Peruvian Current

ORIGINATING IN THE frigid waters off the coast of Antarctica, the Peruvian Current moves north along the western coast of South America. When in reaches the continental shelf along South America, the current rises, carrying cold water with it to the surface of the Pacific Ocean. The prevailing winds of the South Pacific and Earths rotation cause the Peruvian Current to rotate; the Coriolis Force causes the current to rotate clockwise. The Peruvian Current extends 125 mi. (201 km.) west from the coast of South America. As the current moves north through the coasts of Chile, Peru and Ecuador it splits into two masses where Cabo Blanco, Peru, meets the Gulf of Guyanquil. The main current turns west into the Pacific Ocean, while the remnant ...