The name of the second largest ocean on Earth is the Atlantic Ocean. Covering an area of about 41 million square miles (106 million square kilometers), it is surpassed in size only by the Pacific Ocean. The Atlantic Ocean is bordered by North and South America to the west and Europe and Africa to the east. It plays a crucial role in global trade, weather patterns, and marine biodiversity. The ocean is known for its rich historical significance, having been a major route for exploration and trade. It also features various ecosystems, including coral reefs, continental shelves, and deep-sea trenches.