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Major ocean current systems

Major ocean current systems . Generalized picture of equatorial currents. NEC. SEC. ECC. EUC. ECC and EUC: geostrophic currents; ECC: runs along doldrums w/ little wind opposition. Surface water transport from E to W . wind. W. E. Mixed surface layer.

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Major ocean current systems

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  1. Major ocean current systems

  2. Generalized picture of equatorial currents

  3. NEC SEC ECC EUC ECC and EUC: geostrophic currents; ECC: runs along doldrums w/ little wind opposition

  4. Surface water transport from E to W wind W E Mixed surface layer (EUC: flows below wind driven layer) thermocline

  5. Current velocity (cm/s) of EC

  6. ECC NEC SEC EUC S N

  7. Trade winds

  8. El Niño sets in Decrease in trade winds in central, W Pacific Accompanying decrease in horizontal pressure gradient thermocline sinks from 20 to 100 m, upwelling continues, but upwelled water is warm (29C, not 16-18 C) Change propagates W to E in 2-3 months SST increases, region of ascending moist air over W Pacific expands E

  9. End of El Niño Begins in W Pacific: N, S of Equator, thermocline rises, cooler water to surface--> cooler SST Lower T--> lower atm convection, trade winds switch to normal pattern

  10. Review of global wind and current systems (idealized)

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