USCG Exam PracticeTides and currents — predictions and corrections
What is the principal difference between tidal currents and surface ocean currents?
- A. Tidal currents are driven by wind; surface ocean currents are driven by the tide
- B. Both are driven by wind, but tidal currents are confined to coastal waters
- ✓ Tidal currents are driven by the tide and reverse with it; surface ocean currents are driven primarily by windCorrect
- D. Surface ocean currents reverse direction with the tide; tidal currents flow continuously in one direction
Why C is correct
Bowditch Ch. 24 §2401 states that surface ocean currents are driven primarily by wind, while tidal currents are driven by the tide and reverse direction with it.
Cited:Bowditch Ch. 24 §2401