Earth Science Exam #2 The Ocean

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Which one of the following is NOT part of the continental margin?
- A) continental slope
- B) continental rise
- C) continental trench
- D) continental shelf

About This Quiz

Test on Ocean Sediments, Ocean Floor, El Nino and La Nina

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2.

The surface waters in regions where evaporation rates are high, such as the Red Sea, have higher than average salinities
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

In regions with high evaporation rates, such as the Red Sea, the water evaporates quickly, leaving behind the dissolved salts and minerals, which increases the salinity of the remaining surface water. This is why the surface waters in these regions have higher than average salinities.

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3.

The ________ Ocean is largest
- A) Indian
- B) Arctic
- C) Atlantic
- D) Pacific
Correct Answer

A. D) Pacific

Explanation

The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth. It covers a vast area and has the greatest average depth compared to other oceans. It is also home to the Mariana Trench, the deepest known point in the world. The Pacific Ocean borders many countries and is a major route for international trade and transportation. Its size and importance make it the correct answer in this question.

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4.

Sand, silt, and clays deposited on the ocean floor are described as terrigenous sediments
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Terrigenous sediments are formed from weathered rocks on land that are transported to the ocean by rivers, wind, or glaciers. These sediments can include sand, silt, and clay particles. Therefore, it is correct to say that sand, silt, and clays deposited on the ocean floor are described as terrigenous sediments.

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5.

The oceans cover approximately ________ percent of Earth's surface.
- A) 70
- B) 60
- C) 50
- D) 40
Correct Answer

A. A) 70

Explanation

The correct answer is A) 70. This means that approximately 70 percent of Earth's surface is covered by oceans. This is a significant percentage, indicating that the majority of the Earth's surface is made up of water bodies. The oceans play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate, supporting diverse ecosystems, and providing resources for human populations.

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6.

Submerged, flat-topped seamounts are known as guyots.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

Guyots are submerged, flat-topped seamounts that were once volcanic islands. Over time, erosion and subsidence caused them to sink beneath the ocean surface. The flat top of a guyot is typically the result of wave action and coral reef growth when the seamount was still above water. Therefore, the statement that submerged, flat-topped seamounts are known as guyots is true.

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7.

"Black smokers" are associated with ________.
- A) oceanic ridges
- B) hot water
- C) mineral-rich waters
- D) all of these
Correct Answer

A. D) all of these

Explanation

"Black smokers" are hydrothermal vents found along oceanic ridges. These vents emit hot water that is rich in minerals. Therefore, the correct answer is D) all of these, as they are associated with oceanic ridges, hot water, and mineral-rich waters.

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8.

An echo sounder operates by measuring the time required for a ________.
- A) sound pulse travels from a ship to the seafloor and back
- B) radar beam to travel from a harbor patrol boat to a fuzz-buster on a speeding yacht
- C) light beam to travel from a satellite at a known altitude to the sea bottom and back
- D) radar beam to travel from a ship to the seafloor and back
Correct Answer

A. A) sound pulse travels from a ship to the seafloor and back

Explanation

An echo sounder operates by measuring the time required for a sound pulse to travel from a ship to the seafloor and back. This is done by emitting a sound pulse into the water and measuring the time it takes for the pulse to bounce off the seafloor and return to the ship. By knowing the speed of sound in water, the echo sounder can then calculate the distance to the seafloor.

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9.

Seamounts ________.
- A) are submarine canyons found near Australia
- B) are volcanoes that form on the ocean floor
- C) are a special type of oceanic trench
- D) form only in the Pacific Ocean basin
Correct Answer

A. B) are volcanoes that form on the ocean floor

Explanation

Seamounts are underwater mountains that form on the ocean floor due to volcanic activity. They are not submarine canyons, oceanic trenches, or limited to the Pacific Ocean basin. The correct answer, option B, accurately describes seamounts as volcanoes that form on the ocean floor.

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10.

The continental rise lies at the bottom of the continental slope.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. True

Explanation

The continental rise is a feature that occurs at the bottom of the continental slope. It is formed by the accumulation of sediment that has been transported down the slope by gravity. As the sediment reaches the base of the slope, it spreads out and forms the continental rise. Therefore, it is true that the continental rise lies at the bottom of the continental slope.

