What explains the eastward flow of the equatorial counter- current ?
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A.
The Earth's rotation on its axis
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B.
Convergence of the two equatorial currents
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C.
Difference in salinity of water
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D.
Occurrence of the belt of calm near the equator
Correct Answer:
D. Occurrence of the belt of calm near the equator
Explanation:
The correct answer is (d) Occurrence of the belt of calm near the equator.
Explanation:
The equatorial counter-current flows eastward between the westward-flowing North and South Equatorial Currents.
This eastward flow occurs because the trade winds blow strongly from east to west, pushing surface waters westward and causing water to pile up in the western ocean basins.
Near the equator, there is a belt of calm winds known as the Doldrums or the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), where the wind weakens considerably.
The accumulated water in the west flows back eastward through this calm belt to balance the pressure difference, causing the eastward equatorial counter-current.
The belt of calm near the equator allows the eastward flow to overcome the opposing westward trade winds, explaining the eastward movement of the equatorial counter-current.
Thus, the occurrence of the belt of calm near the equator is the key explanation for the eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current, making option (d) correct.
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