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)

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

Open original scan

Page 37

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

Paragraphs

formal, structured

Tone