Final answer:
Gyres are circular movements in the ocean caused by ocean currents. They differ from currents because they are specific to certain areas and create permanent vortices that collect and concentrate floating materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gyres and Currents in the Ocean
Gyres are regions of the ocean where a combination of ocean currents creates permanent vortices that collect and concentrate floating materials. These vortices are caused by the movement of currents which are large-scale flows of water in the ocean.
How Gyres Differ from Currents?
Gyres are a result of the movement of ocean currents, but they are not the same thing. Ocean currents refer to the general flow of water in the ocean, while gyres refer to the circular or vortex-like movements that occur within certain areas of the ocean.
For example, the Great Pacific Gyres are regions in the Pacific Ocean where ocean currents form large vortex-like structures that trap and accumulate floating materials, such as plastic waste.