Plate Tectonics And Earthquakes Test

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Plate Tectonics Quizzes & Trivia

A 100-point test to determine your understanding of Plate Tectonics and Earthquakes. Answer all questions clearly and completely, and show your work for partial credit. Good Luck!


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Support for Wegener's hypothesis of continental drif includes evidence of changes in 

    • A.

      Climatic patterns

    • B.

      Panthalassa

    • C.

      Terranes

    • D.

      Subduction

    Correct Answer
    A. Climatic patterns
    Explanation
    Support for Wegener's hypothesis of continental drift includes evidence of changes in climatic patterns. This is because if the continents were once connected and have since drifted apart, it would explain why fossils of tropical plants and animals are found in regions that now have cold climates, such as Antarctica. Similarly, evidence of glacial deposits in regions that are currently warm and tropical also supports this hypothesis. These changes in climatic patterns can be explained by the movement of the continents over time.

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  • 2. 

    New ocean floor is constantly being produced through the process known as

    • A.

      Subduction

    • B.

      Continental drift

    • C.

      Sea-floor spreading

    • D.

      Terranes

    Correct Answer
    C. Sea-floor spreading
    Explanation
    Sea-floor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and then spreads outwards. As the crust moves away from the ridge, it creates a gap that gets filled with molten material from the mantle, which solidifies to form new oceanic crust. This process is responsible for the continuous creation of new ocean floor and the widening of the ocean basins. Subduction, continental drift, and terranes are not processes that involve the production of new ocean floor.

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  • 3. 

    An underwater mountain chain that formed by sea-floor spreading is called a 

    • A.

      Divergent boundary

    • B.

      Subduction zone

    • C.

      Mid-ocean ridge

    • D.

      Convergent boundary

    Correct Answer
    C. Mid-ocean ridge
    Explanation
    A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain chain that is formed through sea-floor spreading. Sea-floor spreading occurs when two tectonic plates move apart, causing magma to rise from the mantle and create new crust. As the new crust cools and solidifies, it forms a continuous mountain range along the divergent boundary. These mid-ocean ridges are characterized by volcanic activity and the presence of rift valleys.

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  • 4. 

    Scientists think that the upwelling of mantle material at mid-ocean ridges is caused by the motion of tectonic plates and comes from 

    • A.

      The lithosphere

    • B.

      Terranes

    • C.

      The asthenosphere

    • D.

      Rift valleys

    Correct Answer
    C. The asthenosphere
    Explanation
    The upwelling of mantle material at mid-ocean ridges is believed to be caused by the motion of tectonic plates. This material originates from the asthenosphere, which is a layer of the Earth's mantle located beneath the lithosphere. The asthenosphere is a partially molten and ductile region that allows for the movement of tectonic plates. As the plates separate at mid-ocean ridges, the asthenosphere rises and fills the gap, resulting in the upwelling of mantle material. This process is a key factor in the formation of new oceanic crust.

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  • 5. 

    The layer of plastic rock that underlies the tectonic plates is the 

    • A.

      Lithosphere

    • B.

      Asthenosphere

    • C.

      Oceanic crust

    • D.

      Terrane

    Correct Answer
    B. Asthenosphere
    Explanation
    The asthenosphere is the correct answer because it is the layer of plastic rock that underlies the tectonic plates. It is located beneath the lithosphere and is characterized by its semi-fluid and partially molten state. This layer is responsible for the movement and shifting of the tectonic plates, as it allows them to glide and move over the more rigid lithosphere. The asthenosphere plays a crucial role in plate tectonics and the geological processes that shape the Earth's surface.

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  • 6. 

    The region along tectonic plate boundaries where one plate moves beneath another is called a 

    • A.

      Rift valley

    • B.

      Transform boundary

    • C.

      Subduction zone

    • D.

      Convergent boundary

    Correct Answer
    C. Subduction zone
    Explanation
    A subduction zone is the region along tectonic plate boundaries where one plate moves beneath another. This process occurs when two plates collide, and the denser plate sinks into the mantle, creating a deep trench. This is a common occurrence in areas where oceanic plates converge with continental plates, leading to the formation of volcanic arcs and earthquakes.

