Geoscience Fundamentals: Weathering, Soil, and Water Systems Quiz

Chemical weathering is a geological process that involves the decomposition of rocks through chemical reactions, leading to their breakdown over time.

Oxidation refers to the chemical reaction in which an element, such as iron, combines with oxygen to form rust. The other options do not accurately describe oxidation.

Differential weathering is the process by which softer, less weathering resistant rocks erode at a faster rate compared to harder, more weathered rocks, resulting in uneven surfaces and unique rock formations.

Bedrock refers to the solid rock layer that is found beneath the soil. It provides the foundation for the soil and is crucial for the stability of the ground.

Topsoil refers to the uppermost layer of soil which is crucial for plant growth as it contains the highest concentration of organic matter and nutrients.

Humus refers to the organic material found in soil that is crucial for plant growth and is formed from decomposed plant matter.

Cover crops are specifically planted to benefit the soil and prevent erosion during periods when the main cash crop is not growing.

Ground water specifically refers to water that is located below the Earth's surface in pore spaces within regolith and bedrock. It is a vital source of freshwater for many communities around the world.

Frost action is a common physical weathering process where water freezes and thaws, causing stress on rocks and soil leading to their breakdown.

Ice wedging is a natural process that occurs in cold climates where water freezes and expands in rock cracks, gradually breaking apart the rock structure.

Climate refers to the long-term patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in a certain area, while weather describes the short-term atmospheric conditions. Climate is determined by factors like latitude, altitude, proximity to water bodies, and prevailing wind patterns.

Erosion involves the movement of soil and sediments, not their creation or solidification. The correct answer highlights the main mechanisms by which erosion occurs.

Crop rotation is a farming practice that involves growing different crops in the same area in sequential seasons to improve soil health and crop yield. By rotating crops, farmers can prevent the depletion of specific nutrients in the soil, reduce the buildup of pests and diseases, and maintain soil structure and fertility.

Abrasion specifically refers to the grinding and wearing away of rock surfaces through mechanical action, not volcanic eruption, sedimentary rock formation, or chemical weathering.

Parent rock refers to the original rock formation that is broken down over time to create soil, making it the source of nutrients for plants.

Infiltration refers to the ability of water to penetrate and move through soil, rather than the removal of impurities, rate of evaporation, or formation of reservoirs.

A soil horizon refers to a layer of soil parallel to the surface with distinct characteristics formed by soil processes.

A soil profile refers to a vertical section of soil that depicts the different layers (horizons) and the parent material contributing to the soil composition. It provides information about the soil's structure and properties.

Soil conservation encompasses practices that help maintain the fertility of soil and prevent soil erosion, ensuring sustainable agriculture and a healthy environment for future generations.

Root pry is the natural process of plant roots growing and causing rocks to spread apart, often seen in rocky terrains or landscapes.

Land degradation refers to the reduction or loss of biological or economic productivity of the land. Desertification specifically refers to the process where fertile land turns into desert as a result of various factors such as climate change and human activities.

Contour plowing is a farming practice where rows are plowed along the contour of the land to prevent soil erosion. By plowing in this manner, the rows act as a series of dams that catch water and prevent it from running off the field like rivers, allowing for better soil conservation.

No till farming is a sustainable agricultural method that reduces soil erosion by leaving the previous crop's residue on the field to act as a protective cover from rain. This practice helps to improve soil health and reduce the need for excessive tilling, minimizing disturbances to the ecosystem.

Weathering specifically refers to the short-term state of the atmosphere, while the other options describe geological processes, chemical breakdown, and climate change over longer durations.

Acid precipitation refers to any form of precipitation that has a higher acidity level than normal, usually caused by air pollutants reacting with water in the atmosphere. The correct answer describes the common types of acid precipitation, such as rain, sleet, or snow with high acid concentrations.

Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically due to a combination of natural factors like drought and human activities like deforestation and overgrazing. It is a serious environmental issue with negative impacts on agriculture, water quality, and biodiversity.