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11.

The ________ marks the transition between the warm surface layer and the deep zone of cold water in the oceans.
- A) pycnocline
- B) halocline
- C) thermocline
- D) salinocline
Correct Answer

A. C) thermocline

Explanation

The thermocline is a layer in the ocean that separates the warm surface layer from the colder deep zone. It is characterized by a rapid decrease in temperature with increasing depth. This transition zone is important because it affects the distribution of heat and nutrients in the ocean, as well as the movement of marine organisms. The pycnocline refers to a layer of water where there is a rapid change in density, the halocline refers to a layer of water where there is a rapid change in salinity, and the salinocline refers to a layer of water where there is a rapid change in salt concentration. None of these options accurately describe the transition between warm and cold water in the ocean.

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12.

Compared to the Southern Hemisphere, a higher percentage of the Northern Hemisphere is water covered.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

The statement is false because a higher percentage of the Southern Hemisphere is water covered compared to the Northern Hemisphere. The Southern Hemisphere has a larger proportion of its surface covered by water due to the presence of large oceans like the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Ocean. In contrast, the Northern Hemisphere has a greater landmass with continents like North America, Europe, and Asia. Therefore, the Southern Hemisphere has a higher percentage of water coverage.

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13.

Which of the following is associated with ocean ridges?
- A) rift zones
- B) mountainous topography
- C) volcanic structures
- D) all of these
Correct Answer

A. D) all of these

Explanation

Ocean ridges are associated with all of the given options. Rift zones are areas where tectonic plates are moving apart, creating a gap that is filled with magma from the mantle, resulting in volcanic activity. This volcanic activity leads to the formation of volcanic structures such as underwater volcanoes and seamounts. The continuous movement of the tectonic plates also creates mountainous topography along the ocean ridges, with underwater mountains and ridges being formed. Therefore, all of the given options are associated with ocean ridges.

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14.

Which one of the following salts is most abundant in seawater?
- A) sodium chloride
- B) sodium bicarbonate
- C) potassium bromide
- D) magnesium chloride
Correct Answer

A. A) sodium chloride

Explanation

Sodium chloride is the most abundant salt in seawater because it is the primary component of saltwater and is present in high concentrations. It is formed when sodium ions from sodium hydroxide react with chloride ions from hydrochloric acid. Sodium chloride is essential for various biological processes and is commonly used for seasoning and preserving food.

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15.

Which of the following is NOT true of deep ocean trenches?
- A) they are long and narrow depressions
- B) they are sites where plates plunge back into the mantle
- C) they may act as sediment traps
- D) they are geologically very stable
Correct Answer

A. D) they are geologically very stable

Explanation

Deep ocean trenches are not geologically very stable. This is because they are located at subduction zones where tectonic plates collide and one plate is forced beneath another, causing intense geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

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16.

Which of the following is not an important control on oceanic sediment accumulation?
- A) degree of preservation
- B) rate of deposition
- C) input from other sediment types
- D) dilution
- E) All of the above factors are important.
Correct Answer

A. E) All of the above factors are important.

Explanation

All of the factors mentioned in options A, B, C, and D are important controls on oceanic sediment accumulation. The degree of preservation determines how well the sediment is preserved over time, the rate of deposition influences the amount of sediment that accumulates, input from other sediment types can affect the composition of the sediment, and dilution can influence the concentration of sediment in the water. Therefore, all of these factors play a role in controlling oceanic sediment accumulation.

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17.

________ manganese nodule
- a. biogenous
- b. terrigenous
- c. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. c. hydrogenous

Explanation

The term "manganese nodule" refers to a type of rock formation that is primarily composed of manganese and other minerals. These nodules are formed through a process called hydrogenous deposition, which occurs when minerals precipitate out of seawater and accumulate on the ocean floor. This process is distinct from biogenous deposition, which involves the accumulation of organic material, and terrigenous deposition, which involves the accumulation of land-derived sediments. Therefore, the correct answer is c. hydrogenous.

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18.

