Surface currents are large-scale movements of water that occur in the upper layer of the ocean, typically within the top 400 meters. These currents are primarily driven by wind patterns, the Earth's rotation, and the position of continents. They play a crucial role in regulating climate by distributing heat from the equator to the poles. These currents can be found in various ocean basins and are often organized into circular patterns known as gyres. Major surface currents, such as the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean, significantly influence weather and marine ecosystems by affecting temperature and nutrient distribution.