World Oceans — Marginal Seas of the Atlantic Basin Which of the following shallow or semi-enclosed marginal seas are considered parts of (or connected to) the Atlantic basin? Select the most inclusive choice.

Introduction / Context:
The Atlantic Ocean includes numerous marginal seas that are shallow relative to the abyssal plains and either partly enclosed or connected through narrow straits and shelves. Examinations often check whether learners can recognize which seas are geographically and hydrologically linked to the Atlantic basin rather than to other ocean basins.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The prompt mentions “shallow seas found in the Atlantic basin.”
• Candidate seas include the Caribbean Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Baltic Sea, Arctic seas, and the Gulf of Mexico.
• We must identify the broadest correct set.

Concept / Approach:

A marginal sea is a partially enclosed body of water adjacent to an ocean and connected by straits or over continental shelves. The Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico are classic Atlantic marginal seas of the Americas. The Mediterranean Sea communicates with the Atlantic via the Strait of Gibraltar, and despite its unique hydrography, it is treated as part of the Atlantic system. The Baltic Sea connects to the North Sea (and thus the Atlantic) via the Danish straits. Arctic seas exchange with the Atlantic through the Norwegian and Greenland Seas and Fram Strait, providing an Atlantic–Arctic gateway.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify which listed seas have direct connections to the Atlantic or its shelves.Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico: clear Atlantic marginal seas.Mediterranean: semi-enclosed but linked via Gibraltar.Baltic and Arctic seas: linked through the North Atlantic gateway.Therefore, choose the most inclusive option.

Verification / Alternative check:

Physical oceanography maps show water mass exchanges and currents connecting these seas to the Atlantic, confirming their basin affiliation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Caribbean and Mediterranean only: Omits the Baltic, Arctic seas, and Gulf of Mexico.Baltic and Arctic only: Omits other prominent Atlantic marginals.Gulf of Mexico only: Too narrow.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming “Arctic seas” are wholly separate; while they belong to the Arctic Ocean, several are dynamically connected to the Atlantic basin and commonly grouped in broader Atlantic discussions.

Final Answer:

All of the above