🔍 Key Concepts

• Gulf Stream axis as the region of strongest current, not the very edge of the stream • Typical offshore distance of the Gulf Stream along the southeast Florida coast • How charted current information is shown on pilot charts or Coast Pilot for Florida waters

💭 Think About

• Think about whether the core of a major western boundary current like the Gulf Stream hugs the beach or lies farther offshore • Consider what distance range is realistic for deep, fast-moving ocean currents compared to the width of the continental shelf off Palm Beach • Ask yourself which choices seem too close inshore to allow for the full development of the Gulf Stream’s main axis

✅ Before You Answer

• Compare each option with what you’d expect for a strong ocean current core relative to the continental shelf break • Eliminate any distances that would place the Gulf Stream’s main axis almost on the beach or in very shallow water • Focus on which distance best matches a position in deeper offshore water rather than near-coastal waters