Circulation pattern in which surface water moves vertically downward.

Circulation pattern in which surface water moves vertically downward.

• A. Eddy
• B. Downwelling
• C. Convergence Zone
• D. Coastal Upwelling

Answer: (B)

Downwelling is the pattern where surface water moves vertically downward into deeper ocean layers. It happens when surface currents converge or winds push water toward a region, causing the water column to pile up and sink. This vertical movement is the opposite of coastal upwelling, where surface water is driven away from the coast and deeper water rises to the surface. An eddy is a circular, largely horizontal swirling motion and doesn’t describe a consistent downward water movement. A convergence zone refers to where different currents meet and can lead to downwelling, but the specific process of the surface water sinking is best described as downwelling.

Downwelling is the pattern where surface water moves vertically downward into deeper ocean layers. It happens when surface currents converge or winds push water toward a region, causing the water column to pile up and sink. This vertical movement is the opposite of coastal upwelling, where surface water is driven away from the coast and deeper water rises to the surface. An eddy is a circular, largely horizontal swirling motion and doesn’t describe a consistent downward water movement. A convergence zone refers to where different currents meet and can lead to downwelling, but the specific process of the surface water sinking is best described as downwelling.