Ocean Topography Flashcard

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What is a continental shelf?

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The continental shelf is the submerged border of a continent that slopes gently into the ocean, typically extending from the shoreline to a depth of about 200 meters.

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What is an abyssal plain?

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An abyssal plain is a flat or gently sloping area of the deep ocean floor, usually found at depths between 3,000 and 6,000 meters.

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What is a continental slope?

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The continental slope is the steeply sloping area between the continental shelf and the deep ocean floor, where the ocean floor drops off sharply.

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What is a mid-ocean ridge?

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A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created as tectonic plates pull apart.

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What is a volcanic island?

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A volcanic island is an island formed by volcanic activity, typically arising from the ocean floor due to eruptions.

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What is a seamount?

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A seamount is an underwater mountain that rises from the ocean floor but does not reach the surface of the water.

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What are ocean trenches?

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Ocean trenches are deep, narrow depressions in the ocean floor, often formed by the subduction of one tectonic plate beneath another.

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What is the significance of ocean topography?

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Ocean topography affects ocean currents, marine ecosystems, and climate patterns, influencing weather and biodiversity.

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How do ocean currents relate to ocean topography?

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Ocean currents are influenced by the shape of the ocean floor, which can direct the flow of water and affect climate and weather patterns.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What is the difference between a seamount and a volcanic island?

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A seamount is underwater and does not reach the surface, while a volcanic island is above water and formed by volcanic activity.