Ocean currents: Ocean water is constantly moving

Ocean water is constantly moving, and not only in the form of waves and tides. Ocean currents flow like vast rivers, sweeping along predictable paths. Some ocean currents flow at the surface; others flow deep within water. Some currents flow for short distances; others cross entire ocean basins and even circle the globe. By moving heat from the equator toward the poles, ocean currents play an important role in controlling the climate. Ocean currents are also critically important to sea life ... Learn about the continuous, directed movement of seawater that influences climate and ecology around the world. Find out how wind, tides, density, and other factors drive surface and deep currents , and how they are measured and mapped. Learn about ocean currents , the continuous, predictable, directional movement of seawater caused by various forces. Explore the factors, types and examples of ocean currents and their impact on climate and ecosystems. The major ocean currents roughly follow a common set of circular paths. While wind drives surface ocean currents from the Coriolis effect, temperature and salt gradients mostly influence deep ocean currents .