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  • 7. 

    Two plates grind past each other at a

    • A.

      Transform boundary

    • B.

      Convergent boundary

    • C.

      Subduction zone

    • D.

      Divergent boundary

    Correct Answer
    A. Transform boundary
    Explanation
    Two plates grind past each other at a transform boundary. This type of boundary is characterized by horizontal movement, where the plates slide past each other in opposite directions. Transform boundaries are often associated with earthquakes, as the friction between the plates causes them to become locked and then suddenly release, resulting in seismic activity. This type of boundary does not involve the creation or destruction of crust, unlike convergent and divergent boundaries.

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  • 8. 

    Convection occurs because heated materials becomes 

    • A.

      Less dense and rises

    • B.

      Denser and rises

    • C.

      Denser and sinks

    • D.

      Less dense and sinks

    Correct Answer
    A. Less dense and rises
    Explanation
    When materials are heated, their molecules gain energy and move more rapidly, causing them to spread out and occupy a larger volume. This increase in volume leads to a decrease in density, as the same amount of mass is now spread over a larger area. As a result, the less dense heated material rises, displacing the denser surrounding material and creating convection currents. Therefore, the correct answer is "less dense and rises".

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  • 9. 

    When the weight of an area of Earth's crust increases, the lithosphere 

    • A.

      Sinks

    • B.

      Melts

    • C.

      Rises

    • D.

      Collides

    Correct Answer
    A. Sinks
    Explanation
    When the weight of an area of Earth's crust increases, it exerts more pressure on the underlying lithosphere. This increased pressure causes the lithosphere to sink or subside. The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. As the weight increases, the lithosphere gradually moves downward to accommodate the added load. This sinking of the lithosphere is a natural response to the increased weight and helps to maintain equilibrium in the Earth's crust.

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  • 10. 

    The force per unit area that changes the shape and volume of rock is 

    • A.

      Footwall

    • B.

      Isostasy

    • C.

      Rising

    • D.

      Stress

    Correct Answer
    D. Stress
    Explanation
    Stress is the force per unit area that causes a change in the shape and volume of rock. It can be caused by tectonic forces, such as compression, tension, or shear, and can result in the deformation or fracturing of rock. Stress plays a crucial role in the formation of geological features, such as mountains, faults, and folds.

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  • 11. 

    Shear stress

    • A.

      Bends, twists, or breaks rock

    • B.

      Causes isostasy

    • C.

      Causes rocks to melt

    • D.

      Causes rock to expand

    Correct Answer
    A. Bends, twists, or breaks rock
    Explanation
    Shear stress refers to the force applied parallel to a surface, causing the material to deform. In the context of rock, shear stress can lead to bending, twisting, or even breaking of the rock. This is because the stress causes the rock to undergo a change in shape, resulting in deformation. Therefore, the correct answer is that shear stress bends, twists, or breaks rock.

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  • 12. 

    When stress is applied under conditions of high pressure and high temperature, rock is more likely to

    • A.

      Fracture

    • B.

      Sink

    • C.

      Fault

    • D.

      Fold

    Correct Answer
    D. Fold
    Explanation
    When stress is applied under conditions of high pressure and high temperature, rock is more likely to fold. This is because high pressure and temperature cause the rock to become more ductile and malleable, allowing it to deform and bend rather than fracture or sink. Folding occurs when the rock layers are subjected to compressive forces, causing them to bend and buckle, resulting in folds in the rock structure.

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  • 13. 

    Folds in which both limbs remain horizontal are called 

    • A.

      Monoclines

    • B.

      Synclines

    • C.

      Fractures

    • D.

      Anticlines

    Correct Answer
    A. Monoclines
    Explanation
    Monoclines are folds in which both limbs remain horizontal. This means that the layers of rock are folded in a way that one side remains flat or horizontal while the other side is tilted. This type of fold is commonly found in areas where there has been compression or bending of the Earth's crust. Synclines, on the other hand, are folds in which the limbs dip towards each other, fractures are breaks in the rock, and anticlines are folds in which the limbs dip away from each other.

