The geographical term for a narrow body of water between two land masses is a strait. Straits are essential for navigation and maritime trade, often connecting larger bodies of water, such as seas and oceans. A well-known example is the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Spain from Morocco, linking the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. Straits can also impact local ecosystems and marine life due to their unique hydrological characteristics. They often serve as vital passages for various vessels, making them strategically important for commerce and military operations throughout history.