The movement and direction of ocean currents are affected by the

The movement and direction of ocean currents are affected by the rotation of the earth. This is because of a phenomenon known as the Coriolis effect. As the earth rotates, it causes the currents to move in a curved path. The Coriolis effect also causes the currents to move clockwise in the southern hemisphere and counterclockwise in the northern hemisphere. The rate of evaporation of sea water, volume of ocean water, and relief of the ocean bed can also have an impact on ocean currents, but the rotation of the earth is the primary factor.