Question

Which of the following are true of the transfer of thermal energy in the oceans? Select the three correct answers.(2 points)
Responses

Energy is carried from the equator to poles in surface currents.
Energy is carried from the equator to poles in surface currents.

Energy is carried from the equator to poles in deep ocean currents.
Energy is carried from the equator to poles in deep ocean currents.

Energy is radiated more than absorbed near the poles.
Energy is radiated more than absorbed near the poles.

Energy is absorbed more than radiated near the equator.
Energy is absorbed more than radiated near the equator.

Energy is absorbed more than radiated near the poles.
Energy is absorbed more than radiated near the poles.

Energy is radiated more than absorbed near the equator.
Energy is radiated more than absorbed near the equator.

Answer 1

Correct answers (three):

- Energy is carried from the equator to poles in surface currents.
- Energy is radiated more than absorbed near the poles.
- Energy is absorbed more than radiated near the equator.

Brief explanation: The tropics receive more incoming solar radiation than they lose, and the poles lose more than they gain, so heat must be transported poleward. Wind-driven surface currents (e.g., the Gulf Stream) carry warm water and heat from low to high latitudes. Deep currents generally carry colder, denser water away from the poles, so they are not the primary poleward heat transporter.