Minerals that crystallize directly from seawater are examples of ________.
- A) hydrogenous sediment
- B) biogenous sediment
- C) terrigenous sediment
- D) both terrigenous and biogenous sediment
Correct Answer

A. A) hydrogenous sediment

Explanation

Minerals that crystallize directly from seawater are known as hydrogenous sediment. These minerals form through the process of precipitation from the seawater itself. This is in contrast to biogenous sediment, which is made up of organic material from living organisms, and terrigenous sediment, which consists of particles eroded from land. Therefore, the correct answer is A) hydrogenous sediment.

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19.

________ calcareous ooze
- A. biogenous
- b. terrigenous
- c. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. A. biogenous

Explanation

Calcareous ooze refers to sediment that is primarily composed of the remains of marine organisms such as shells and skeletal fragments. These organisms produce calcium carbonate, which accumulates on the ocean floor over time. Therefore, the correct answer is "a. biogenous" as it accurately describes the origin of calcareous ooze from biological sources.

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20.

________ abyssal plain clay
- A. biogenous
- b. terrigenous
- C. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. b. terrigenous

Explanation

Terrigenous refers to sediment that is derived from the land and transported to the ocean by rivers, wind, or glaciers. Abyssal plain clay is primarily composed of terrigenous sediment that has settled on the ocean floor over long periods of time. This sediment is typically made up of fine particles, such as clay, that have been weathered and eroded from rocks on land. Therefore, the correct answer is b. terrigenous.

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21.

Which ocean has the greatest average depth?
- A) Indian
- B) Atlantic
- C) Pacific
- D) Arctic
Correct Answer

A. C) Pacific

Explanation

The Pacific Ocean has the greatest average depth compared to the other options. This is because the Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean in the world, covering a vast area and containing the Mariana Trench, which is the deepest part of any ocean. The Indian Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Arctic Ocean have lesser average depths in comparison.

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22.

Concerning the distribution of land and water, which of the following statements is true?
- A) the Southern Hemisphere has much more water surface than the Northern Hemisphere
- B) the Northern Hemisphere has much more water surface than the Southern Hemisphere
- C) the percentage of land and water is about the same in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres
- D) none of the above are true
Correct Answer

A. A) the Southern Hemisphere has much more water surface than the Northern Hemisphere

Explanation

The correct answer is A) the Southern Hemisphere has much more water surface than the Northern Hemisphere. This is because the Southern Hemisphere has a larger proportion of its surface covered by oceans, with the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean being the largest. In contrast, the Northern Hemisphere has a larger proportion of its surface covered by landmasses, including the continents of North America, Europe, and Asia. Therefore, the Southern Hemisphere has a greater amount of water surface compared to the Northern Hemisphere.

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23.

The continental rise is located ________.
- A) at the top of the continental slope
- B) at the top of a mid-ocean ridge
- C) at the seaward edge of a deep ocean trench
- D) between an abyssal plain and continental slope
Correct Answer

A. D) between an abyssal plain and continental slope

Explanation

The continental rise is located between an abyssal plain and a continental slope. The continental slope is the steep slope that connects the continental shelf to the abyssal plain, which is a flat and deep part of the ocean floor. The continental rise is a gentle slope that lies at the base of the continental slope and marks the transition between the continental crust and the oceanic crust. It is composed of sediment that has been transported from the continental shelf and slope by gravity and underwater currents.

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24.

Manganese nodules do not accumulate below 4500 meters depth because the manganese minerals are highly soluble in seawater below that depth.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

Manganese nodules do accumulate below 4500 meters depth because the manganese minerals are not highly soluble in seawater below that depth.

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25.

The crests of mid-oceanic ridges ________.
- A) lie at depths exceeding 6 kilometers
- B) are geologically old features
- C) are heavily mantled with sediment
- D) contain active rift zones
Correct Answer

A. D) contain active rift zones

Explanation

The correct answer is D) contain active rift zones. Mid-oceanic ridges are underwater mountain ranges where tectonic plates are moving apart. These ridges are characterized by the presence of active rift zones, where new crust is being formed through volcanic activity. This volcanic activity leads to the creation of new oceanic crust and the formation of rift valleys. Therefore, the crests of mid-oceanic ridges contain active rift zones.

