What is a narrow channel of water connecting two larger water bodies called?
a) Isthmus
b) Strait
c) Gulf
d) Bay
Answer: b) Strait
Explanation
-
Strait: A naturally formed narrow channel of water that connects two larger bodies of water (such as seas, gulfs, or oceans).
-
Geographical Significance: Straits serve as critical maritime trade routes and naval choke points around the world.
-
Key Examples in & Near India:
-
Palk Strait: Connects the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar (Palk Bay) in the southwest, separating Tamil Nadu (India) from Sri Lanka.
-
Strait of Malacca: Connects the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean (South China Sea), serving as one of the world’s most vital shipping corridors.
-
Strait of Hormuz: Connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
-
Overview of Other Options
-
a) Isthmus: A narrow strip of land bordered by water on two sides that connects two larger landmasses (e.g., Isthmus of Panama). It is the geographical inverse of a strait.
-
c) Gulf: A large, deep inlet of the sea almost surrounded by land, usually with a narrow mouth (e.g., Gulf of Khambhat, Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat).
-
d) Bay: A broad, curving coastal body of water where the land curves inward, usually broader than a gulf (e.g., Bay of Bengal).
