The continental shelves were developed in between the glacial periods as the ocean flowed over the continents forming shallow areas along the coasts. The continental shelves developed today were formed like 18000 years ago.
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Continental shelves are formed by the deposition of sediments eroded from continents onto the submerged edge of the continent. Over time, these sediments build up, extending the landmass into the ocean. Changes in sea level and tectonic activity can also influence the formation and shape of continental shelves.
The formation of the continental shelves occurred millions of years ago in between glacial periods when the oceans flowed over these large land masses or continents. The continental shelves are submerged parts of continents that slope down into the ocean.
The continental shelves were developed in between the glacial periods as the ocean flowed over the continents forming shallow areas along the coasts. The continental shelves developed today were formed like 18000 years ago.
Glacial periods as the ocean flowed over the continents forming shallow areas along the coasts.
Some examples of continental shelves include the North American Continental Shelf, the Australian Continental Shelf, and the South American Continental Shelf. Each of these shelves extends from the continent's coast to varying distances into the ocean before dropping off into deeper waters.
glaciers
continental shelves
Continental shelves typically end where the seafloor drops off into the open ocean, known as the continental slope. This transition point can vary in depth but is usually around 200 meters (656 feet) deep. Beyond the continental slope lies the deep ocean floor known as the abyssal plain.
The thickest deposits of terrigenous sediment typically form in areas close to continental margins, where there is a high input of sediment from rivers, glaciers, and wind. These areas can include continental shelves, slopes, and fans.