Geology Test: Can You Identify These Minerals? Trivia Quiz
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This trivia quiz is a geology test: can you identify these minerals? There are different types of minerals that can be found below the earth surface some are extremely rare while others are too common. Do you think you are so good at geology and can easily identify them by looking at them? Worry not as trying this quiz ensures that you get to refresh your memory. All the best!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Rocks that are high in silca content melt at lower temperatures than rocks with low silica content:
- A.
Ture
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TureExplanation
Rocks with high silica content have a higher melting point because silica has a strong bond, requiring more energy to break those bonds and melt the rock. Therefore, rocks with low silica content have a lower melting point as they have weaker bonds.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Rocks with high silica content have higher specific gravity than rocks with low silica content:
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Rocks with high silica content do not necessarily have higher specific gravity than rocks with low silica content. The specific gravity of a rock depends on its composition, density, and mineral content, not just the silica content. Other factors such as the presence of heavy minerals or the compactness of the rock can also affect its specific gravity. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that rocks with high silica content always have higher specific gravity.Rate this question:
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- 3.
One way to decompress rocks and causing melting is to
- A.
Open a rift in the seafloor or on the continent
- B.
Subduct some seafloor down a trench
- C.
Bury the seafloor under sediments
- D.
Bury the crust under lava flows
Correct Answer
A. Open a rift in the seafloor or on the continentExplanation
Opening a rift in the seafloor or on the continent is a way to decompress rocks and cause melting. This process involves the separation of tectonic plates, creating a gap or rift where the underlying rocks experience reduced pressure. As the pressure decreases, the rocks can undergo decompression melting, leading to the formation of magma. This can occur both underwater in the seafloor or on land in continental rift zones, such as the East African Rift System.Rate this question:
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- 4.
A batholith is
- A.
Made up of a single igneous intrusion
- B.
A volcanoclastic rock body
- C.
A common feature at midocean ridges
- D.
A feature that forms when seafloor is subducted under a continent
Correct Answer
D. A feature that forms when seafloor is subducted under a continentExplanation
A batholith is a feature that forms when seafloor is subducted under a continent. This process occurs when an oceanic plate is forced beneath a continental plate in a convergent plate boundary. As the oceanic plate sinks into the mantle, it heats up and undergoes partial melting. The melted rock then rises through the overlying continental crust and solidifies to form a large, intrusive body of igneous rock known as a batholith. Batholiths are typically composed of granitic or granodioritic rock and can cover extensive areas. They are often exposed at the Earth's surface due to erosion of the overlying rocks.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A sill is an igneous intrusion that
- A.
Is parallel to the host sedimentary beds
- B.
Intersects host sedimentary beds at a high angle
- C.
Is an extrusive igneous rock
- D.
Forms through cataclasis
Correct Answer
A. Is parallel to the host sedimentary bedsExplanation
A sill is an igneous intrusion that is parallel to the host sedimentary beds. This means that it forms horizontally within the layers of sedimentary rock, rather than cutting across them at an angle. Sills are formed when magma is injected into the spaces between sedimentary layers and then solidifies. The parallel orientation of the sill is a result of the magma following the path of least resistance along the bedding planes of the sedimentary rock.Rate this question:
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- 6.
All other factors being equal, intrusive rocks that form deep within Earth ________ than intrusive rocks that cool near the surface
- A.
Are more felsic
- B.
Contain smaller portions of volatiles
- C.
Cool more slowly
- D.
Cool more rapidly
Correct Answer
C. Cool more slowlyExplanation
Intrusive rocks that form deep within Earth cool more slowly than intrusive rocks that cool near the surface. This is because rocks that form deep within the Earth are insulated by the surrounding layers of rock, which slows down the cooling process. On the other hand, rocks that cool near the surface are exposed to the cooler temperatures of the atmosphere, allowing them to cool more rapidly. As a result, the slower cooling of deep-seated intrusive rocks allows for larger mineral crystals to form, while the faster cooling near-surface rocks have smaller mineral crystals.Rate this question:
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- 7.
