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Flashcards covering Ekman transport and coastal upwelling.

Ekman Transport

Describes how ocean water moves at an angle to the wind direction due to the Coriolis effect and friction between water layers.

Surface Water Transport Direction (Northern Hemisphere)

Surface water moves 45 degrees to the right of the wind direction.

Surface Water Transport Direction (Southern Hemisphere)

Surface water moves 45 degrees to the left of the wind direction.

Total Water Transport Direction (Northern Hemisphere)

The net water movement is 90 degrees to the wind direction to the right.

Total Water Transport Direction (Southern Hemisphere)

The net water movement is 90 degrees to the wind direction to the left.

Ekman Transport and Coastal Upwelling

When winds blow parallel to the coastline, Ekman transport pushes surface waters away from the coast.

Coastal Upwelling

Colder, nutrient-rich water from the deeper ocean rises to replace surface water.

Importance of Coastal Upwelling

Process that supports rich marine ecosystems and fisheries.