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Letter UGeology glossary

Upwelling

Upwelling is the process by which deep, cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, typically along coastal regions where winds drive surface waters away from the coast. Upwelling is significant in oceanography and marine biology for its role in supporting high biological productivity, influencing climate, and driving marine ecosystems.

Diagram illustrating ocean upwelling near coastline (upwelling)
Fig. 1 Diagram illustrating ocean upwelling near coastline (upwelling)

Source Sverdrup, H. U., Johnson, M. W., & Fleming, R. H. (1942). “The Oceans: Their Physics, Chemistry, and General Biology.” Prentice Hall.

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