Continental Margin

A continental margin is the area where the land meets the ocean, typically consisting of the continental shelf, slope, and rise. The continental shelf is a gently sloping part of the continent submerged under water, while the slope is where the shelf drops off more steeply. Finally, the rise consists of materials that have settled from the shelf and slope. These margins are vital for marine life, as they provide important habitats and resources, and they play a significant role in ocean currents and climate. Understanding them helps us appreciate coastal ecosystems and their economic importance.