An island volcanic occurs at ______
- A.
The Andes Mountains
- B.
The Aleutian Islands of Alaska
- C.
Mt. Saint Helens
- D.
Hawaii
Correct Answer
B. The Aleutian Islands of AlaskaExplanation
The Aleutian Islands of Alaska are known for their volcanic activity. The islands are located in a region where the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate meet, resulting in frequent volcanic eruptions. This volcanic activity is caused by the subduction of the Pacific Plate under the North American Plate, creating a volcanic arc along the Aleutian Islands. Therefore, it is likely that a volcanic occurrence would be found in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Coarse grained granite is most similar in mineral composition to fine-grained ________
- A.
Basalt
- B.
Rhyolite
- C.
Andesite
- D.
Komatiite
Correct Answer
B. RhyoliteExplanation
Coarse-grained granite is composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. Rhyolite, which is the correct answer, also consists of the same minerals but in a fine-grained texture. Both granite and rhyolite are formed from the slow cooling of magma or lava, resulting in the crystallization of minerals. Basalt, andesite, and komatiite are all different types of volcanic rocks with different mineral compositions compared to granite.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In 79 C.E. the citizens of Pompeii in the Roman Empire were buried by pyroclastic debris derived from an eruption of
- A.
Mt. Olympus
- B.
Olympus Mons
- C.
Mt. Vesuvius
- D.
Mt. St. Helens
Correct Answer
C. Mt. VesuviusExplanation
In 79 C.E., the citizens of Pompeii in the Roman Empire were buried by pyroclastic debris. This debris was derived from an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Mt. Vesuvius is a volcano located near the city of Naples in Italy. Its eruption in 79 C.E. was one of the most catastrophic volcanic events in history, resulting in the destruction and burial of Pompeii and other nearby cities. The eruption was so powerful that it buried the entire city under layers of ash and volcanic material, preserving it for centuries and providing valuable insights into ancient Roman life.Rate this question:
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- 10.
If a volcano is erupting a gassy, felsic magma, then it is most likely to be _____.
- A.
An "effusive" eruption
- B.
An explosive eruption
- C.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. An explosive eruptionExplanation
When a volcano is erupting a gassy, felsic magma, it is most likely to result in an explosive eruption. This is because felsic magma has a high silica content, making it thick and sticky. The gas trapped in this magma builds up pressure until it eventually explodes, causing a violent and explosive eruption. Effusive eruptions, on the other hand, occur when less viscous magma, such as basaltic magma, flows out of the volcano in a relatively gentle manner. Therefore, the correct answer is an explosive eruption.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The majority of rocks that occur on the surface of the Earth are
- A.
Intrusive igneous rocks
- B.
Extrusive igneous rocks
- C.
Sedimentary rocks
- D.
Metamorphic rock
Correct Answer
C. Sedimentary rocksExplanation
The majority of rocks that occur on the surface of the Earth are sedimentary rocks. This is because sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compression of sediments over time. These sediments can come from the weathering and erosion of other rocks, as well as the remains of plants and animals. Sedimentary rocks are often found in layers or strata, and they can contain fossils, making them important for understanding Earth's history. In contrast, intrusive igneous rocks form beneath the Earth's surface, extrusive igneous rocks are formed from volcanic activity, and metamorphic rocks are formed through the transformation of existing rocks under intense heat and pressure.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A void left by an air bubble that was trapped when lava solidified into rock is termed ________.
- A.
A vesicle
- B.
A lahar
- C.
An effusive chondrite
Correct Answer
A. A vesicleExplanation
When lava solidifies into rock, it sometimes traps air bubbles within it. These air bubbles create voids or empty spaces in the rock. These voids are called vesicles. Therefore, the correct answer is a vesicle.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The volcanoes of the US Pacific Northwest are active examples of ____________.
- A.
Continental rift volcanism
- B.
Island arc volcanism
- C.
Continental arc volcanism
- D.
