The shield and its sedimentary cover of a continent together are its: A- Orogenic belt B- Craton C- Exotic terrane D- Platform

To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the options provided based on geological terminology.

1. Orogenic belt: This refers to a region of the Earth's crust that has been affected by folding and faulting, usually associated with mountain building. It does not encompass the entire continent's shield and cover.

2. Craton: This is a stable and ancient part of the continental crust, typically located in the interior of continents. It usually includes the shield, which is the exposed bedrock, and the platform, which is the sedimentary cover.

3. Exotic terrane: This term refers to a fragment of crust that has a distinct geological history and has been transported and added to a continent. It does not describe the combination of shield and sedimentary cover.

4. Platform: This generally refers to the areas of the craton that are covered by sedimentary rocks. While it does include sedimentary cover, it does not refer to the shield part.

Conclusion

The most fitting description of both the shield and its sedimentary cover is given by B- Craton. The craton encompasses the exposed older crystalline rocks (the shield) along with the younger sedimentary layers that cover parts of it.

Final Answer

B- Craton