Question

Write a short note on:

Ocean currents in the Indian ocean

Answer 1

1. The system of the ocean currents in the Indian Ocean is highly influenced by the shape of its coastline, its extent, and the peculiar arrangement of the wind system that prevails in the region.
2. It has the equatorial currents but the north equatorial current is weaker than the south equatorial current.
3. North of the equator, the currents are influenced by the seasonally reversing monsoon wind system.
4. The current system in the southern part of the Indian Ocean leads to the development of a large gyre.
5. The two major arms of this gyre are - 
   South equatorial current flowing east to a west direction under the influence of easterlies.
   The 'West Wind Drift' flowing from west to east under the influence of westerlies.
6. The circulation is completed in the west by Mozambique-Agulhas currents and in the east by West Australian current. It is considered to be one of the major gyres on a global scale.
7. In the northern portion of the Indian Ocean, seasonal Monsoonal winds drive the currents. Mostly, these currents follow along the coastlines.
8. During summer, they follow in the clockwise direction, and during winter, their direction shows a complete reversal and they flow in the anticlockwise direction.