Continental hot-spot volcanism
Correct Answer
C. Continental arc volcanismExplanation
The US Pacific Northwest is home to a chain of active volcanoes known as the Cascade Volcanic Arc. These volcanoes are formed as a result of subduction, where the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate is being pushed beneath the North American plate. This type of volcanic activity, where an oceanic plate is subducting beneath a continental plate, is known as continental arc volcanism. Therefore, the correct answer is continental arc volcanism.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following is characterized of volcanism in continental rifts?
- A.
Large volumes of mafic magma in the crust
- B.
Possible presence of a super plume
- C.
Eruptions of basalt that cover broad areas
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Volcanism in continental rifts is characterized by large volumes of mafic magma in the crust, the possible presence of a super plume, and eruptions of basalt that cover broad areas. This means that all the options listed in the answer are correct and accurately describe the characteristics of volcanism in continental rifts.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following volcanic settings is NOT likely to produce pillow basalt?
- A.
Island arcs
- B.
Oceanic hot spots
- C.
Mid ocean ridges
- D.
Continental hot spots
Correct Answer
D. Continental hot spotsExplanation
Pillow basalt is formed when lava erupts underwater, causing rapid cooling and solidification into pillow-shaped structures. Island arcs, oceanic hot spots, and mid-ocean ridges are all associated with underwater volcanic activity, making them likely to produce pillow basalt. However, continental hot spots are located on land and are not associated with underwater volcanic activity, making them less likely to produce pillow basalt.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Olivine is the ________ mineral to crystallize out of a melt at depth and the __________ mineral to weather away at the surface
- A.
First/last
- B.
Last/first
- C.
Last/last
- D.
First/first
Correct Answer
D. First/firstExplanation
Olivine is the first mineral to crystallize out of a melt at depth because it has a high melting point and forms early in the cooling process. It is also the first mineral to weather away at the surface because it is relatively unstable and easily weathers in the presence of water and oxygen.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The Andes are active examples of _______________
- A.
Continental rift volcanism
- B.
Island arc volcanism
- C.
Continental arc volcanism
- D.
Continental hot spot volcanism
Correct Answer
C. Continental arc volcanismExplanation
The Andes are an active example of continental arc volcanism. This type of volcanism occurs along subduction zones where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another. As the subducting plate sinks into the mantle, it releases water and other volatile substances, which cause the overlying mantle to melt. This molten material then rises to the surface, forming a volcanic arc. The Andes are a prime example of this process, as the Nazca Plate is subducting beneath the South American Plate, resulting in the formation of a chain of volcanoes along the western edge of South America.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The slow build up and sudden release of stress of faults in earthquakes is described as_______
- A.
Stick-slip behavior
- B.
Fault throw
- C.
Normal faulting
- D.
Reverse faulting
Correct Answer
A. Stick-slip behaviorExplanation
Stick-slip behavior refers to the gradual accumulation of stress along a fault line, followed by a sudden release of energy in the form of an earthquake. This phenomenon occurs when the frictional resistance between two rock masses prevents them from sliding smoothly past each other, causing stress to build up over time. Once the stress exceeds the frictional resistance, the rocks slip suddenly, resulting in an earthquake. This explanation aligns with the concept of slow build-up and sudden release of stress in earthquakes.Rate this question:
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- 19.
"Seismic Waves" refer to
- A.
Episode of ground shaking
- B.
Energy transmitted as a result of an earthquake
- C.
Earthquake activity
- D.
Sudden slip along an existing fault
Correct Answer
B. Energy transmitted as a result of an earthquakeExplanation
Seismic waves refer to the energy transmitted as a result of an earthquake. During an earthquake, the release of energy causes vibrations that travel through the earth in the form of waves. These waves can be detected and measured, providing valuable information about the earthquake's magnitude and location. Seismic waves are responsible for the ground shaking and can cause damage to structures and the environment. Therefore, the correct answer is "energy transmitted as a result of an earthquake."Rate this question:
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- 20.
Reverse faulting is generally associated with crustal
- A.
Extension
- B.
Shortening
- C.
Compression
- D.
Decompression
- E.
