Question
Download Solution PDFWhich of the following is/are cold ocean current/currents?
1.Alaska Current
2.North Atlantic Drift
3.West Wind Drift
Select the answer using the code given below:
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe correct answer is 3 only.
Key Points
- West Wind Drift is a cold ocean current that flows in the Southern Hemisphere and is also known as the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.
- The current is driven by the strong westerly winds, moving from west to east around Antarctica.
- It plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate by facilitating the exchange of heat and nutrients between the world's oceans.
- Alaska Current and North Atlantic Drift are warm currents, not cold currents, and flow in the Northern Hemisphere.
Additional Information
- Ocean Currents:
- Ocean currents are continuous, directed movements of seawater generated by forces such as wind, the Coriolis effect, and temperature/salinity differences.
- They are categorized into warm and cold currents depending on their temperature relative to the surrounding water.
- Warm Currents: These currents, such as the North Atlantic Drift and Alaska Current, originate near the equator and transport warm water to higher latitudes.
- Cold Currents: These currents, like the West Wind Drift and Labrador Current, transport cold water from polar areas to lower latitudes.
- Antarctic Circumpolar Current: This is the largest ocean current in the world, connecting the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans and playing a key role in the global conveyor belt of ocean circulation.
- Impact of Ocean Currents: They influence global climate patterns, marine biodiversity, and even human activities such as fishing and shipping.
Last updated on Jul 8, 2025
->UPSC NDA Application Correction Window is open from 7th July to 9th July 2025.
->UPSC had extended the UPSC NDA 2 Registration Date till 20th June 2025.
-> A total of 406 vacancies have been announced for NDA 2 Exam 2025.
->The NDA exam date 2025 has been announced. The written examination will be held on 14th September 2025.
-> The selection process for the NDA exam includes a Written Exam and SSB Interview.
-> Candidates who get successful selection under UPSC NDA will get a salary range between Rs. 15,600 to Rs. 39,100.
-> Candidates must go through the NDA previous year question paper. Attempting the NDA mock test is also essential.