QUES . What is the relationship between ocean currents and global surface wind systems? Explain with examples how the gyre in the Northern Hemisphere differ from the one in the Southern Hemisphere.
HINTS:
Ocean currents and global surface wind systems are intimately related as the wind drives the ocean currents, and in turn, ocean currents affect the atmosphere by transferring heat and moisture. The direction and intensity of ocean currents are influenced by the direction and strength of prevailing winds.
For example, the trade winds in tropical regions blow from east to west, which drives the surface waters of the ocean to move in the same direction. This creates a pattern of ocean currents called the subtropical gyres. In the Northern Hemisphere, the subtropical gyre is clockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it is counterclockwise due to the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the rotation of the Earth.
Difference between the gyre in the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere
Firstly, the Northern Hemisphere gyre is larger than the Southern Hemisphere gyre. This is due to the presence of more landmass in the Northern Hemisphere, which creates more friction with the wind and slows down the current.
Secondly, the Northern Hemisphere gyre is split into two parts by the North Equatorial Current, while the Southern Hemisphere gyre is not.
Finally, the currents in the Northern Hemisphere gyre are influenced by the Gulf Stream, which is a warm, fast-moving current that flows from the Gulf of Mexico along the eastern coast of the United States and then turns east towards Europe. The Gulf Stream adds heat and moisture to the atmosphere, which can affect weather patterns in Europe.
Thus, ocean currents and global surface wind systems are closely linked, with winds driving the ocean currents and ocean currents affecting the atmosphere. The direction and intensity of ocean currents are influenced by the direction and strength of prevailing winds, resulting in different gyres in the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere.
