A strait is a narrow channel of sea that separates two land masses. It is an important geographical feature that plays a significant role in maritime navigation and trade. Here is a detailed explanation of this answer:

Strait:
A strait is a narrow channel of water that connects two larger bodies of water, typically separating two land masses. It is usually formed by the movement of tectonic plates or erosion caused by water currents. Straits can vary in width, depth, and length, and they can be found all around the world.

Key Points:
- A strait is a narrow channel of sea that separates two land masses.
- It is formed by the movement of tectonic plates or erosion caused by water currents.
- Straits can vary in width, depth, and length.
- They are important for maritime navigation and trade.

Importance of Straits:
Straits have significant importance in various aspects, including:

1. Maritime Navigation: Straits serve as important routes for ships to navigate between different seas and oceans. They provide shorter and more direct paths, saving time and fuel for maritime transportation.

2. Trade and Commerce: Many straits are critical for international trade as they connect major water bodies and facilitate the movement of goods between countries. The strategic location of straits makes them ideal for establishing trade routes.

3. Defense and Security: Straits often have strategic importance in terms of defense and security. They can be used to control access to certain regions and provide natural barriers against potential threats.

4. Marine Ecosystems: Straits are often home to diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. These ecosystems support a wide range of marine species and contribute to the overall health of the ocean.

Examples of Straits:
There are numerous well-known straits around the world, including:

- Strait of Gibraltar: It separates Europe from Africa and connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
- Strait of Malacca: It is located between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra, connecting the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea.
- Strait of Hormuz: It is a crucial waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, through which a significant portion of the world's oil supply is transported.
- Bering Strait: It separates Russia's Chukotka Peninsula from Alaska's Seward Peninsula, connecting the Arctic Ocean to the Bering Sea.

In conclusion, a strait is a narrow channel of sea that separates two land masses. It is formed by natural processes and has significant importance in terms of maritime navigation, trade, defense, and marine ecosystems. Examples of famous straits include the Strait of Gibraltar, Strait of Malacca, Strait of Hormuz, and Bering Strait.