Maps Expose Unseen Details of the Atlantic Ocean Floor

This distinctive physical map of the Atlantic Ocean floor appeared on National Geographic as a supplement to the map of the Atlantic. The detail of such submarine terrain as continental slopes, abyssal plains, and the mighty Mid-Atlantic Ridge is stunning.

Groundbreaking map of the ocean floor created by technician Marie Tharp and Professor Bruce Heezen, image via The Earth Institute, Columbia University. Together, Marie and Bruce rewrote 20th century geophysics by creating the first systematic, comprehensive map of the entire ocean floor. This paved the way for general acceptance of the theories of continental drift and plate tectonics.

Credit: National Geographic Maps

Unseen Details of Seafloor Exposed in These Maps of the Atlantic Ocean Floor