Question Q16Defining, highlight resource potential and ecological significanceGS1GS1
Defining continental shelf, highlight its resource potential and ecological significance.
Introduction
Continental shelf is the starting point of any ocean body which is characterised by very gentle slope and which goes upto 5-10 km after which continental slope begins.
28 words
Main Body
The continental shelf extends from the shoreline as a gently sloping underwater platform. It is characterized by a very gentle slope that extends 5-10 km before the continental slope begins.
Resource potential:
1Gas and oil reserves found near continental shelf in Bombay High.
2High fish resources due to it being photric zone in SOL (Sunlit Ocean Layer)
3Polymetallic nodules and other metallic and non-metallic minerals in copper, Manganese, silver, etc.
4Corals found on continental shelf as best zone in Lakshadweep, Great Barrier Reef.
5Medicinal plants like seagrass and sea weeds, etc.
Ecological significance:
1Acts as 'ecotone' and thus highly productive region.
2Corals are 'rainforests' of oceans and most productive ecosystem.
3Restoration services like natural barrier for floods, cyclones, etc.
4Photis zone where light reaches and thus meet marine life in this region
5Acts as a support service by supporting livelihood of coastal community (multilateral)
— Harsh Lodha · AIR 261
154 words1 paragraphs
Conclusion
Thus, continental shelf is marine landform which is very important ecologically & strategically.
13 words
Diagram
Diagram showing continental shelf transitioning to continental slope with labels indicating the different zones
- Clear definition of continental shelf
- Visual diagram provided to illustrate concept
- Structured approach with resource potential section
Steal this copy's techniques PremiumAI pulls out the reusable moves — pick the ones you want as flashcards
Topper
Harsh Lodha
AIR 2612023
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
World's Physical Geography
Continental Shelf
Resource Potential and Ecological Significance
Writing Stats
195
Total words
1
Paragraphs
formal, structured
Tone