Final answer:
Surface currents in the oceans are driven by major wind patterns, which are influenced by the rotation of the Earth. In the Northern Hemisphere, surface currents rotate clockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they rotate counterclockwise.
Step-by-step explanation:
Surface currents in the oceans are primarily driven by major wind patterns on a global scale. The Coriolis effect, caused by the rotation of the Earth, influences the direction of these currents. In the Northern Hemisphere, wind patterns are deflected to the right, resulting in clockwise rotation of surface currents. In the Southern Hemisphere, wind patterns are deflected to the left, resulting in counterclockwise rotation of surface currents. These wind-driven surface currents are important for transporting heat and nutrients around the globe, influencing climate and marine ecosystems.