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  • 14. 

    When a fault is not vertical, the rock above the fault plane makes up the 

    • A.

      Tension

    • B.

      Footwall

    • C.

      Hanging wall

    • D.

      Compression

    Correct Answer
    C. Hanging wall
    Explanation
    In a fault, the hanging wall refers to the block of rock that is located above the fault plane. When a fault is not vertical, meaning it is inclined or at an angle, the rock above the fault plane is still considered the hanging wall. This is because the hanging wall is always the block of rock that is positioned above the fault plane, regardless of the orientation of the fault.

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  • 15. 

    A fault in which the rock on either side of the fault plane moves horizontally in the nearly opposite directions is called a 

    • A.

      Normal fault

    • B.

      Reverse fault

    • C.

      Strike-slip fault

    • D.

      Thrust fault.

    Correct Answer
    C. Strike-slip fault
    Explanation
    A strike-slip fault is a type of fault in which the rocks on either side of the fault plane move horizontally in nearly opposite directions. In this type of fault, the movement is primarily parallel to the strike (horizontal direction) of the fault plane. This type of fault is commonly associated with transform boundaries, where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

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  • 16. 

    The largest mountain systems are part of still larger systems called

    • A.

      Continental margins

    • B.

      Ranges

    • C.

      Belts

    • D.

      Synclines

    Correct Answer
    C. Belts
    Explanation
    The correct answer is belts. Belts refer to large, elongated regions where mountain ranges are formed due to tectonic activity. These belts are often associated with convergent plate boundaries, where two plates collide or come together. The collision and compression of the plates result in the formation of mountain ranges. Examples of mountain belts include the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Alps. Therefore, belts are the correct term used to describe the largest mountain systems that are part of even larger tectonic systems.

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  • 17. 

    Large areas of flat-topped rock high above the surrounding landscape are 

    • A.

      Grabens

    • B.

      Footwalls

    • C.

      Hanging walls

    • D.

      Plateaus

    Correct Answer
    D. Plateaus
    Explanation
    Large areas of flat-topped rock high above the surrounding landscape are plateaus. Plateaus are elevated flat areas of land that have been uplifted or formed by volcanic activity. They are characterized by steep sides and a relatively flat or gently sloping top. The flat surface of plateaus is often the result of erosion and weathering over millions of years. These geological formations can be found in various parts of the world and are often associated with mountain ranges or tectonic activity.

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  • 18. 

    Vibrations in the Earth that are caused by a sudden movement of rock are called

    • A.

      Epicenters

    • B.

      Earthquakes

    • C.

      Faults

    • D.

      Tsunamis

    Correct Answer
    B. Earthquakes
    Explanation
    Vibrations in the Earth caused by a sudden movement of rock are referred to as earthquakes. During an earthquake, energy is released and travels in the form of seismic waves, causing the ground to shake. This sudden movement occurs along fault lines, which are fractures in the Earth's crust where rocks have shifted. Earthquakes can vary in magnitude and can have devastating effects on the surrounding areas, including damage to buildings, infrastructure, and even loss of life. Tsunamis, on the other hand, are large ocean waves typically triggered by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

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  • 19. 

    In the process of elastic rebound, as a rock becomes stressed, it first

    • A.

      Deforms

    • B.

      Melts

    • C.

      Breaks

    • D.

      Shrinks

    Correct Answer
    A. Deforms
    Explanation
    In the process of elastic rebound, when a rock is subjected to stress, it deforms. This means that the rock changes its shape or size in response to the applied stress. Deformation occurs when the rock is pushed or pulled, causing it to bend, stretch, or compress. This deformation is temporary and reversible, as the rock will return to its original shape once the stress is released. Therefore, deforming is the correct answer as it describes the initial response of the rock to stress in the elastic rebound process.

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  • 20. 

    Earthquakes that cause severe damage are likely to have what characteristic?

    • A.

      A deep focus

    • B.

      An intermediate focus

    • C.

      A shallow focus

    • D.

