[Campbell Biology P.1217] Which of the following statements about the North Atlantic Subtropi... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements about the North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre, as depicted in Figure 52.5, is correct?

  • A: It primarily consists of cold currents flowing clockwise.
  • B: It includes the warm Gulf Stream flowing towards the northeast.
  • C: The Labrador Current is a major warm current forming part of this gyre.
  • D: All currents within this gyre carry cold water from the poles.

Explanation

Figure 52.5 illustrates the global circulation of surface water. The North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre clearly shows the Gulf Stream red arrow, indicating warm water flowing towards the northeast as part of its clockwise circulation pattern. The text also states that the Gulf Stream carries warm water from the equator to the North Atlantic, leading to a mild climate in northwestern Europe.