The Science Behind Global Currents
WebQuest Answer Key
1. What are wind currents, and how are they formed?
Wind currents are the horizontal movement of air in the Earth’s atmosphere. They are primarily
formed due to the unequal heating of the Earth’s surface by the sun, which creates differences in air
pressure. Air moves from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure, generating wind currents.
2. What is one example of a major global wind pattern? Describe it.
Answers will vary. Examples include the trade winds, the doldrums, prevailing westerlies, and polar
easterlies.
3. How do wind currents affect weather patterns around the world?
Wind currents help distribute heat and moisture across the globe. These changes in precipitation and
temperature influence weather and storm patterns.
4. What are ocean currents, and how are they formed?
An ocean current is a continuous flow of water within the ocean. Its movement is based on a variety
of factors: the winds, the shape of the ocean basins, temperature and density differences in the wa-
ter, and the Earth’s rotation (Coriolis effect).
5. Describe how the Gulf Stream impacts the weather in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Gulf Stream originates from the Caribbean Sea and moves along the east coast of the United
States. The heat from this current moves toward Northern Europe, keeping it warmer than other re-
gions that are at a similar latitude.
6. How are the weather and ocean currents interconnected?
Energy from the sun drives the global ocean currents, helping to keep Earth warm. Heated waters
near the equator move like a conveyor belt to the polar regions due to density differences. Cold, salty
water is more dense than warm, fresh water. Dense water sinks, and water from the surface flows to
replace it. This churning of water and redistribution of warmth takes place around the world.
7. How do ocean currents affect wildlife?
Although an abiotic factor, ocean currents influence nutrient and carbon dioxide levels, which impact
ocean life. Food availability and migration patterns are common examples.
8. What are some differences between wind and ocean currents?
Wind currents are movements of air in the atmosphere, while ocean currents are movements of water
in the ocean. Wind currents are influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the Earth’s
rotation, whereas temperature, salinity, wind patterns, and the shape of ocean basins influence
ocean currents.
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