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The Atmosphere, The Oceans, and Weather

The Atmosphere, The Oceans, and Weather. Unit 9 – Part C. Oceanic Circulation. Major movement of seawater results from: Wind-driven surface currents. Density-driven deep-water currents. Density is controlled by two things: Temperature Salinity. Oceanic Circulation. Salinity:

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The Atmosphere, The Oceans, and Weather

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  1. The Atmosphere, The Oceans, and Weather Unit 9 – Part C

  2. Oceanic Circulation • Major movement of seawater results from: • Wind-driven surface currents. • Density-driven deep-water currents. • Density is controlled by two things: • Temperature • Salinity

  3. Oceanic Circulation • Salinity: • The amount of dissolved salts in seawater. • Measured as the mass of salts dissolved in 1000 grams of seawater. • Overall balance is maintained when: • Evaporation is offset by precipitation. • Runoff and Ice formation is offset by ice melting.

  4. Oceanic Circulation • Surface Currents: • Frictional forces set surface waters into motion with wind • Gyre: surface waters to spiral in a circular whirl pattern. • Clockwise in Northern Hemisphere and Counter Clockwise in Southern Hemisphere.

  5. Oceanic Circulation • Deep-Water Currents: • Deep water flows because dense water sinks. • Density increases with the increase of salt. • Colder and saltier water is the most dense and sinks.

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