CONTINENTAL SHELVES Meaning and
Definition
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Continental shelves are underwater extensions of the continents that form the shallow edges of the continents before they drop off into the deeper ocean. These areas are characterized by gentle slopes and are quite wide, covering significant portions of the Earth's oceanic areas. Continental shelves extend from the shoreline to an average depth of approximately 200 meters, although they can vary in width and depth depending on the location.
The shelves are composed of primarily continental crust, which is formed by the accumulation of sediments and rock material eroded from the adjacent landmass. The sediments are often deposited by rivers, glaciers, or wind, creating a layered structure on top of the solid bedrock. These sediments may include sand, silt, clay, gravel, and even organic matter.
Continental shelves are especially important as they support diverse and productive ecosystems. The shallow waters of these shelves receive ample sunlight, allowing a variety of marine plants, such as kelp forests and seagrasses, to flourish. These plants provide habitats and food sources for many marine organisms, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Additionally, the gently sloping topography of the shelves promotes the entrainment of nutrient-rich water from the deeper ocean to the surface, further enhancing biological productivity.
In terms of human activities, continental shelves are of great economic significance. They serve as prime locations for fishing, oil and gas exploration, and extraction of mineral resources. Additionally, they also offer important pathways for transportation and communication cables, facilitating international trade and information exchange.
Etymology of CONTINENTAL SHELVES
The term "continental shelf" originates from a combination of the Latin word "continēre" and the Old English word "sceald" or "scealu".
The Latin word "continēre" means "to hold together" or "to contain". It implies the idea of extension or continuation.
The Old English word "sceald" or "scealu" means "shelf" or "ledge". It refers to a flat, shallow area or platform.
So, when these two words are combined, "continēre" and "sceald", they create the term "continental shelf", which describes the extended, shallow areas of the Earth's continents that extend into the oceans.
