large, flat surfaces in which continental sediments settle are called _______.
a) mid - ocean ridges
b) continental slopes
c) continental shelves
d) abyssal plains
e) continental margins
c
Yes. For more about continental shelves, see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continental_shelf
thanks drwls
The correct answer is: c) continental shelves.
To determine the correct option, we need to understand what large, flat surfaces are formed by the settling of continental sediments. In this case, the answer can be found by knowing the characteristics of each option and eliminating the incorrect ones.
a) Mid-ocean ridges: These are underwater mountain ranges formed by tectonic plate activity and are unrelated to the settling of continental sediments.
b) Continental slopes: These are the steep inclines between continental shelves and the deeper ocean floor. They are not large, flat surfaces where sediments settle.
c) Continental shelves: These are the gently sloping, submerged portions of continental landmasses that extend from the shoreline to the continental slope. They are broad, flat surfaces where sediments settle, making them the correct answer.
d) Abyssal plains: These are flat areas on the deep ocean floor, far from the continental shelves. They are not related to the settling of continental sediments.
e) Continental margins: This term is more general and encompasses both the continental shelves and slopes. While both continental shelves and slopes are part of the continental margin, only the shelves are large, flat surfaces where sediments settle.
Therefore, the correct answer is c) continental shelves.