Continental shelves are much narrow or absent in some continents, particularly where Fold Mountains run parallel or close to the coast.

Continental shelves are much narrower or absent in some continents, particularly where Fold Mountains run parallel or close to the coast.

Step 1: Understand the concept of continental shelves Continental shelves are the submerged parts of continents that extend from the shoreline to the continental slope. They are relatively shallow areas of the ocean and play an important role in marine ecosystems.

Step 2: Identify the factors affecting the width or absence of continental shelves In some continents, the continental shelves are much narrower or even absent. One of the main factors contributing to this is the presence of Fold Mountains.

Step 3: Understand the relationship between Fold Mountains and continental shelves Fold Mountains are formed when tectonic plates collide, causing the Earth's crust to fold and uplift. These mountains often run parallel or close to the coastlines of certain continents.

Step 4: Explain the impact of Fold Mountains on continental shelves The presence of Fold Mountains near the coastlines can limit the width of continental shelves or even cause their absence. This is because the uplifted mountains create steep slopes that extend into the ocean, reducing the space for a wider continental shelf.

Step 5: Provide examples of continents where this phenomenon occurs One example of a continent where Fold Mountains run parallel or close to the coast is South America. The Andes Mountains, which are a prominent Fold Mountain range, run parallel to the western coast of South America. As a result, the continental shelf in this region is relatively narrow.

Step 6: Summarize the main point In conclusion, continental shelves are much narrower or absent in some continents, particularly where Fold Mountains run parallel or close to the coast. The presence of these mountains limits the width of the continental shelf due to the steep slopes they create.