Overview
Ocean circulation patterns are vital for understanding how the Earth's climate system works. These patterns, driven by wind, temperature, and salinity, create a complex network of currents that transport heat and nutrients across the globe. Surface currents, such as the Gulf Stream, and deep ocean c...
Key Terms
Example: The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current in the Atlantic.
Example: Thermohaline circulation is driven by differences in water density.
Example: El Niño can lead to increased rainfall in the southern U.S.
Example: La Niña often results in drier conditions in the southern U.S.
Example: Ocean water has a salinity of about 35 parts per thousand.
Example: Colder water is denser than warmer water.