Final answer:
Surface currents impact humans in transportation, weather patterns, and recreational activities, while they affect animals in migration, food supply, and connectivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Effects of Surface Currents on Humans and Animals
Surface currents, which are driven by wind and differences in water temperature and density, have significant impacts on both humans and animals.
Effects on Humans:
1. Transportation and Navigation: Surface currents have been used by humans for centuries for transportation purposes, aiding in the movement of ships and boats across oceans. They can help expedite travel or hinder it depending on their direction and strength.
2. Weather and Climate: Surface currents play a crucial role in the distribution of heat around the planet, influencing weather patterns and climate conditions. For instance, the Gulf Stream transports warm water from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, contributing to the relatively mild climate in Western Europe.
3. Sport and Recreational Activities: Surface currents create opportunities for various sports and recreational activities such as surfing, kiteboarding, and sailing. These activities rely on the movement and strength of currents for performance and enjoyment.
Effects on Animals:
1. Migration: Many marine animals, including whales, turtles, and birds, rely on surface currents for their annual migrations. These currents can act as highways for these animals, reducing their energy expenditure during long journeys.
2. Food Supply: Surface currents bring nutrients and food particles from deeper waters to the surface, supporting the growth and abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton. This, in turn, sustains the food web and provides a vital food supply for various marine animals.
3. Dispersal and Connectivity: Surface currents enable the dispersal of larvae and juvenile stages of marine organisms, promoting connectivity between different populations. This can enhance genetic diversity and prevent isolated populations from becoming extinct.
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