The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows up the eastern coast of the United States. It moves warm water northward across the Atlantic Ocean, influencing the climate of nearby regions. This current is part of a larger system known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. As the Gulf Stream travels, it helps moderate temperatures in Western Europe, making the climate milder than in other regions at similar latitudes. The current also plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems, supporting diverse marine life and affecting weather patterns across the Atlantic.