Which current is directly related to trade winds in the ocean's gyres?

The equatorial current is directly related to trade winds in the ocean's gyres because it is primarily driven by the consistent easterly winds known as trade winds. These winds push surface waters westward along the equator, causing the development of the equatorial current. As the trade winds blow towards the west, they create a current that flows in the same direction, leading to significant oceanic and climatic effects in the regions it influences. This current is a key component of the broader patterns of ocean circulation known as gyres, which include the movement of water towards the western edges of ocean basins. Understanding the relationship between trade winds and the equatorial current is essential for comprehending the dynamics of ocean currents and their impact on both weather patterns and marine ecosystems.