Ocean Motion

Breaking waves, swirling eddies, swift currents, and overturning circulation. The ocean is in constant motion in dynamic and powerful ways. Since early navigators took to the seas we have sought to understand how and why the ocean moves. Ocean-observing satellites, globally deployed in-water sensor platforms, and state-of-the-art ocean circulation models have allowed researchers to begin to understand the complexities of ocean motion.

Ocean Motion

Breaking waves, swirling eddies, swift currents, and overturning circulation. The ocean is in constant motion in dynamic and powerful ways. Since early navigators took to the seas we have sought to understand how and why the ocean moves. Ocean-observing satellites, globally deployed in-water sensor platforms, and state-of-the-art ocean circulation models have allowed researchers to begin to understand the complexities of ocean motion.

Ocean motion occurs at all depths and over a wide range of times and scales. At the surface, fast wind-driven ocean waves can last a few seconds to hours and reach lengths of tens of meters. Diving deeper into the ocean, currents slow down but can persist for thousands of years and span thousands of kilometers. This deep circulation is driven by differences between temperature and salinity. One example is the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a notable player in our climate system that moves heat north-to-south (and back again!) in the Atlantic Ocean.

Between these extremes are swirling mesoscale eddies. Lasting weeks to months, they are usually around 100 km (62 miles) wide and can transport nutrients that sustain ocean life over long distances.

Ocean motion occurs at all depths and over a wide range of times and scales. At the surface, fast wind-driven ocean waves can last a few seconds to hours and reach lengths of tens of meters. Diving deeper into the ocean, currents slow down but can persist for thousands of years and span thousands of kilometers. This deep circulation is driven by differences between temperature and salinity. One example is the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a notable player in our climate system that moves heat north-to-south (and back again!) in the Atlantic Ocean.

Between these extremes are swirling mesoscale eddies. Lasting weeks to months, they are usually around 100 km (62 miles) wide and can transport nutrients that sustain ocean life over long distances.

Where are the Ocean's Strongest Currents?

Watch a visualization from NASA's ocean model, ECCO, as the particle trails highlight the strongest currents in the world. (Source: NASA SVS)

How does the Ocean Move Heat Around the Globe?

Explore how ocean currents are key to transporting heat from the equator north and south toward the poles (Source: NASA SVS)

Where are the Ocean's Strongest Currents?

Watch a visualization from NASA's ocean model, ECCO, as the particle trails highlight the strongest currents in the world. (Source: NASA SVS)

How does the Ocean Move Heat Around the Globe?

Explore how ocean currents are key to transporting heat from the equator north and south toward the poles (Source: NASA SVS)

Ready to Explore Ocean Motion?

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