What term describes the layer of the ocean floor that extends from the coast to the edge of the continental slope?

The term that describes the layer of the ocean floor extending from the coast to the edge of the continental slope is the continental shelf. This region is characterized by relatively shallow waters compared to the deeper ocean basins. It plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems, providing a habitat for a diverse range of sea life and serving as important fishing grounds. The continental shelf is also significant for economic activities like oil and gas exploration, as well as the extraction of minerals.

In contrast, the ocean basin refers to the deeper parts of the ocean, which are not included in the definition of the continental shelf. The continental rise is found further out and is formed by the accumulation of sediments from the continental slope. The mid-ocean ridge is a system of underwater mountain ranges that marks the boundary between tectonic plates and is generally found much deeper in the ocean. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the continental shelf is the correct choice.