Question

knowledge check
1.
this term can be used to describe a large circulating ocean current:
a. el niño
b. estuary
c. gyre
d. inversion
2.
where is much of the debris in the garbage patch generated?
a. harbors
b. marinas
c. rivers
d. all of the above
3.
how many tons of plastic debris are estimated to enter the ocean each year from rivers?
a. 1,000 to 2,000 tons
b. 10,000 to 20,000 tons
c. 100,000 to 200,000 tons
d. 1 to 2 million tons
4.
how long does it take currents to carry debris from the west coast of north america to the gyre?
a. about one year
b. about three years
c. about six years
d. about ten years

Explanation:

1. A gyre is a large, rotating ocean current system.
2. Ocean garbage patch debris comes from harbors, marinas, and rivers as all are sources of human-caused waste that flows to the ocean.
3. Scientific estimates show 1 to 2 million tons of plastic from rivers enter oceans yearly.
4. Ocean currents take about 6 years to carry debris from North America's west coast to the Pacific gyre.

Answer:

1. C. Gyre
2. D. All of the above
3. D. 1 to 2 million tons
4. C. About six years