Bay or Sound???

[LoweRider]

Hi Guys,
I was wondering if anyone can explain to me the differences between a sound and a bay. I feel a little silly not knowing since I spent some time growing up on Long Island. Thanks for any answers you might have!
LoweRider

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Bay or Sound???

Bays are more seperated from the ocean than sounds. I think it is a loose definition, however.

Barnegat Bay is clearly a bay as is the Great South Bay. Both have small inlets to the ocean. LI sound has a much larger ocean intersection.

Raritan/Sandy Hook Bay has a pretty good ocean intersection, but is still a bay since it is big.

OK why is shark river a river, and not a sound or bay? The river that feeds it is small, and the ocean intersection is medium sized, both in comparison to the saly water just inland of the bridge over Rt 35.

 

[LoweRider]

Re: Bay or Sound???

Thank You for a quick reply! I knew I could count on you guys , Thanks Again

 

[nwslider]

Re: Bay or Sound???

Basically yes the the two are loosely defined and typically used interchangeably.

See these two links:

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-sound-and-a-bay.htm

http://www.ncaquariums.com/askaquarium/bogue.htm