What term describes a shallow body of water separated from a larger body of water by barrier islands or reefs?

The term that describes a shallow body of water that is separated from a larger body of water by barrier islands or reefs is a lagoon. Lagoons typically form along coastlines and are characterized by their calm, shallow waters, which can support diverse ecosystems.

This geographical formation can be found in various locations around the world, often serving important ecological functions and providing habitats for marine life. The presence of barrier islands or reefs helps protect the lagoon from the stronger waves and currents of the larger ocean, allowing a unique environment to develop.

In contrast, an estuary is a partially enclosed coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, while a basin refers more generally to a low-lying area that can collect water. A bay, on the other hand, is an area of water that is partially enclosed by land but is larger and deeper than a lagoon, generally opening directly to the ocean. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why lagoon is the appropriate term for a shallow body of water enclosed by barriers.