      A deep epicenter

    Correct Answer
    C. A shallow focus
    Explanation
    Earthquakes that cause severe damage are likely to have a shallow focus. This means that the earthquake originates closer to the Earth's surface rather than deep within. Shallow-focus earthquakes tend to release more energy near the surface, resulting in stronger shaking and greater potential for damage to buildings and infrastructure. In contrast, earthquakes with a deep focus originate deeper within the Earth and their energy has more distance to travel, resulting in less severe shaking at the surface.

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  • 21. 

    Most earthquakes occur 

    • A.

      In mountains

    • B.

      Along major rivers

    • C.

      At plate boundaries

    • D.

      In the middle of tectonic plates

    Correct Answer
    C. At plate boundaries
    Explanation
    Earthquakes occur at plate boundaries because these are the areas where tectonic plates interact with each other. The Earth's crust is divided into several large plates that are constantly moving and colliding with each other. When these plates interact, they can create stress and pressure along their boundaries. Eventually, this stress becomes too great and is released in the form of an earthquake. Therefore, the majority of earthquakes occur at plate boundaries where the movement and interaction of tectonic plates are most active.

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  • 22. 

    P waves travel 

    • A.

      Only through solids

    • B.

      Only through liquids and gases

    • C.

      Through solids, liquids, and gases

    • D.

      Only through liquids

    Correct Answer
    C. Through solids, liquids, and gases
    Explanation
    P waves, also known as primary waves or pressure waves, are a type of seismic wave that travels through the Earth's interior. These waves can propagate through solids, liquids, and gases, making them the fastest seismic waves. They cause particles in the material they pass through to move in a back-and-forth motion parallel to the direction of wave propagation. This ability to travel through different states of matter allows P waves to provide valuable information about the Earth's interior during seismic events such as earthquakes.

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  • 23. 

    S waves cannot pass through

    • A.

      Solids

    • B.

      The mantle

    • C.

      Earth's outer core

    • D.

      The asthenosphere

    Correct Answer
    C. Earth's outer core
    Explanation
    S waves cannot pass through Earth's outer core because it is a liquid. S waves, also known as shear waves, can only travel through solid materials. The outer core of the Earth is composed of molten iron and nickel, which makes it unable to transmit these types of seismic waves. This is one of the key pieces of evidence that helped scientists determine the existence of a liquid outer core and a solid inner core within the Earth's structure.

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  • 24. 

    Most injuries during earthquakes are caused by

    • A.

      The collapse of buildings

    • B.

      Cracks in Earth's surface

    • C.

      The vibration of S waves

    • D.

      The vibration of P waves

    Correct Answer
    A. The collapse of buildings
    Explanation
    During an earthquake, the collapse of buildings is the primary cause of most injuries. When the ground shakes, buildings can become unstable and may crumble, leading to falling debris and trapping people inside. The force and impact of a collapsing structure can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that buildings are designed and constructed to withstand seismic activity, as well as to have proper safety measures in place to minimize the risk of collapse during earthquakes.

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  • 25. 

    Which of the following is NOT a method used to forecast earthquake risks?

    • A.

      Identifying seismic gaps

    • B.

      Determining moment magnitude

    • C.

      Recording foreshocks

    • D.

      Detecting changes in the rock

    Correct Answer
    B. Determining moment magnitude
    Explanation
    Determining moment magnitude is not a method used to forecast earthquake risks. Moment magnitude is a measure of the size of an earthquake based on the total energy released. It is used to characterize earthquakes that have already occurred, rather than predict future earthquakes. Forecasting earthquake risks typically involves identifying seismic gaps, which are areas along fault lines that have not experienced recent earthquakes and may be more prone to future seismic activity. It also involves recording foreshocks, which are smaller earthquakes that precede a larger earthquake, and detecting changes in the rock, such as increased stress or deformation, which may indicate an increased risk of an earthquake.

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  • 26. 

    __________ - the hypothesis that states that the continents once formed a single landmass, broke up, and drifted to their present locations.

    Correct Answer
    continental drift
    Explanation
    The explanation for the given correct answer, "continental drift," is that it refers to the hypothesis that suggests that the continents were once connected as a single landmass, known as Pangaea, but over time, they broke apart and moved to their current positions on Earth's surface. This theory was proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century and has been supported by various geological and paleontological evidence, such as the matching shapes of coastlines, similarities in rock formations, and the distribution of fossils across different continents. Continental drift helps explain the geological features and patterns observed on Earth today.

