Which feature lies beyond the continental slope?

• A. Abyssal plain
• B. Depths of seafloor
• C. Trench
• D. Continental shelf

Answer: (A)

Beyond the continental slope lies the abyssal plain, a vast, flat region of the deep ocean floor. As you move from shore, the margin typically goes from shallow continental shelf to a steep continental slope, then to a gentler rise and finally the smooth, broad abyssal plain. This plain is found at great depths, usually around 3,000 to 6,000 meters, and is covered with fine sediments that create its relatively level surface. The trench is a different feature tied to subduction zones at some margins, and the continental shelf is the shallower region before the slope, so the abyssal plain best fits the description of what lies beyond the slope.