Marine Biology #9: Wind, Waves & Tides

A series of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms and concepts related to oceanic and atmospheric dynamics as discussed in the lecture.

Radiant Energy

Energy emitted from the sun that reaches the Earth and drives atmospheric and oceanic processes.

Latitude

The measurement of distance north or south of the equator, affecting the amount of solar energy received.

Atmospheric Absorption

The process by which the atmosphere absorbs radiant energy, which increases with higher latitudes.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere.

Global Warming

The increase in Earth's average temperature due to heightened levels of greenhouse gases.

Elevation of Air

The rise of warmer air which decreases in density as it gains heat.

Coriolis Effect

A phenomenon causing moving air and water to turn and twist due to the rotation of the Earth.

Convection Cells

Large-scale circulation patterns in the atmosphere that result from rising warm air and sinking cool air.

Trade Winds

Winds that blow from the east in the tropics, resulting from the Coriolis effect.

Doldrums

Regions near the equator where low pressure and calm winds create periods of little air movement.

Horse Latitudes

Areas of sinking air at 30 degrees north and south latitudes where winds are often calm.

Ocean Currents

Continuous, directed movements of sea water generated by wind, the Coriolis effect, and thermal gradients.

Gyres

Large circular ocean currents that flow around the periphery of ocean basins.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of energy required to raise the temperature of a substance; water has a high capacity.