90.7k views
2 votes
How does the North Atlantic Ocean contribute to the thermohaline circulation?

A) By creating deep ocean currents
B) By supplying warm water to the circulation
C) By causing the Gulf Stream
D) By reducing ocean salinity

User M D
by
7.2k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The North Atlantic Ocean contributes to the thermohaline circulation by creating deep ocean currents, supplying warm water, and reducing ocean salinity. The correct options are A, B and D.

Step-by-step explanation:

The North Atlantic Ocean contributes to the thermohaline circulation primarily by creating deep ocean currents. These currents, such as the North Atlantic Deep Water and the Labrador Current, form part of the global conveyor belt that transports warm and cold water around the world's oceans.

The North Atlantic Ocean also contributes to the thermohaline circulation by supplying warm water to the circulation. The Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico, carries warm water northward along the eastern coast of the United States and then turns eastward towards Europe, helping to moderate the climate in Western Europe.

Furthermore, the North Atlantic Ocean contributes to the thermohaline circulation by reducing ocean salinity. As water evaporates from the ocean's surface, it leaves behind salt, increasing the salinity of the remaining water. When this dense, salty water sinks deep into the ocean, it drives the downward movement of ocean currents.

Hence, Options A, B and D are correct.

User Mayumi
by
8.2k points