oceanic circulation
Oceanic circulation refers to the large-scale movement of water within the world's oceans, driven by factors such as wind, temperature, and salinity differences. This circulation plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate by distributing heat and nutrients across different regions.
There are two main components of oceanic circulation: surface currents and deep-water currents. Surface currents, influenced by wind patterns and the Earth's rotation, move water horizontally across the ocean. In contrast, deep-water currents, also known as thermohaline circulation, are driven by variations in water density, which is affected by temperature and salinity, leading to vertical movement of water.