Question Q.16Describe, discussGS1GS1
Describe the various factors that influence ocean currents and discuss their multi-dimensional impact. (15 marks, 250 words)
Introduction
Ocean Currents are large masses of water that traverse the world's oceans. Eg: Humbold current in Atlantic Ocean.
18 words
Main Body
Factors that influence Ocean Currents
(I) Primary factors:
1Insolation of Sun: Warms up water more at equator vis-a-vis poles. This creates a 8cm gradient which forms current.
2Wind: friction pushes water in direction of wind
3Corolis force: Determines the direction of water flow (continues on next page)
4Gravity: Aids in gradient formation as gravity pulls water down
(II) Secondary factors:
-> Temperature and Salinity - mechanism: low temp + High salinity <-> High T + Low salinity
Multi-dimensional impact of Ocean Currents
(I) Environmental:
1Formation of deserts due to desiccating effect Eg: Patagonia desert
2Essential for reproduction cycles of whales & fishes
(II) Economic Impacts:
1Ships utilise it for navigation (continues on next page)
2Warm ocean currents keep ports in Northern latitudes open in winter Eg: Gulf stream -> Amsterdam Port
3Creation of fishing zones Eg: Newfoundland bank
(III) Social Impact
1Makes life possible by keeping temperatures bearable Eg: Cold Current (Peru Current) keeps temperature low in Latin Am.
2Provides employment opportunities as tourists come
176 words9 paragraphs
Conclusion
With intensifying climate change ocean currents are being impacted negatively.
10 words
Diagram
Diagram showing water gradient at equator vs poles with 8cm difference marking
- Clear diagram
- Good structuring of factors
Topper
BHAVESH JALPAN
AIR 1282024
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Geography
Physical Geography
Ocean Currents
Writing Stats
204
Total words
9
Paragraphs
Analytical, point-wise
Tone