Summary
A global ocean conveyor driven by differences in temperature and salinity that distributes heat.
In depth
Cold salty water sinks in the North Atlantic and Antarctic, flowing along the deep ocean and rising elsewhere over about 1,000 years. Freshwater input from melting ice may weaken it (AMOC).
Density-driven flow couples surface and deep ocean. Its weakening could change climate in Europe. Proxy records show past shutdowns.
Common mistake: the Gulf Stream is wind-driven; the AMOC is the density-driven component.
Frequently asked questions
What is Thermohaline Circulation?
A global ocean conveyor driven by differences in temperature and salinity that distributes heat.
Which area of biology covers Thermohaline Circulation, and how advanced is it?
Thermohaline Circulation is one of the 54 topics in Marine & Environmental Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Global Warming, Upwelling, Greenhouse Effect.
Can you give an example of Thermohaline Circulation?
The Gulf Stream keeps northwest Europe milder.
What should I learn before Thermohaline Circulation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Marine & Environmental Biology first, such as Oceans, Ocean Zones, Plankton, then return to Thermohaline Circulation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Thermohaline Circulation?
The closest topics to Thermohaline Circulation are Global Warming, Upwelling, Greenhouse Effect, Biological Pump. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Thermohaline Circulation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Thermohaline Circulation. To practise the whole of Marine & Environmental Biology, use the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz.
How is Thermohaline Circulation different from Global Warming?
Thermohaline Circulation: A global ocean conveyor driven by differences in temperature and salinity that distributes heat. Global Warming: The long-term rise in global average temperature caused mainly by human emission of greenhouse gases. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
What is a common mistake about Thermohaline Circulation?
The Gulf Stream is wind-driven; the AMOC is the density-driven component.
How should I study Thermohaline Circulation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Global Warming and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.