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Preferred term

oceanic circulation  

Definition

  • Oceanic circulation is responsible for the majority of heat transfer within the Earth system and, hence, determines weather and climate for the majority of humankind (Figure 1). Circulation within the ocean is patterned by numerous forces but mostly reflects spatial differences in density and heat that are in turn minimized by a complex system of currents within the major ocean basins. [Source: Encyclopedia of Geography; Oceanic Circulation]

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https://concepts.sagepub.com/social-science/concept/oceanic_circulation

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