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Ocean Circulation Currents and Causes
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What is a Current? Ocean water that moves in ‘streams’ or ‘rivers’ based on similar characteristics Two main types Surface Deep-water
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Surface Currents Caused by winds Trade winds (N/S of Equator)
Westerlies (mid latitudes)
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Surface Currents These currents move horizontally in the upper part of the ocean’s surface. Develops from friction between ocean surface and wind blowing across it.
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Surface Currents Upwelling
When warm water is ‘blown’ away and cold nutrient rich water rises to the surface La Nina conditions - normal El Nino is when the upwelling becomes downwelling
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Surface Currents Gyres
Huge circular moving current systems that dominate the surfaces of the oceans.
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Gyre:
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Surface Currents Coriolis Effect is the deflection away from their original course as a result of Earth’s rotation.
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Deep-Water Currents Density Current Moves vertically
Results from density differences among the water masses
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Deep-Water Currents Density Current
Can be caused by a decrease in temperature or an increase in salinity
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Deep-Water Currents Density Current Cold water from the poles sinks
Can take thousands of years to make a complete cycle around the ocean floor
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Conveyor Belt Model
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Key Currents to Know Gulf Stream Warm Off east coast of US
California Current Cold Off west coast of US
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