Both b and c
Correct Answer
E. Both b and cExplanation
Reverse faulting is generally associated with crustal shortening and compression. In reverse faulting, the hanging wall moves upward and over the footwall, causing the crust to shorten and compress. This type of faulting is commonly observed in regions where there is tectonic compression, such as convergent plate boundaries or areas undergoing mountain building processes. Therefore, both options b (shortening) and c (compression) are correct explanations for reverse faulting.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Thrust faulting differ from reverse faults in the _____________.
- A.
Sense of the motion or "throw"; and the hanging wall moves up relative to the footwall in thrust faults, and down relative to the footwall in reverse faults
- B.
Sense of crustal stress
- C.
The angle of the faulting plane with a horizontal plane; thrust faults are steeper than reverse faults
- D.
The angle of the fault plane makes with the horizontal plane; reverse faults are steeper than thrust faults
Correct Answer
D. The angle of the fault plane makes with the horizontal plane; reverse faults are steeper than thrust faultsExplanation
Thrust faulting differs from reverse faults in the angle of the fault plane with the horizontal plane. Reverse faults are steeper than thrust faults.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Why doesn't slip occur on faults all the time?
- A.
Resistance due to decompression
- B.
Resistances due to friction
- C.
Resistance due to viscosity
- D.
Temperature effects
Correct Answer
B. Resistances due to frictionExplanation
Slip doesn't occur on faults all the time because there are resistances due to friction. Friction is the force that opposes the motion of two surfaces in contact, and it acts to prevent slip from occurring on faults. The resistance provided by friction helps to keep the fault locked in place, preventing movement. However, when the stress on the fault exceeds the strength provided by friction, slip can occur and result in an earthquake.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Hydrolysis, oxidation, and chelation are all examples of __________.
- A.
Erosion
- B.
Chemical weathering
- C.
Physical weathering
- D.
Deposition
Correct Answer
B. Chemical weatheringExplanation
Hydrolysis, oxidation, and chelation are all examples of chemical weathering. Chemical weathering refers to the breakdown and alteration of rocks and minerals through chemical reactions. Hydrolysis involves the reaction of minerals with water, oxidation involves the reaction of minerals with oxygen, and chelation involves the formation of complexes between minerals and organic compounds. These processes contribute to the decomposition and disintegration of rocks, leading to their weathering and alteration over time.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of these is not considered a type (or class) of sedimentary rocks?
- A.
Clastic
- B.
Biochemical
- C.
Organic
- D.
Chemical
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
E. None of the aboveExplanation
All of the options listed in the question are actually considered types or classes of sedimentary rocks. Clastic rocks are formed from the accumulation of broken fragments of pre-existing rocks, biochemical rocks are formed from the remains of plants and animals, organic rocks are formed from the accumulation of organic material, and chemical rocks are formed from the precipitation of minerals from solution. Therefore, none of the options listed are not considered a type or class of sedimentary rocks.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following represents the correct ordering, from fine to coarse, for sedimentary detritus?
- A.
Clay, silt, sand, cobble, gravel, boulder
- B.
Clay, sand, silt, boulder, cobble, gravel
- C.
Sand, silt, clay, gravel, boulder, cobble
- D.
Clay, silt, sand, gravel, cobble, boulder
Correct Answer
D. Clay, silt, sand, gravel, cobble, boulderExplanation
The correct ordering, from fine to coarse, for sedimentary detritus is clay, silt, sand, gravel, cobble, boulder.Rate this question:
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- 26.
When sediments first accumulate, they almost always contain ______
- A.
Quartz
- B.
Calcite
- C.
Fossils
- D.
Water
Correct Answer
D. WaterExplanation
When sediments first accumulate, they almost always contain water. This is because sediments are typically deposited in environments such as rivers, lakes, or oceans, where water is present. As sediments settle, they trap and retain water within their pore spaces. This water is known as interstitial water and is an essential component of sedimentary rocks. Over time, as the sediments become compacted and lithified, the water is gradually squeezed out, leading to the formation of solid sedimentary rocks.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which of the following sediments might not contain much water when they form?
