Which ocean current flows around Antarctica without being blocked by continents?

The ocean current that flows around Antarctica without being blocked by continents is the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. It travels generally from west to east around the continent, connecting the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans.

The current is driven mainly by strong westerly winds and is reinforced by the shape and depth of the Southern Ocean. Because no continent interrupts its path, it can circulate continuously around Antarctica. This makes it the only current that completely circles the planet.

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current transports an estimated 100 to 150 million cubic metres of water per second, making it the largest ocean current by volume transport. It helps redistribute heat, salt, nutrients and carbon between ocean basins.

The current also contributes to Antarctica's climatic isolation. By limiting the movement of warmer surface waters toward the continent, it helps preserve the cold conditions that support the Antarctic ice sheet and surrounding sea ice.