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  • 27. 

    __________ - the study of the alignment of magnetic materials in rock, specifically as it relates to the reversal of Earth's magnetic poles; also the magnetic properties that rock acquires during formation.

    Correct Answer
    paleomagnetism
    Explanation
    Paleomagnetism refers to the study of the alignment of magnetic materials in rock, specifically in relation to the reversal of Earth's magnetic poles. It also encompasses the investigation of the magnetic properties that rock acquires during its formation. This field of study provides insights into the Earth's past magnetic field and helps in understanding the geological history of the planet.

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  • 28. 

    _________- the theory that explains how large pieces of the lithosphere, called plates, move and change shape.

    Correct Answer
    plate tectonics
    tectonic forces
    tectonic plates
    Explanation
    Plate tectonics is the correct answer for this question. Plate tectonics is the theory that explains how large pieces of the lithosphere, called plates, move and change shape. Tectonic forces and tectonic plates are related concepts that are part of the plate tectonics theory. Tectonic forces refer to the forces that cause the movement and deformation of the plates, while tectonic plates are the large pieces of the lithosphere that make up the Earth's surface. Therefore, all three options are correct explanations for the theory of how plates move and change shape.

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  • 29. 

    __________- the solid, outer layer of Earth that consists of the crust and the rigid upper part of the mantle.

    Correct Answer
    lithosphere
    Explanation
    The lithosphere refers to the solid, outer layer of the Earth, which includes both the crust and the rigid upper part of the mantle. It is the portion of the Earth that is broken into tectonic plates and is responsible for the movement and interaction of these plates. The lithosphere is characterized by its solid and rigid nature, distinguishing it from the underlying asthenosphere, which is a more plastic and flowing layer of the mantle.

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  • 30. 

    ___________- the boundary between tectonic plates that are moving away from each other

    Correct Answer
    divergent boundary
    divergent
    Explanation
    A divergent boundary refers to the boundary between tectonic plates that are moving away from each other. At these boundaries, new crust is formed as magma rises up from the mantle and solidifies, creating new oceanic lithosphere. This process leads to the formation of features such as mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys. The movement of the plates away from each other allows for the release of tension and can result in volcanic activity and earthquakes.

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  • 31. 

    ____________- the boundary between tectonic plates that are colliding

    Correct Answer
    convergent boundary
    convergent
    Explanation
    A convergent boundary refers to the boundary between tectonic plates that are colliding. This type of boundary occurs when two plates move towards each other, resulting in the compression and collision of the Earth's crust. As a result of this collision, various geological features such as mountains, volcanic activity, and earthquakes can occur. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is convergent boundary.

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  • 32. 

    ___________- the boundary between tectonic plates that are sliding past each other horizontally

    Correct Answer
    transform boundary
    transform
    Explanation
    A transform boundary is the correct answer because it refers to the boundary between tectonic plates that are sliding past each other horizontally. This type of boundary is characterized by intense shearing forces, which cause rocks to break and slip along the fault line. Transform boundaries are responsible for creating earthquakes and can be found along prominent fault lines such as the San Andreas Fault in California.

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  • 33. 

    _____________- as the cooling rock sinks, the asthenosphere below it exerts force on the rest of the plate.

    Correct Answer
    ridge push
    Explanation
    As the cooling rock sinks, the asthenosphere below it exerts force on the rest of the plate. This force is known as ridge push. Ridge push is a mechanism that contributes to the movement of tectonic plates. It occurs at mid-ocean ridges where new crust is formed through volcanic activity. As the newly formed crust cools and becomes denser, it sinks, creating a downward force. This force is transmitted to the rest of the plate, pushing it away from the ridge. Ridge push is one of the driving forces behind plate tectonics and the movement of continents.

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  • 34. 

    ____________- At divergent boundaries, the leading edge of the plate that sinks and pulls the rest of the plate along behind it.

