Which process predominantly facilitates transfer of nutrients required in surface waters by phytoplankton during coastal upwelling events?

💡 Explanation

During coastal upwelling, stronger winds cause surface waters to diverge and be transported offshore through Ekman transport because of the Coriolis effect, resulting in a draw of nutrient-rich subsurface waters to supply needed materials. Therefore, Ekman transport prevails rather than solute diffusion, atmospheric aerosol deposition or river runoff effects, which are all less impactful in this specific upwelling scenario.

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