Question 16HighlightGS1GS1
Defining continental shelf, highlight its resource potential and ecological significance.
Introduction
Continental shelves occupy about 7.5% of the world's oceanic landmass.
10 words
Main Body
Definition: Continental shelf is a seaward extension of the continental plate and is a link to the continental slope. The length of the continental shelf varies. Ex- longestSiberian shelf.
[Diagram showing continental shelf, sea water, continental crust]
Continental shelfresource potential
1It is a rich source of fishing resource due its nutrient richness (polar nitrogen, phosphorone, calcium etc).
2It houses 70% of world's oil and natural gas reserves. Ex- Mumbai High
3It is source of rare earth metals - 6% of the world's resources found here.
4Important source of thorium for India - 10% of thorium found here.
5Good place for maritime coastal shipping. Ex- India-Bangladesh.
6Reservoir of polymetallic nodules.
Continental shelvesecological significance
1Rich biodiversity hotspot. Ex- Central Mexico continental shelf,
South China sea shelf.
2By being a good source of nutrients, it supports planktons, crustaceans etc thereby supporting food chains.
3Houses coral species → diversity of ecology. Ex- Australian shelf.
4Contains maritime migration routes and preservation sites. Ex- Gulf of Mannar area houses Dugong.
5Contains warm water which is important for certain fish species.
191 words4 paragraphs
Conclusion
The continental shelf is a storehouse of minerals and ecological resources and its preservation is key to achieving SDG-14 (life under water).
22 words
Diagram
Diagram showing continental shelf structure with labels for continental shelf, sea water, and continental crust
- Clear diagram
- Precise definitions with statistics
Topper
Ritika Rath
AIR 48
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Geography
Physical Geography
Geophysical features and water bodies
Writing Stats
223
Total words
4
Paragraphs