What causes surface currents in the ocean?

Surface currents in the ocean are primarily driven by wind and temperature variations. When wind blows across the surface of the ocean, it exerts frictional force on the water, causing it to move in the direction of the wind. This movement, combined with the Coriolis effect caused by Earth's rotation, influences the flow patterns, resulting in established surface currents. Additionally, temperature variations can create density differences in the water, contributing to the movement of water masses. Warm water is generally less dense and tends to move differently compared to cooler, denser water.

Wind is often the immediate driving force behind these currents, while temperature variations can set the stage for longer-term movement and circulation patterns within the ocean. Understanding this relationship highlights how interconnected atmospheric conditions and oceanic movements are in shaping the global climate and ecosystem dynamics.