Global Forces Student Study Guide

Equator Earth’s Rotation Continental Deflection Global Forces Transparency

Continental Deflection Since the Earth’s surface is not fully covered by water, currents cannot move freely around the world. When surface ocean currents meet continents, they deflect, or change direction Predict what will happen with each labeled area.

Equator Earth’s Rotation Continental Deflection Coriolis Effect Global Forces Transparency

Coriolis Effect The Earth’s rotation causes surface currents to move in curved paths rather than in a straight line. North Pole Earth’s Rotation

Equator Earth’s Rotation Continental Deflection Coriolis Effect Global Forces Transparency Global Winds

Global winds are affected by their latitude and the Coriolis Effect. In the tropics winds blow from the east to the west. In more temperate areas, the winds blow from the west to the east. Near the poles the winds blow from the east to the west. Tradewinds Westerlies Polar Easterlies

Equator Earth’s Rotation Continental Deflection Coriolis Effect Global Forces Transparency Global Winds Deep Ocean Currents

Deep cold currents move water toward the equator. Cold water sinks to replace warm water rising. Warm water travels near the surface toward polar regions. Warm water replaces cold water.

Equator Earth’s Rotation Continental Deflection Since the Earth’s surface is not fully covered by water, currents cannot move freely around the world. So when surface currents meet continents, they deflect, or change direction. Coriolis Effect The Earth’s rotation causes surface currents to move in curved paths rather than in a straight line. Global Forces Transparency Global Winds Global winds are affected by their latitude and the Coriolis Effect. In the tropics winds blow from the east to the west. In more temperate areas, the winds blow from the west to the east. Near the poles the winds blow from the east to the west. Deep Ocean Currents Deep cold currents move water toward the equator. Cold water rises to replace warm water leaving. Warm water travels near the surface toward polar regions. Warm water replaces cold water.