Correct Option
The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
Winds are a primary force driving the movement of ocean surface water. The direction of the wind relative to the coastline determines whether surface water is pushed away from or towards the shore. This movement significantly influences the temperature profile of coastal waters through processes known as upwelling and downwelling.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Winds blowing from the land towards the ocean are known as offshore winds. These winds exert drag on the ocean surface, pushing the warm surface layer away from the coast. This displacement creates a void that must be filled.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: When offshore winds remove warm surface water, it does not result in the sinking of warm water. Instead, it leads to the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water from the deeper layers of the ocean to replace the displaced surface water. Consequently, this process lowers the temperature near the coast.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Winds blowing from the ocean towards the land are known as onshore winds. These winds drive warm surface water towards the coast, causing it to pile up. This accumulation forces the warm water to sink (downwelling) and raises the local sea surface temperature, rather than lowering it.
Key Takeaway
Offshore winds cause upwelling (rising of cold deep water), leading to lower coastal temperatures. Onshore winds cause downwelling (piling up of warm surface water), leading to higher coastal temperatures.