Continental Shelf Sediments

Continental shelf sediments are particles like sand, mud, and organic matter that settle on the seafloor of the gently sloping area extending from a continent's coast to the deeper ocean. This region, known as the continental shelf, is relatively shallow compared to the open ocean. These sediments form through processes such as the weathering of rocks, the accumulation of remains from marine organisms, and the transportation of materials by currents. They are important because they support diverse marine life, influence seabed ecology, and can contain natural resources like oil, gas, and minerals.