The popular name for the body of water separating the eastern United States from Europe is the Atlantic Ocean. This vast ocean is the second-largest in the world, covering about 41 million square miles, and it plays a crucial role in global trade, climate, and ecology. The Atlantic Ocean has historically been a significant route for exploration and colonization, linking the continents and facilitating the exchange of goods and cultures. It features diverse marine life, including numerous species of fish, marine mammals, and coral reefs. The ocean's currents, such as the Gulf Stream, also influence weather patterns and climate in surrounding regions.