A:
The Earth's Rotation On Its Axis
B:
Convergence Of The Two Equatorial Currents
C:
Difference In Salinity Of Water
D:
Occurrence Of The Belt Of Calm Near Equator
Explanation
The correct answer is A: The Earth's Rotation On Its Axis.
The Equatorial Counter-Current is a current that flows eastward along the equator, between the two westward flowing equatorial currents. This flow is primarily caused by the Earth's rotation on its axis, which causes the Coriolis effect.
The Coriolis effect is a phenomenon where a moving object on the surface of the Earth is deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. This deflection is caused by the rotation of the Earth, which imparts a rotational velocity to everything on its surface. The Equatorial Counter-Current is affected by the Coriolis effect because it is located at the equator, which is where the rotational velocity of the Earth is the highest.
As a result of the Coriolis effect, the Equatorial Counter-Current flows eastward, against the direction of the two westward flowing equatorial currents. This flow is strongest in the central Pacific Ocean and weaker in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The flow of the Equatorial Counter-Current also varies seasonally due to changes in the strength of the equatorial winds, which can either reinforce or weaken the current.