    Correct Answer
    slab pull
    Explanation
    At divergent boundaries, the process of slab pull occurs. This refers to the leading edge of the plate sinking into the mantle, creating a downward force that pulls the rest of the plate behind it. This force is responsible for the movement of tectonic plates and the formation of new crust at divergent boundaries. Slab pull is an important mechanism in plate tectonics and contributes to the overall dynamics of Earth's lithosphere.

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  • 35. 

    _______________- the process by which Earth's crust breaks apart; can occur within continental crust or oceanic crust

    Correct Answer
    rifting
    sea-floor spreading
    Explanation
    Rifting refers to the process of Earth's crust breaking apart, which can occur within both continental and oceanic crust. This involves the separation of tectonic plates, leading to the formation of rift valleys and the creation of new crust. On the other hand, sea-floor spreading is a specific type of rifting that occurs at mid-ocean ridges, where new oceanic crust is formed through the upwelling of magma and the spreading of the sea floor. Therefore, both rifting and sea-floor spreading are correct answers as they describe different aspects of the process of crustal separation.

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  • 36. 

    ______________- a piece of lithosphere that has a unique geologic history and that may be part of a larger piece of lithosphere, such as a continent.

    Correct Answer
    terrane
    Explanation
    A terrane refers to a distinct piece of lithosphere that has its own geological history and can be considered as a separate entity from the surrounding lithosphere, like a continent. Terranes are often formed through tectonic processes such as the collision and accretion of different land masses. They can have different rock types, ages, and geological structures compared to the surrounding lithosphere. The concept of terranes helps geologists understand the complex history and evolution of Earth's crust.

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  • 37. 

    _____________- the process by which supercontinents form and break apart over millions of years

    Correct Answer
    supercontinent cycle
    Explanation
    The term "supercontinent cycle" refers to the process of the formation and breakup of supercontinents over a span of millions of years. This cycle involves the movement and collision of tectonic plates, leading to the amalgamation of landmasses into a supercontinent, and eventually their fragmentation into smaller continents. This continuous cycle has occurred multiple times in Earth's history, with examples including Pangaea and Rodinia.

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  • 38. 

    ____________- the supercontinent that formed 300 million years ago and that began to break up beginning 250 million years ago

    Correct Answer
    Pangaea
    Pangea
    Pangeae
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Pangaea, Pangea, Pangeae. Pangaea is the correct spelling of the supercontinent that formed 300 million years ago and began to break up 250 million years ago. Pangea and Pangeae are alternative spellings of the same word.

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  • 39. 

    ___________- the single, large ocean that covered Earth's surface during the time the supercontinent Pangaea existed.

    Correct Answer
    panthalassa
    panthalasa
    Panthalassa
    Explanation
    During the time when the supercontinent Pangaea existed, there was a single, large ocean that covered Earth's surface called panthalassa. The variations in capitalization (panthalassa, panthalasa, Panthalassa) are likely due to typographical errors or inconsistencies.

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  • 40. 

    ______________- a condition of gravitational and buoyant equilibrium between Earth's lithosphere and asthenosphere

    Correct Answer
    isostasy
    isotacy
    Isostasy
    Explanation
    Isostasy is the correct answer. Isostasy refers to the state of gravitational and buoyant equilibrium between Earth's lithosphere (the rigid outer layer) and asthenosphere (the partially molten layer below). This equilibrium is maintained as the lithosphere "floats" on the denser asthenosphere. The term "isotacy" is not a recognized term in geology, so it is not the correct answer. "Isostasy" is the correct spelling and capitalization for the concept.

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  • 41. 

    ____________- any change in a rock's shape or volume caused by stress

    Correct Answer
    strain
    stain
    Strain
    Explanation
    Strain is the correct answer because it refers to any change in a rock's shape or volume caused by stress. This term is commonly used in geology to describe the deformation of rocks under pressure or tension. Stain and Strain are incorrect answers as they do not accurately describe this concept.

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  • 42. 

