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How do ocean currents work? - Jennifer Verduin

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25 Questions Answered

Exploring our Oceans

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In 1992, a cargo ship carrying bath toys got caught in a storm. Shipping containers washed overboard, and the waves swept 28,000 rubber ducks and other toys into the North Pacific. But they didn’t stick together -- the ducks have since washed up all over the world. How did this happen? Jennifer Verduin dives into the science of ocean currents.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has put together an expansive list of resources on tides, currents and water levels.

NASA also provides a number of lesson plans for folks wishing to teach about ocean currents in the classroom.

Additionally, Smithsonian has a great video and other resources on ocean currents. 

Finally, Here is a resource from Yale Environment 360 on how climate change is affecting ocean currents.

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Watch the video and finish the Think section to complete the lesson.

About Exploring our Oceans

Exploring our Oceans offers insight into the scientific marvels of the marine world, and the part you can play in uncovering the ocean's mysteries and safeguarding its future. From biology to physics to engineering, understanding our oceans involves a multitude of scientific approaches. Dive into our curated videos and supporting lesson materials, and find out how you can be a part of it all.

Meet The Creators

  • Video created by TED-Ed
  • Lesson Plan created by Luka Seamus Wright

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