Question

1pt what is the primary cause of deep currents in the ocean?

a. the coriolis effect

b. winds

c. density differences in ocean water

d. upwellings

Explanation:

• Option A: The Coriolis effect influences the direction of ocean currents (both surface and deep) but isn't the primary cause of deep currents' formation.
• Option B: Winds mainly drive surface ocean currents, not deep currents.
• Option C: Deep ocean currents (also called thermohaline circulation) are primarily caused by differences in water density, which result from variations in temperature (thermo - ) and salinity ( - haline). Denser water sinks, and less dense water rises, creating the deep - current system.
• Option D: Upwellings are related to the movement of deep, nutrient - rich water to the surface, not the cause of deep currents.

Answer:

C. density differences in ocean water