The Strait of Gibraltar is a narrow waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
It lies between the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula (Europe) and the northwestern coast of Africa.
The country on the European side is Spain (along with the British territory of Gibraltar).
The country on the African side is Morocco.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option A: Algeria is located east of Morocco and does not border the Strait of Gibraltar. Spain does border the strait, but not with Algeria.
Option B: Portugal's coastline is entirely on the Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain. It does not border the Mediterranean Sea or the Strait of Gibraltar.
Option D: Neither Algeria nor Portugal borders the Strait of Gibraltar directly. They are geographically separated from the strait.
Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Geographical knowledge of major world waterways and country borders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Geopolitical Importance: The Strait of Gibraltar is a critical chokepoint for global maritime trade, with thousands of vessels passing through it annually.
Historical Significance: Known in antiquity as the Pillars of Hercules, it has been a strategic location for centuries, contested by various empires and nations.
Ecological Corridor: The strait is a significant migration route for numerous marine species, including whales and dolphins, as well as for birds migrating between Europe and Africa.
How to Approach the Question
First, identify the key geographical feature in the question, which is the 'Strait of Gibraltar'.
Recall or visualize a map of the world, focusing on the region where Europe and Africa are closest.
Identify the body of water that connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Pinpoint the countries that form the northern and southern borders of this strait.
Compare your identified countries with the given options to find the correct pair.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Geographical knowledge of major world waterways and country borders.
Stem keywords: Strait of Gibraltar, separates
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false
Question ID
QbxAUWLHeQlKZHflCsr5eG
Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)
Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.