Prelims 2012 · Geography · Question 45
Consider the following factors:<br/>1. Rotation of the Earth<br/>2. Air pressure and wind<br/>3. Density of ocean water<br/>4. Revolution of the Earth<br/><br/>Which of the above factors influence the ocean currents?
Answer
1, 2 and 3
1. Rotation of the Earth — Yes. Earth’s rotation causes the Coriolis effect, which deflects moving water and helps shape major ocean currents.
2. Air pressure and wind — Yes. Planetary winds driven by pressure belts are the main surface force pushing ocean waters.
3. Density of ocean water — Yes. Differences in temperature and salinity create density variations, driving deep ocean circulation (thermohaline currents).
4. Revolution of the Earth — No. Earth’s revolution around the Sun does not directly generate ocean currents; currents are mainly controlled by winds, rotation, density differences, and coastlines.
So, factors 1, 2 and 3 influence ocean currents.