    __________ - a form of ductile strain in which rock layers bend, usually as a result of compression

    Correct Answer
    fold
    Fold
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "fold". A fold is a form of ductile strain in which rock layers bend, typically due to compression. This bending occurs over a large scale and can result in the formation of folds in the Earth's crust. Folds can vary in size and shape, ranging from gentle waves to tight, complex structures. They are commonly found in areas where tectonic forces have caused compression, such as mountain ranges. The term "fold" can be written in both lowercase and uppercase, hence "fold" and "Fold" are both correct answers.

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  • 43. 

    _____________- a break in a body of rock along which one blick slides relative to another; a form of brittle strain

    Correct Answer
    fault
    Fault
    Explanation
    A fault is a break in a body of rock where one block slides relative to another. It is a form of brittle strain. The correct answer is fault because it accurately describes the given definition.

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  • 44. 

    ____________- a series of mountains that are closely related in orientation, age, and mode of formation

    Correct Answer
    mountain range
    mountain chain
    mountain belt
    Explanation
    A mountain range, mountain chain, and mountain belt all refer to a series of mountains that share similar characteristics such as orientation, age, and how they were formed. These terms are used interchangeably to describe a geographical feature consisting of multiple mountains that are closely related in these aspects.

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  • 45. 

    ____________- a mountain that forms when rock layers are squeezed together and uplifted. 

    Correct Answer
    folded mountain
    folded
    Explanation
    A folded mountain is formed when rock layers are compressed and pushed upwards. This compression causes the rocks to fold and buckle, creating a mountain range with ridges and valleys. The term "folded" refers to the bending and deformation of the rock layers due to tectonic forces. This process can occur over millions of years and is often associated with convergent plate boundaries where two tectonic plates collide. Folded mountains are characterized by their folded and contorted appearance, with layers of different types of rock visible in the mountain's structure.

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  • 46. 

    ___________ - a mountain that forms where faults break Earth's crust into large blocks and some blocks drop down relative to other blocks

    Correct Answer
    fault-block mountain
    fault mountain
    Explanation
    A fault-block mountain is formed when the Earth's crust is broken along faults, causing large blocks of crust to drop down relative to other blocks. This creates a mountain with steep, rugged slopes and sharp peaks. The terms "fault-block mountain" and "fault mountain" both refer to this type of mountain formation.

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  • 47. 

    ___________ - a circular or eliptical almost symmetrical elevation or structure in which the stratified rock slopes downward gently from the central point of folding.

    Correct Answer
    dome mountain
    sphere mountain
    circular mountain
    eliptical mountain
    Explanation
    A dome mountain is a circular or elliptical almost symmetrical elevation or structure in which the stratified rock slopes downward gently from the central point of folding. This means that the correct answer includes all options: dome mountain, sphere mountain, circular mountain, and elliptical mountain.

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  • 48. 

    ______________- the point on Earth's surface directly above an earthquake's starting point, or focus

    Correct Answer
    epicenter
    Explanation
    The term "epicenter" refers to the point on Earth's surface directly above the starting point or focus of an earthquake. It is the location where the seismic waves generated by the earthquake reach the surface and cause the most damage.

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  • 49. 

    ____________ - in geology, a seismic wave that travels through the body of a medium.

    Correct Answer
    body wave
    Explanation
    A body wave is a type of seismic wave that travels through the interior of the Earth. Unlike surface waves, which only travel along the Earth's surface, body waves can penetrate through the Earth's crust and mantle. These waves are generated by earthquakes and can be classified into two types: P-waves and S-waves. P-waves, or primary waves, are the fastest seismic waves and can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. S-waves, or secondary waves, are slower and can only travel through solids. Therefore, a body wave is a seismic wave that travels through the body of a medium, such as the Earth.

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  • 50. 

    ______________ - in geology, a seismic wave that travels along the surface of a medium and that has a sronger effect near the surface of the medium than it has on the interior.

    Correct Answer
    surface wave
    Explanation
    A surface wave in geology is a type of seismic wave that travels along the surface of a medium. Unlike other seismic waves, surface waves have a stronger effect near the surface of the medium compared to their impact on the interior. These waves can cause significant damage and are responsible for the destruction caused by earthquakes.

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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Dec 18, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Kryptocorp
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