E.3. Divisions Of The Ocean FloorsÂ
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The Continental shelf |
It is the shallowest part of the ocean showing an average gradient of 1° or even less. The shelf typically ends at a very steep slope, called the shelf break. The continental shelves are covered with variable thicknesses of sediments brought down by rivers, glaciers, and wind, from the land and distributed by waves and currents. Massive sedimentary deposits received over a long time by the continental shelves become the source of fossil fuels. |
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The continental Slope |
The continental slope connects the continental shelf and the ocean basins. |
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The deep sea Plain |
Deep sea plains are gently sloping areas of the ocean basins. These are the flattest and smoothest regions of the world. |
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The oceanic Deep |
These areas are the deepest parts of the oceans. The trenches are relatively steep-sided, narrow basins. |