Question

In general, continental shelves tend to be wider in the __________.

(a) Pacific ocean, because its margins tend to be active
(b) Atlantic ocean, because its margins tend to be passive
(c) Atlantic ocean, because its margins tend to be active
(d) Pacific ocean, because its margins tend to be passive

Answer 1

Continental shelves tend to be wider in the Atlantic Ocean due its passive margins that allow for sediment accumulation, unlike the narrower shelves of the tectonically active Pacific Ocean margins.

Step-by-step explanation:

In general, continental shelves tend to be wider in the Atlantic Ocean, because its margins tend to be passive. This is due to the geological history of rifting and tectonic activity. As continents drift apart, they form different types of margins. The Atlantic Ocean is generally characterized by passive margins, which are areas with little to no recent tectonic activity, allowing for the gradual accumulation of sediments over time and development of wider continental shelves. In contrast, the Pacific Ocean margins are often active, associated with tectonic plate boundaries that lead to earthquakes, mountain building, and volcanic activity, hence resulting in generally narrower shelves due to ongoing geological disturbances.