2026 · Q82
Consider the following statements regarding ocean currents :
- 1Difference in water density is the main cause for the formation of ocean currents.
- 2Density of water depends on temperature, salinity and pressure.
- 3As a rule, ocean waters move from areas of higher density to areas of lower density as a current.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
General KnowledgeGeography
- A1, 2 and 3
- B1 only
- C1 and 2 only
- D2 and 3 only
Explanation
Differences in water density, driving the thermohaline circulation, are a major cause of ocean currents (statement 1 true). Seawater density depends on temperature, salinity, and pressure (statement 2 true). But statement 3's blanket rule that waters move from higher to lower density areas is an oversimplification: most surface currents are wind-driven rather than density-driven. Hence statements 1 and 2 are correct. Note: key disputed — independent verification inconclusive. UPSC's published final key marks option A (1, 2, and 3).