flashcards
What are ocean currents?
Ocean currents are large-scale movements of seawater driven by factors such as wind, water density differences, and the Earth’s rotation.
True or False: Ocean currents only occur at the surface of the ocean.
False
Which force primarily drives surface ocean currents?
Wind
Fill in the blank: The _____ effect causes ocean currents to curve due to the Earth’s rotation.
Coriolis
What is the name of the current that moves warm water from the tropics towards the North Atlantic?
Gulf Stream
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a factor influencing ocean currents? A) Wind B) Temperature C) Moon Phases D) Salinity
C) Moon Phases
What is the primary role of deep ocean currents?
To transport cold water from the poles to the equator and vice versa.
True or False: Ocean currents can affect climate and weather patterns.
True
What is thermohaline circulation?
A global system of deep-ocean currents driven by temperature and salinity differences.
Fill in the blank: The _____ current is known for its cold water and flows along the western coasts of South America.
Peru
What impact do ocean currents have on marine life?
They help distribute nutrients and affect breeding and feeding grounds.
Multiple Choice: Which ocean current is known for being the largest and most powerful? A) Kuroshio Current B) Antarctic Circumpolar Current C) California Current D) North Atlantic Current
B) Antarctic Circumpolar Current
What is the significance of the El Niño phenomenon related to ocean currents?
It disrupts normal ocean currents and can lead to significant weather changes globally.
True or False: Ocean currents can influence coastal erosion.
True
What are upwelling and downwelling in the context of ocean currents?
Upwelling is the process where deep, cold water rises to the surface, while downwelling is when surface water sinks.
