Ocean currents are primarily driven by several key factors :-

1. Wind Patterns : The wind drape the sea surface water in the direction of its motion due to frictional drag and this leads to oceanic current generated. For example, In tropical areas the oceanic current moves from east to west under the influence of trade wind whereas in middle latitude areas the oceanic current becomes west to east under the influence of westerlies.
2. Coriolis Force (Rotation of Earth) : The cold sub surface water upwells along the western margin of continent near the tropics due to Coriolis force or rotation of earth. In Northern Hemisphere, currents are deflected to the right, while in the Southern Hemisphere they are deflected to the left.
3.   Density (Temperature and Salinity Differences ) : Density is higher near the poles and lower near the equator. Due to this, Sea surface level remains lower near the equator in comparison to poles. Because of difference in sea surface level the surface oceanic water tends to flow in circulation motion.
4.  Geographical Features : The shape of coastlines , the presence of islands and the  configuration of the ocean floor can alter the flow of currents.
5. Tides: The gravitational pull of the moon and the sun affects ocean tides can also influence the movement of water.

Current of the Atlantic Oceans :

1. Gulf Stream : A warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows up the eastern coast of the United States before heading toward Europe.
2.  North Equatorial Current: A warm current that flows westward in the tropics, located north of the equator.
3. South Atlantic Current: A cold current that flows eastward across the southern part of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Ocean Current themselves play a notable role in determining the regional currents, navigation, fishing patterns and oceanic ecosystems.