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Multiple Choice
Convection currents, resulting from uneven heating of the Earth's surface, cause _______ to form.
A
global wind patterns
B
ocean salinity gradients
C
tectonic plate boundaries
D
mountain ranges
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of convection currents: Convection currents occur due to the uneven heating of a fluid or gas, causing warmer, less dense material to rise and cooler, denser material to sink. This process creates a continuous circulation pattern.
Relate convection currents to the Earth's surface: On Earth, uneven heating of the surface by the Sun leads to differences in temperature and pressure in the atmosphere, which drives convection currents.
Analyze the options provided: Consider how convection currents influence each option. For example, global wind patterns are directly affected by atmospheric convection currents, while ocean salinity gradients, tectonic plate boundaries, and mountain ranges are influenced by other processes.
Focus on global wind patterns: Convection currents in the atmosphere create areas of high and low pressure, which result in the movement of air masses. This movement forms global wind patterns, such as trade winds, westerlies, and polar easterlies.
Conclude that convection currents are responsible for global wind patterns: Based on the relationship between atmospheric convection currents and air movement, the correct answer is 'global wind patterns.'