Re: how do ocean currents interact with atmospheric circulation patterns.

Basically, there are two types of ocean currents: surface and deep ocean. The surface currents, such as the warm Gulf stream, are driven by global wind distribution and are shaped by the continents. The deep ocean current refers to the surface water sinking to the bottom of the ocean and resurfacing again. Unlike surface current, which is directly driven by the wind, the deep ocean current resurfaces at the regions where winds drive the surface water apart, causing an upwelling. These regions are also where deep ocean currents mix with the surface currents.

To put it in simple terms, I think that, on a global scale, atmospheric circulation has a greater influence on the ocean currents, even though there are instances of feedback. The close coupling between the atmospheric circulation and ocean currents is best exemplified by El Nino, which occurs at the Equatorial Pacific Ocean and has a global impact.