The ocean to the west of Africa is the Atlantic Ocean. It spans from the northern reaches of Europe and North America a bit down to the southern parts of South America and Africa. The Atlantic Ocean is known for its historical significance in exploration and trade routes, including the transatlantic slave trade. It also plays a vital role in global climate patterns and ocean currents, impacting the weather systems on both sides of the Atlantic. Major features of the Atlantic include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is an underwater mountain range that contributes to the geological understanding of plate tectonics.