(a) Draw a diagram to show the relief features of an ocean floor. (b) Highlight...
(a) Draw a diagram to show the relief features of an ocean floor.
(b) Highlight three main characteristics of the continental shelf.
(c) In what three ways is the continental shelf of importance to man?
Explanation
(a) Diagram showing the relief features of ocean floor
(b) Characteristics of the Continental Shelf
(1) It is a gentle sloping structure
(2) Borders the continent
(3) Continuation into the sea of the coastal plain
(4) Less than 250m deep
(5) Areas of shallow water
(6) Rich in plankton
(7) Contains minerals
(8) The width varies from 32 — 160km
(9) Sunlight is able to penetrate.
(c) Importance of Continental Shelf to Man
(i) It is the richest fishing ground
(ii) Continental shelf contains plankton which are rich in fish food.
(iii) Continental shelf contains minerals such as petroleum.
(iv) It provides site for sporting activities.
(v) It serves as tourist attraction
(vi) Provides site for anchorage of ships
(vii) Serves as recreational centres.