6.5 Ocean Currents

Notes

Surface currents are driven by wind, the Coriolis effect and continents. Deep currents are driven by density differences (temperature and salinity).

• The Coriolis effect deflects moving fluids to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and left in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Large circular patterns called gyres turn clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere.
• The Gulf Stream is a warm current that brings heat to northwestern Europe.
• Upwelling brings cold, nutrient-rich water up, supporting fisheries.
• Currents carry heat from the equator toward the poles.