Which statement(s) concerning the effect of Coriolis force on ocean currents is(are) correct?

The correct answer highlights the unique characteristics of the Coriolis force and its influence on ocean currents. The Coriolis force arises due to the rotation of the Earth, causing moving objects, including water in the oceans, to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.

In deep water, currents have a greater distance over which to be influenced by this rotational effect. As a result, the deflection caused by the Coriolis force becomes more pronounced. Deep ocean currents, which can move at significant velocities and over vast expanses, are significantly affected by the Coriolis force, making it essential for understanding the behavior of global ocean circulation patterns.

In shallow water, the influence of the Coriolis force diminishes because friction with the seafloor and other factors become more predominant. As such, the dynamics of shallow water currents are not as strongly dictated by the Coriolis effect as they are in deeper waters.

Understanding that the Coriolis force is more effective in deep water is crucial for predicting the behavior of large-scale ocean currents, which play a vital role in climate regulation and marine navigation.