Ocean curretns and sea currents Flashcards

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1
Q

what is the thermocline circulation?

A

Sea currents are driven by density differences of water cause by temp and salt differences

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2
Q

Does warm or cold water have a higher density?

A

Cold water which causes it to sink

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3
Q

Does salt or fresh water have a higher density?

A

Salt so it sinks

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4
Q

Explain ocean current pattern:

A

-seawater warms at equator

-flows towards the north pole

-along the way ocean currents emits lots of heat which warms the atmosphere, cooling the water, water also evaporates so salt is left behind

-this causes density of water to increase so water sinks causing ocean circulation (ocean conveyer belt)

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5
Q

What is a gyre?

A

circular ocean current

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6
Q

How are gyres formed?

A

By trade winds

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