Current – a flow of water moving through the ocean. Currents flow horizontally, vertically, near the top, or the bottom of the ocean.
Surface currents – are driven by winds blowing over the ocean’s surface. The path of the winds curves because of the Coriolis Effect. (The bending of the earth’s winds and currents because of the earth’s rotation)
Winds blowing toward the poles curve eastward.
Winds blowing toward the equator curve westward.
Gyre - circular pattern of surface currents. In the Northern Hemisphere, they flow clockwise. In the Southern Hemisphere , they blow counterclockwise.
Deep currents – do not generally mix with surface currents. They flow from the poles toward the equator. Density differences keep these currents flowing. The Coriolis effect bends these currents.
Upwelling – the upward movement of deep water near the coasts. Fish are plentiful here.
Shoreline currents – near the shore, travel short distances
