Consider the following factors: 1. Rotation of the Earth 2. Air pressure and wind 3. Density of ocean water 4. Revolution of the Earth Which of the above factors influence the ocean currents?

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Q: 70 (IAS/2012)
Consider the following factors:
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Air pressure and wind
3. Density of ocean water
4. Revolution of the Earth
Which of the above factors influence the ocean currents?

question_subject: 

Geography

question_exam: 

IAS

stats: 

0,183,78,25,183,10,43

keywords: 

{'ocean currents': [1, 1, 3, 5], 'ocean water': [1, 0, 3, 5], 'above factors': [0, 0, 0, 1], 'factors': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'earth': [0, 1, 1, 1], 'rotation': [1, 0, 0, 2], 'wind': [1, 0, 1, 2], 'density': [2, 0, 1, 3], 'air pressure': [0, 0, 0, 1]}

Ocean currents are affected by a range of factors, and options 1, 2 and 3 cover them accurately. The rotation of the Earth (mentioned in option 1) influences ocean currents due to the Coriolis effect, which leads to the rotation of the currents themselves. Air pressure and wind (option 2) shape the ocean`s surface and drive its currents. The density of ocean water (option 3), determined by temperature and salinity, also greatly influences ocean currents. Dense water sinks and is replaced by less dense water, creating a current. The revolution of the Earth (option 4), however, does not significantly influence ocean currents. It is mainly concerned with the Earth`s position relative to the sun and the resulting changes in climate and seasons. Therefore, the correct answer is option 2; ocean currents are influenced by the Earth`s rotation, air pressure and wind, and the density of ocean water.