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.

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?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

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

Consider the following factors: 1. The shape of bays and estuaries has no influence on the magnitude of tides. 2. Presence of wide continental shelves. 3. Presence of mid-oceanic islands. Which of the above factors can influence the height or magnitude of tidal bulges?

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Which of the following best describes the general movement of warm ocean currents?

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With reference to the movements of ocean water, consider the following statements: 1. Ocean currents represent the horizontal motion of water while tides represent the vertical motion. 2. In waves, the water moves ahead from one place to another along with the wave train. 3. The upwelling of cold water from the subsurface is a form of horizontal motion. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the characteristics of ocean waves: 1. The largest waves are typically found in open oceans rather than enclosed seas. 2. Steep waves are generally old and originate from far away places. 3. Slow and steady waves usually originate from far away places. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The maximum height of a wave is determined by which of the following factors? 1. The strength of the wind has no role in determining wave height. 2. The duration for which the wind blows. 3. The area over which the wind blows in a single direction. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

easy

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The correct option is D.

Explanation

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.