In which direction do gyres flow in the Northern Hemisphere?

Prepare for the Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Oceanography Test with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Gyres in the Northern Hemisphere flow in a clockwise direction due to the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the rotation of the Earth. As air and water move across the surface of the Earth, they are deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere. This results in ocean currents circulating in a clockwise pattern within gyres.

These gyres are large systems of rotating ocean currents, usually driven by wind, and play a significant role in regulating climate, transporting heat, and influencing marine ecosystems. The clockwise motion of gyres is a fundamental characteristic of ocean dynamics in the Northern Hemisphere, distinguishing them from gyres in the Southern Hemisphere, where the flow is counterclockwise. Understanding this pattern is crucial for comprehending broader oceanographic processes and their effects on global circulation and climate.

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