Assertion (A): Subtropical ocean gyres in the Northern Hemisphere rotate in a clockwise direction, whereas those in the Southern Hemisphere rotate counter-clockwise. Reason (R): The Coriolis force deflects moving water masses to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere, establishing the circular current patterns of ocean gyres.

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason accurately explains the directional rotation of global ocean gyres. The Coriolis force, resulting from Earth's rotation, deflects surface currents driven by planetary wind systems. In the Northern Hemisphere, deflection is to the right, producing clockwise subtropical gyres; in the Southern Hemisphere, deflection is to the left, resulting in counter-clockwise movement. Ekman transport further reinforces this fluid circulation.