How does convection cause ocean currents?
A. During the process of convection, energy is transferred to the atmosphere forming winds. These winds power surface currents.
B. During the process of convection, the heating of surface water by the sun results in upwelling.
C. During the process of convection, energy in warm water is lost to its surroundings. The water cools, becomes denser, and sinks.
D. During the process of convection, more minerals and gases dissolve in warm water. This increases the density of the warm water and causes it to sink.


Answer :

Answer:

C. During the process of convection, energy in warm water is lost to its surroundings. The water cools, becomes denser, and sinks.

Explanation:

Convection refers to the process of transference of heat from one place to another by the movement of gas/liquid particles. Convection occurs when a gas or liquid substance is heated, thereby it expands (increase its volume) by gaining kinetic energy and moving far apart. Energy in the atmosphere and oceans is transferred mainly by convection. In the atmosphere, convection produces wind belts. Moreover, an ocean current is the result of the continuous movement of seawater caused by different forces acting upon the water (i.e., wind, the Coriolis effect, waves, temperature). In the oceans, convection produces currents because the seawater heats up becoming less dense and moves above cooler seawater, emitting heat during the process and causing the continual circulation of water.

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