What is the name for the island that is close to and runs parallel to the mainland along the eastern shore?

• A. Estuary
• B. Coastal Plain
• C. Atlantic Ocean
• D. Barrier island

Answer: (D)

Barrier islands are long, narrow islands that lie close to the mainland and run parallel to the coast along the eastern shore. They protect the coast by absorbing waves and storms, creating calmer waters behind them. That description fits the island in question, so barrier island is the best choice. An estuary is where a river meets the sea and freshwater mixes with saltwater, not an island. The Coastal Plain is a broad, flat area of land near the coast, not an island. The Atlantic Ocean is the body of water, not an island.