Consider the following statements: 1. Ocean currents are the slow surface movement of water in the ocean. 2. Ocean currents assist in maintaining the Earth’s heat balance. 3. Ocean currents are set in motion primarily by prevailing winds. 4. Ocean currents are affected by the configuration of the ocean. Which of these statements are correct?

The correct answer is D because all four statements accurately describe the characteristics and functions of ocean currents. Statement 1 is correct because ocean currents represent the continuous, directed movement of seawater. While some currents are deep, the most well known are the surface movements driven by environmental factors. Statement 2 is correct because ocean currents act as a conveyor belt, transporting warm water from the equator toward the poles and cold water back to the tropics, thereby regulating global temperatures and maintaining the Earth heat balance. Statement 3 is correct because prevailing winds like the Trade Winds and Westerlies are the primary driving force that pushes surface water, initiating the flow of major ocean currents. Statement 4 is correct because the shape of coastlines and the relief of the ocean floor modify the direction and path of these currents, a phenomenon known as the configuration of the ocean.