Morpholithogenesis factors and processes at shelves of seas and oceans: an experience in systematization

Abstract

On the basis of long-term studies carried on both at the World Ocean and inner seas shelves the authors conclude that the term «morpholithogenesis» can be applied to shelves as well as to land areas, it reflects a natural intrinsic interaction and interrelation of geological, geomorphic and sedimentary processes of relief-formation and sedimentation.

The paper is aimed to systematize active and passive factors features depending on the climatic zonality, some azonal factors (volcanism, tides action, delta formation) being also taken into consideration, A special attention is directed to paleogeographic control of the shelves' morpholithogenesis. Some general characteristics are given of the tope» graphy and sea floor sediments with regard to various types of morpholithogenesis.