Which term describes a steep incline of the ocean floor leading down from the edge of the continental shelf?

The term that describes a steep incline of the ocean floor leading down from the edge of the continental shelf is the continental slope. This geological feature is characterized by its significant slope, which marks the transition from the relatively shallow continental shelf to the deeper ocean basins. The continental slope is crucial in oceanography as it plays an important role in ocean currents and sediment transport, which can affect marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

The continental shelf, on the other hand, refers to the underwater landmass that extends from a continent, gradually sloping, and is typically shallow compared to the adjacent ocean depths. The continental rise, located further down from the slope, is the area where sediments accumulate, gently sloping down to the ocean floor. The seafloor is a more general term referring to the bottom of the ocean, encompassing a variety of features including the continental slope. Hence, the correct terminology that specifically describes the steep incline leading from the shelf is indeed the continental slope.