โ™ป๏ธap environmental science review

Oceanic Circulation

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025

Definition

Oceanic circulation refers to the movement of ocean waters on a global scale. It is driven by factors such as temperature, salinity, density, and wind patterns, which create currents that distribute heat around the planet.

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