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What explains the eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current?

  • a)
    Convergence of the two equatorial currents 

  • b)
    The Earth’s rotation on its axis

  • c)
    Difference in salinity of water

  • d)
    Occurrence of the belt of calm near equator

Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
What explains the eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current?a)Co...
The easterly Equatorial Counter-Current between about 40 and 100 N may be explained as follows, The overall effect of the Trade Winds is to drive water towards the west, hut the flow is blocked by the land masses along the western boundaries. As a result, in equatorial regions the sea-surface slopes up towards the west, causing an eastward horizontal pressure gradient force. Because winds are light in the Doldrums, water is able to flow down the horizontal pressure gradient in a current that is contrary (i.e. ‘counter’) to the prevailing wind direction. The zone of calm is the necessary and dominant factor here, though other factors play their role as well. 
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Most Upvoted Answer
What explains the eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current?a)Co...
's rotation
c)Coriolis effect
d)Presence of underwater ridges and valleys

c) Coriolis effect. The eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current is a result of the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the Earth's rotation. As the Earth rotates, objects in the northern hemisphere are deflected to the right and objects in the southern hemisphere are deflected to the left. This deflection causes the equatorial currents to flow westward, but the counter-current is a result of a narrow band of water that flows eastward due to the Coriolis effect.
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What explains the eastward flow of the equatorial counter-current?a)Convergence of the two equatorial currentsb)The Earth’s rotation on its axisc)Difference in salinity of waterd)Occurrence of the belt of calm near equatorCorrect answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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