A super-big whirlpool made of ocean currents that circle slowly.

Why it matters: Gyres move heat, nutrients, and sadly… rubbish, creating the “garbage patches.”

Fun Fact: The North Pacific Patch is bigger than France, Spain, and Germany combined!

Say it like this: JY-er

Your turn: Spin around three times, now you’re a gyre! Try walking straight without wobbling.

We have something for you: Sophia the Seahorse wrote a fantastic article about the North Pacific Patch.