The thermohaline circulation transports heat further north than the wind-driven circulation.

Question

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Topic context: The statement compares two large-scale ocean circulation systems and their role in poleward heat transport.
Option discussion (no explicit listing here, but we evaluate the behavior):
- Why the assertion about thermohaline circulation is considered true in many geophysical summaries: The thermohaline circulation involves density-driven flows that connect surface waters in warmer tropical regions with deep waters that travel toward higher latitudes. As these waters sink and fill basins, they carry thermal energy far from where it originated, effectively moving heat toward higher latitudes beyond what surface wind-driven gyres alone achieve. This deep, global conveyor belt complements the wind-driven system and contributes to long-range heat redistribution.
- Why wind-driven circulation alone does not account for all poleward heat transport: Wind-driven gyres primarily act in the upper ocean and along basin boundaries, redistributing heat laterally near the surface. While they move a substantial amount of heat, their vertical extent is limited, and their ability to transport heat to the far northern latitudes is not as extensive as the combination with the deep, density-driven thermohaline flows. In other words, the global conveyor belt enables heat to be carried into regions that are less accessible to surface-driven processes.
- Potential misconceptions to avoid: One might think wind-driven circulation is the sole driver of poleward heat transport because it involves winds and surface currents. However, ignoring the thermohaline component overlooks the important role of deep-water formation, advection, and upwelling that collectively move heat to high latitudes. Conversely, it is not to say thermohaline transport is the only mechanism; rather, it often extends the reach of heat transport beyond the capabilities of wind-driven gyres alone.
- Summary framing: The statement reflects the idea that density-driven, thermohaline flows contribute to moving heat farther north than surface wind-driven processes by linking tropical surface layers to high-latitude deep and intermediate waters, thereby enhancing the latitudinal reach of heat transport beyond surface gyres.

CLMTGR5001_002_2025_3 - Dynamics of Climate Variability and Chan PRACTICE QUIZ: Week 7 Lecture 3

The thermohaline circulation transports heat further north than the wind-driven circulation.

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