The Name and Characteristics of the Denmark Strait: A Comprehensive Guide
The strait between Greenland and Iceland is known by several names, and understanding why it is called the Denmark Strait or the Greenland Strait involves a mix of historical context and current geopolitical considerations. This article aims to clarify the naming conventions and provide a detailed overview of this important body of water.
Naming Conventions
Historically, the strait has been referred to as the Denmark Strait due to its discovery in the 17th century when Iceland was part of the Danish realm. However, in contemporary Iceland, the strait is more commonly known as the Greenland Strait or Grnlandssund, a term that reflects the current political separation of Iceland from Denmark. This change in terminology reflects the evolving relationship between these two nations.
Geographical and Hydrological Features
The Denmark Strait, also known as the Greenland Strait, is an oceanic strait situated partially within the Arctic Circle. It lies between Greenland to the west and Iceland to the east. At its narrowest point, the strait spans approximately 180 miles (290 km) wide. Its length is about 300 miles (483 km) and it extends southward from the Greenland Sea to the open waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Several major currents flow through this strait. The Cold East Greenland Current flows southward along the west side of the strait, carrying icebergs from the Arctic Ocean and the Greenland ice cap. A branch of the Irminger Current, a warmer current, flows northward along the Iceland coast. These currents play a crucial role in the movement of water and ice in the Arctic and Atlantic regions.
International Significance
The Denmark Strait is not only significant for its geological features but also for its importance in maritime and geopolitical considerations. It connects the Greenland Sea, an extension of the Arctic Ocean, to the Irminger Sea, part of the Atlantic Ocean. The strait serves as a crucial transportation route and is vital for maritime navigation.
Official Boundaries
The official International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) delineation between the Arctic and the North Atlantic Oceans runs from Straumnes, the northwestern headland of the north-west Icelandic peninsula of Hornstrandir, to Cape Nansen, 132 km (82 miles) southwest of Cape Tupinier on the Blosseville Coast in East Greenland. From Straumnes to Cape Nansen, the distance is 336 km (209 miles).
Conclusion
The name of the strait between Greenland and Iceland is a subject of both historical and contemporary significance. While the strait is officially known as the Danmark Strait or Danmarksstrdet, it is more commonly referred to as the Greenland Strait in contemporary Iceland. Understanding the geographical and hydrological features of the Denmark Strait is crucial for anyone interested in Arctic and North Atlantic Oceanography, navigation, and geopolitical studies.
Keywords: Denmark Strait, Greenland Strait, Arctic Ocean