Why is London, at roughly the same latitude as Seoul, warmer in winter? The answer lies in ocean currents [1].
Ocean Current Basics
Surface currents are driven by wind; deep currents are driven by differences in temperature and salinity. The entire system is called thermohaline circulation, or the ocean conveyor belt [1].
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The Gulf Stream carries warm water into the North Atlantic, moderating Europe’s climate. Korea is influenced by the Kuroshio Current.
Ocean Currents and Climate Change
A weakening of the AMOC (Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation) has been observed [2]. If it weakens further, European climate could change dramatically. Rahmstorf et al. (2015) report that the AMOC is at its weakest state in the past millennium.
Classroom Experiment
I use a tank with hot water (red food coloring) and cold water (blue food coloring) to visualize ocean currents. Seeing it directly accelerates students’ understanding [3].
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
Your Next Steps
- Today: Pick one idea from this article and try it before bed tonight.
- This week: Track your results for 5 days — even a simple notes app works.
- Next 30 days: Review what worked, drop what didn’t, and build your personal system.
Last updated: 2026-03-16
About the Author
Written by the Rational Growth editorial team. Our health and psychology content is informed by peer-reviewed research, clinical guidelines, and real-world experience. We follow strict editorial standards and cite primary sources throughout.
References
- Tarbuck, E. J., & Lutgens, F. K. (2017). Earth Science. Pearson.
- Rahmstorf, S., et al. (2015). Exceptional twentieth-century slowdown in Atlantic Ocean overturning circulation. Nature Climate Change, 5, 475-480.
- National Research Council. (2012). A Framework for K-12 Science Education.