- A.
Pyroclastic deposits
- B.
Aeolian deposits
- C.
Siliceous oozes
- D.
A & B
Correct Answer
D. A & BExplanation
Pyroclastic deposits and aeolian deposits are both types of sediments that are formed from volcanic activity and wind erosion, respectively. These sediments are typically dry in nature and do not contain much water when they form. Therefore, the correct answer is A & B.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Diagenisis is the process that converts unconsolidated sediments to
- A.
Rocks
- B.
Schists
- C.
Melts
- D.
Ore deposits
Correct Answer
A. RocksExplanation
Diagenesis is the process by which loose sediments are transformed into rocks. During diagenesis, the sediments undergo physical and chemical changes, such as compaction and cementation, which result in the formation of solid rock. This process typically occurs over a long period of time and under the influence of pressure, temperature, and chemical reactions. Therefore, the correct answer is rocks.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The protolith is the rock that
- A.
Formed when the earth was cooled
- B.
Was metamorphosed to make the present rock
- C.
Formed when diagenisis was completed
- D.
That was deposited by wind
Correct Answer
B. Was metamorphosed to make the present rockExplanation
The correct answer is "was metamorphosed to make the present rock." This is because the term "protolith" refers to the original rock that undergoes metamorphism to form the present rock. It implies that the rock has undergone changes in its mineralogy, texture, or composition due to heat, pressure, or chemical reactions. The other options mentioned in the question, such as the rock formed when the earth was cooled or deposited by wind, do not accurately describe the concept of protolith.Rate this question:
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- 30.
If we could identify the protolith of a metamorphic rock, we could
- A.
Determine the metamorphic grade
- B.
Determine the age of the rock
- C.
Learn something about pre-metamorphic process
- D.
Determine how deeply it has been buried
Correct Answer
C. Learn something about pre-metamorphic processExplanation
If we could identify the protolith of a metamorphic rock, we could learn something about the pre-metamorphic process. This is because the protolith is the original rock from which the metamorphic rock formed. By studying the characteristics of the protolith, such as its mineral composition and texture, we can gain insights into the conditions and processes that occurred before metamorphism took place. This information can help us understand the geological history of the rock and the environmental conditions under which it formed.Rate this question:
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- 31.
When a limestone is metamorphosed a ___________ is produced
- A.
Slate
- B.
Gneiss
- C.
Amphibolite
- D.
Marble
Correct Answer
D. MarbleExplanation
When limestone undergoes metamorphism, it is transformed into marble. This is because the intense heat and pressure during metamorphism cause the minerals in the limestone to recrystallize and form a new rock with a distinct crystalline structure. Marble is a metamorphic rock that is known for its beautiful appearance and is often used in sculptures and building materials.Rate this question:
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- 32.
A schist is formed at _____________temperature than a slate
- A.
Higher
- B.
Lower
- C.
The same
Correct Answer
A. HigherExplanation
A schist is formed at a higher temperature than a slate because schist is a metamorphic rock that undergoes more intense heat and pressure during its formation compared to slate. The higher temperature allows for the recrystallization of minerals present in the rock, resulting in the development of distinct foliation and a coarser texture. In contrast, slate forms at lower temperatures and has a finer texture due to less intense metamorphic conditions.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following metamorphic rocks would tell you the most about metamorphic conditions?
- A.
A marble
- B.
A quratzite
- C.
A slate
- D.
The same information
Correct Answer
C. A slateExplanation
A slate would tell you the most about metamorphic conditions because it is a low-grade metamorphic rock formed from the regional metamorphism of shale or mudstone. The formation of slate requires specific temperature and pressure conditions, indicating the intensity and duration of the metamorphic process. Additionally, slate exhibits foliation, which is a characteristic feature of metamorphic rocks formed under directed pressure. Therefore, studying a slate can provide valuable information about the metamorphic conditions, such as the degree of metamorphism and the tectonic forces involved.Rate this question:
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Dec 13, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 25, 2010Quiz Created by
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