Atmosphere and Ocean - 13
The Gulf Stream is a strong, fast moving, warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It is generally contains very warm, deep, and narrow currents that carry water from the tropics to the poles. The Gulf Stream was first discovered in 1513 by the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and was then used extensively by Spanish ships as they travelled from the Caribbean to Spain. In 1786, Benjamin Franklin mapped the current, further increasing its usage.   
The Gulf Stream, like all other ocean currents is mainly caused by wind as it creates friction when moving over the water. This friction then forces the water to move in the same direction. The Gulf Stream is typically 62 mi wide and 2,600 ft to 3,900 ft deep. The maximum speed is about 5.6 mph.
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