9
QuizMultiple Choice

Geologic Maps — Unit test

Question 9 • FHS 2016 TX-Earth and Space Science

The Gulf Stream Current is deflected by North America, causing the current to change direction. What is this concept called?

Answer
A
Continental deflection
B
The Coriolis effect
C
Pycnocline
D
Conveyor belt cycling

Explanation

When an ocean current encounters a continent, the landmass blocks it and redirects its path. This is called continental deflection, so the Gulf Stream’s redirection by North America matches choice A, “Continental deflection.” The Coriolis effect can also influence currents, but it refers to their apparent deflection due to Earth’s rotation, not the obstacle of a continent.

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