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South Atlantic Current

ocean current

Quick Summary

The South Atlantic Current is an ocean current in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is a branch of the Brazil Current, which flows eastward off the coast of South America around 30°–40° S latitude. The South Atlantic Current then turns northward along the African coast, becoming the Benguela Current. This current is influenced by prevailing winds, land boundaries, evaporation and precipitation, temperature differences, friction, and Earth's rotation. The Benguela Current is known for upwelling cool water rich in plankton, creating productive fishing grounds.123

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