With reference to the global distribution of ocean currents, consider the following assertions: Assertion (A): The western coasts of continents in subtropical latitudes tend to be bordered by cold ocean currents that stabilize the atmosphere and reduce precipitation. Reason (R): Cold ocean currents flowing equatorward chill the overlying air mass, inhibiting vertical convection and cloud formation. Which of the following is correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Subtropical western continental margins feature cold equatorward currents like the Benguela, Peru, and California currents, which cool marine air masses from below and create stable atmospheric conditions that suppress rainfall. This suppression of convection directly contributes to coastal arid conditions such as the Namib and Atacama deserts. Warm currents along eastern continental margins enhance atmospheric instability and precipitation. Thermohaline circulation interacts with these surface wind-driven gyres globally.