*4.7 Oceans

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What is a Continental Shelf?

Back

The Continental Shelf is the underwater land that extends from the shore of a continent to the deep ocean. It is usually shallow and rich in marine life.

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What is a Continental Slope?

Back

The Continental Slope is the steeply sloping area that connects the Continental Shelf to the deep ocean floor. It marks the transition from shallow to deep water.

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What is a Continental Rise?

Back

The Continental Rise is the area at the base of the Continental Slope where sediments accumulate, forming a gentle slope leading to the ocean floor.

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What is an Abyssal Plain?

Back

An Abyssal Plain is a flat, deep ocean floor that is covered with thick layers of sediment. It is one of the flattest and smoothest areas on Earth.

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What causes Ocean Tides?

Back

Ocean Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on Earth's oceans, leading to the rise and fall of sea levels.

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What are Ocean Currents?

Back

Ocean Currents are large-scale movements of water within the oceans, driven by wind, temperature differences, and the Earth's rotation.

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What is the difference between Ocean Waves and Ocean Tides?

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Ocean Waves are caused by wind blowing across the surface of the water, while Ocean Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun.

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What is the importance of the Continental Shelf?

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The Continental Shelf is important for fishing, oil and gas exploration, and as a habitat for many marine species.

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How do Ocean Currents affect climate?

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Ocean Currents help regulate the Earth's climate by distributing heat from the equator to the poles.

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What is the role of the sun in Ocean Tides?

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The sun also exerts a gravitational pull on the oceans, which, along with the moon's pull, influences the height and timing of tides.