Natural Science CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How does the location of continents affect ocean currents?

1. It has no effect

2. It creates warm currents

3. It creates cold currents

4. It creates counterclockwise currents

The correct answer is: It creates warm currents

The location of continents can greatly influence ocean currents due to their large land masses. These land masses can act as barriers, redirecting ocean currents and causing changes in their temperature. In the case of warm currents, continents can block cold water from reaching certain regions, resulting in a warmer current. For instance, the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean is influenced by the location of the North American continent, which helps to create a warm current. On the other hand, continents can also lead to the formation of cold currents by blocking warm water and causing it to sink and flow along the ocean floor. As for options A and D, they are incorrect because the location of continents does have an effect on ocean currents, and they can flow in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions depending on various factors.