- Neap tides are tides of lower than normal tidal range that occur at first and last quarter
moons, when the Moon is at right angles to the Sun. - Ocean surface currents are produced by major overall patterns of atmospheric circula-
tion, the Coriolis Effect and the shape of each ocean basin. - Each half of each ocean basin has a major circular pattern of surface water circulation
called a gyre. - Ocean surface circulation brings warm equatorial waters towards the poles and cooler
polar water towards the equator. - Deep ocean circulation is density driven circulation produced by differences in salinity
and temperature of water masses. - Upwelling areas are biologically important areas that form as ocean surface waters are
blown away from a shore, causing cold, nutrient rich waters to rise to the surface.
Review Questions
- What factors of wind determine the size of a wave?
- Define thecrestandtroughof a wave.
- Why does a hurricane create big waves?
- Tsunami are sometimes incorrectly called “tidal waves.” Explain why this is not an
accurate term for tsunami. - What is the principle cause of the tides?
- What is a tidal range?
- Why do you think that some places have a greater tidal range than other places?
- Which has a greater tidal range, spring tides or neap tides? Explain.
- What is the most significant cause of the surface currents in the ocean?
- How do ocean surface currents affect climate?
- What is the Coriolis Effect?
- Some scientists have hypothesized that if enough ice in Greenland melts, the Gulf
Stream might be shut down. Without the Gulf Stream to bring warm water northward,
Europe would become much colder. Explain why melting ice in Greenland might affect
the Gulf Stream. - What process can make denser water rise to the top?
- Why are upwelling areas important to marine life?
Further Reading / Supplemental Links
- Learn About Ocean Currents, 5 min Life Videopediahttp://www.5min.com/Video/
Learn-about-Ocean-Currents-117529352