Describe the differences between active and passive continental margins. Where is each type found?

What will be an ideal response?


The two types of continental margin are passive and active. Nearly the entire Atlantic Ocean and a large portion of the Indian Ocean are surrounded by passive continental margins. By contrast, most of the Pacific Ocean is bordered by active continental margins (subduction zones). Passive margins are where flooded extensions of the continent merge into oceanic crust, and there is active deposition. Active margins are too tectonically active with subduction for sediments to accumulate—they form the Ring of Fire with active volcanism.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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What will be an ideal response?

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences