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← GeographyWhich mechanism amplifies trade winds across the tropical Pacific Ocean due to the Coriolis effect?
A)Ekman transport deflecting surface currents✓
B)Thermocline deepening inhibiting upwelling
C)Coastal upwelling initiating ocean currents
D)Geostrophic balance creating pressure gradients
💡 Explanation
When trade winds blow westward, the Coriolis effect deflects surface currents poleward (Ekman transport) because Earth’s rotation induces an apparent force. This divergence causes upwelling, strengthening easterly trade winds and initiating a positive feedback loop. Therefore, Ekman transport best describes the amplified effect, rather thermocline deepening, coastal upwelling, or geostrophic balance.
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