In my atlas, it lists Caspian Sea as a lake. I'm confused

Technically a sea is part of an ocean. Although the Caspian has salt water, it is not connected to any other sea or ocean. It's landlocked, making it a lake.

Sometimes geographical names are not precise -- but have been named by the local people.

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The classification of the Caspian Sea as a lake or a sea has been a subject of debate. While the Caspian Sea is commonly referred to as a sea, it is technically classified as a lake due to its distinct characteristics.

To understand why the Caspian Sea is considered a lake, let's consider the criteria used to differentiate lakes from seas:

1. Size: The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed body of water on Earth, surrounded by land on all sides. It spans an area of approximately 371,000 square kilometers (143,000 square miles).

2. Salinity: In terms of salinity, the Caspian Sea has a lower salt content compared to most seas, but it is still saltwater. It is less salty than the ocean but saltier than most lakes.

3. Origin: The Caspian Sea originated as a result of tectonic activity, specifically the collision of the Eurasian and Arabian tectonic plates. It formed as a remnant of an ancient ocean, gradually becoming isolated and cut off from the open waters.

4. Connectivity: Unlike most seas, the Caspian Sea is not directly connected to any ocean. It is connected to smaller water bodies, such as rivers and canals, and receives inflow from various sources, mainly the Volga River.

The main reason the Caspian Sea is classified as a lake is its lack of oceanic connection. This means that it does not have a direct exchange of water with any of the world's oceans. However, due to its size, saltwater composition, and other characteristics similar to seas, it is often referred to as a "sea" colloquially.

So, while your atlas lists the Caspian Sea as a lake, it is essential to consider the specific criteria used for classification to understand the reasoning behind it.