Question

The continental shelf __________.

(a) is a narrow strip on the East Coast of the United States
(b) is a steeply dipping zone dropping off to the deep seafloor
(c) is a featureless plain unlike the neighboring continent
(d) is a gently sloping platform with a variable landscape
(e) all of the above

Answer 1

The continental shelf is a gently sloping platform with a variable landscape, extending from the shoreline to the shelf break. It features a varied bottom that contains valuable geological and ecological information.

Step-by-step explanation:

The continental shelf is the submerged portion of a continent crust in relatively shallow water, stretching from the shoreline to the point where the slope markedly increases, known as the shelf break. This geological feature is not just a narrow strip on the East Coast of the United States; it is a global phenomenon surrounding most continents. Answering the student's question, the continental shelf:

(d) is a gently sloping platform with a variable landscape

The continental shelf typically has a variable landscape, featuring areas of sand and silt, and its energy levels decrease with distance from shore. Notably, during lowstands, when relative sea level is low, the shelf can become exposed. This area is essential for understanding the geological history and current processes, as it contains sediments derived from the continent and hosts unique ecosystems.