Ocean waters circulate, horizontally and vertically. These circular movements are known as currents. Ocean currents are driven by wind, water density differences, and tides. The flow of wind above the surface of the ocean is the main cause of these currents. The two main types of wind flow are the Westerlies–west to east and the Trade Winds–east to west. Warm air moves from the tropical areas to the Polar Regions. Ocean currents also depend on gravity and water density. Saltier and colder water is denser and makes the water sink. So, water from the Poles sinks and moves towards the equator, while warm water moves from the equator area towards the Poles, causing these currents.
What Causes Ocean Currents?
