What two primary factors jointly drive the Earth's large-scale ocean currents?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Wind & Density
Explanation:
Large-scale ocean currents are mainly driven by two key factors: wind patterns and density differences in seawater. Winds push surface waters across the ocean, while variations in temperature and salinity create density differences that drive deep ocean circulation (thermohaline circulation).
Key Points:
Wind drives surface ocean currents
Density differences drive deep ocean circulation
Temperature and salinity affect water density
Both factors work together in global circulation systems
Additional Facts:
Ocean currents regulate Earth’s climate
Warm currents transfer heat from equator to poles
Cold currents move water back toward the equator
The “global conveyor belt” is driven by thermohaline circulation
Important Questions:
Q1: What drives surface ocean currents?
Answer: Wind
Q2: What causes density differences in oceans?
Answer: Temperature and salinity
Q3: What is thermohaline circulation?
Answer: Deep ocean circulation driven by density differences