With reference to the characteristics of ocean currents, consider the following statements: 1. The speed of a current is referred to as its "drift". 2. Currents are generally strongest at the bottom of the ocean. 3. Most currents have speeds generally less than 5 knots. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is D. Explanation Ocean currents represent the continuous, predictable, directional movement of seawater driven by gravity, wind (Coriolis effect), and water density. Their characteristics are defined by velocity, depth, and the volume of water transported. - Statement 1 is Incorrect: In oceanography, "drift" refers to the speed of the current, while "set" refers to the direction in which the current flows. The statement incorrectly identifies the speed as the drift, whereas drift is a term used to describe the velocity (speed) of the water movement itself, often measured in knots. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: Ocean currents are generally strongest at the surface and decrease in strength with increasing depth. Surface currents are primarily driven by wind friction, which is most intense at the air-water interface. Deep-ocean currents (thermohaline circulation) move much more slowly than surface currents. - Statement 3 is Correct: The majority of ocean currents move at relatively slow speeds. While exceptional currents like the Gulf Stream can reach speeds of nearly 5 knots (approximately 9 km/h) in certain sections, most major ocean currents maintain speeds significantly below 5 knots. Key Takeaway: Ocean currents are fastest at the surface due to wind friction, and their velocity (drift) typically remains below 5 knots.

With reference to the characteristics of… - NCERT Class 11 Geography MCQ

NCERT Class 11 Geography — Chapter 2: Movements of Ocean Water

mcqmedium

With reference to the characteristics of ocean currents, consider the following statements:

The speed of a current is referred to as its "drift".
Currents are generally strongest at the bottom of the ocean.
Most currents have speeds generally less than 5 knots.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

NCERT textbook question

From NCERT Fundamentals of Physical Geography · Page 4

Options

A1 and 2 only
B1 and 2 only
C1, 2 and 3
D3 only

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is D.

Explanation

Ocean currents represent the continuous, predictable, directional movement of seawater driven by gravity, wind (Coriolis effect), and water density. Their characteristics are defined by velocity, depth, and the volume of water transported.

Statement 1 is Incorrect: In oceanography, "drift" refers to the speed of the current, while "set" refers to the direction in which the current flows. The statement incorrectly identifies the speed as the drift, whereas drift is a term used to describe the velocity (speed) of the water movement itself, often measured in knots.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: Ocean currents are generally strongest at the surface and decrease in strength with increasing depth. Surface currents are primarily driven by wind friction, which is most intense at the air-water interface. Deep-ocean currents (thermohaline circulation) move much more slowly than surface currents.
Statement 3 is Correct: The majority of ocean currents move at relatively slow speeds. While exceptional currents like the Gulf Stream can reach speeds of nearly 5 knots (approximately 9 km/h) in certain sections, most major ocean currents maintain speeds significantly below 5 knots.

Key Takeaway:

Ocean currents are fastest at the surface due to wind friction, and their velocity (drift) typically remains below 5 knots.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Movements of Ocean Water

The interval between Spring tides and Neap tides is normally:

easy

Deep water currents make up what percentage of the ocean water?

easy

In oceanography, the size and shape of a wave are primarily indicative of its:

easy

Which force is responsible for creating the second tidal bulge away from the moon?

easy

How do differences in water density affect the vertical mobility of ocean currents? 1. Water with high salinity is less dense than water with low salinity. 2. Cold water is denser than warm water. 3. Denser water tends to rise while lighter water tends to sink. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

easy

Keep practising Chapter 2: Movements of Ocean Water

Work through every question from this NCERT chapter.

Browse all NCERT Class 11 Geography chapters