Consider the following statements: 1. Ocean currents are the slow-surface movement of water in the ocean. 2. Ocean currents assist in maintaining the Earths heat balance. 3. Ocean currents are set in motion primarily by prevailing winds. 4. Ocean currents

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Q: 82 (IAS/2002)
Consider the following statements:
1. Ocean currents are the slow-surface movement of water in the ocean.
2. Ocean currents assist in maintaining the Earth’s heat balance.
3. Ocean currents are set in motion primarily by prevailing winds.
4. Ocean currents are affected by the configuration of the ocean.
Which of these statements are correct?

question_subject: 

Geography

question_exam: 

IAS

stats: 

0,83,125,18,83,13,94

keywords: 

{'ocean currents': [1, 1, 3, 5], 'ocean': [1, 0, 0, 0], 'winds': [1, 0, 0, 1], 'surface movement': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'motion': [0, 0, 0, 3], 'configuration': [0, 0, 1, 0]}

The correct answer is:

2, 3 and 4

Explanation:

1. Statement 1 is incorrect. Ocean currents can occur both at the surface and at deeper depths, depending on various factors such as temperature, salinity, and density.

2. Statement 2 is correct. Ocean currents play a significant role in redistributing heat around the Earth, helping to regulate the planet`s climate and maintaining its heat balance.

3. Statement 3 is correct. Prevailing winds, such as the trade winds and westerlies, are one of the primary driving forces behind the movement of ocean currents. These winds generate friction on the surface of the ocean, which sets the water in motion.

4. Statement 4 is correct. The configuration of the ocean, including factors like land masses, coastlines, and the shape of basins, influences the direction, speed, and path of ocean currents. These factors can cause currents to be deflected or create specific circulation patterns.

Therefore, the correct statements are 2, 3, and 4.