Dominant physical processes operating in submarine canyon and slope areas of the eastern US continental margin were examined to determine how the effects of human activities on the continental shelf might be transmitted to benthic communities. The physical parameters investigated in detail were sediments and sediment transport, nutrients, and ocean currents. Specific points discussed included: ocean depth, temperature gradients, hydrography, upwelling, and flow distribution.-from STAR, 22(17), 1984