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26.

________ turbidite deposits
- A. biogenous
- B. terrigenous
- C. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. B. terrigenous

Explanation

Turbidite deposits are sedimentary deposits that form from turbidity currents, which are underwater avalanches of sediment. These currents are mainly composed of terrigenous sediments, which are derived from the erosion of land and transported by rivers and wind. Therefore, the correct answer is b. terrigenous.

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27.

The Atlantic and Pacific basins have oceanic ridges; the Indian Ocean has no oceanic ridge
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

The statement is false because the Indian Ocean does have an oceanic ridge known as the Mid-Indian Ridge. This underwater mountain range runs through the Indian Ocean and is a site of tectonic activity, similar to the oceanic ridges found in the Atlantic and Pacific basins. Therefore, the statement that the Indian Ocean has no oceanic ridge is incorrect.

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28.

________ quartz sand
- A. biogenous
- B. terrigenous
- c. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. B. terrigenous

Explanation

Terrigenous refers to sediments that originate from the land, such as weathered rock fragments, minerals, and organic material that are transported by rivers, wind, or glaciers and eventually deposited in the ocean. Quartz sand is a type of terrigenous sediment that is composed mainly of quartz grains. This explanation aligns with the given correct answer, "b. terrigenous."

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29.

Turbidites and siliceous oozes are both biogenous sediments.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

The statement is false because turbidites are not biogenous sediments. Turbidites are actually a type of sedimentary rock that is formed from the deposition of sediment carried by turbidity currents. These currents are fast-moving underwater avalanches that transport and deposit a mixture of different types of sediments, including both biogenous and non-biogenous materials. On the other hand, siliceous oozes are biogenous sediments that are primarily composed of the remains of siliceous organisms such as diatoms and radiolarians. Therefore, while siliceous oozes are biogenous sediments, turbidites are not.

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30.

Which one of the following would you NOT associate with turbidity currents?
- A) excavation of submarine canyons
- B) density current
- C) formation of seamounts
- D) deposits of graded beds
Correct Answer

A. C) formation of seamounts

Explanation

Turbidity currents are fast-moving currents that transport sediment and can cause erosion. They are typically associated with the excavation of submarine canyons and the deposition of graded beds. Density currents, which are caused by differences in water density, can generate turbidity currents. However, the formation of seamounts is not typically associated with turbidity currents. Seamounts are underwater mountains that are formed by volcanic activity, not by the movement of sediment in turbidity currents.

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31.

Seafloor hot springs occur mainly in oceanic, abyssal plains.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

Seafloor hot springs, also known as hydrothermal vents, do not occur mainly in oceanic abyssal plains. They are actually found in various locations such as mid-ocean ridges, volcanic arcs, and back-arc basins. These hydrothermal vents are formed when seawater seeps into the seafloor and is heated by magma, creating hot springs that release mineral-rich fluids and support unique ecosystems.

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32.

Biogenous sediments are indicated by the number(s):
- A) 2, 3, 4, & 5
- B) 2, 3, & 4
- C) 2 & 3
- D) 2 & 4
Correct Answer

A. B) 2, 3, & 4

Explanation

Biogenous sediments are indicated by numbers 2, 3, and 4. This means that these sediments are derived from the remains of plants and animals. Number 2 refers to diatoms, which are single-celled algae with silica shells. Number 3 indicates foraminifera, which are marine protists with calcium carbonate shells. Number 4 represents coccolithophores, which are another type of marine algae with calcium carbonate shells. These organisms contribute to the formation of biogenous sediments through their skeletal remains.

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33.

The sediments that are produced in areas of high primary productivity are indicated by the number(s):
- A) 2 & 3
- B) 3 & 4
- C) 3
- D) 2
Correct Answer

A. A) 2 & 3

Explanation

The sediments that are produced in areas of high primary productivity are indicated by numbers 2 and 3. This suggests that these sediments are likely to contain high amounts of organic matter and have a higher concentration of nutrients. Areas of high primary productivity, such as estuaries or upwelling zones, support abundant growth of phytoplankton and other photosynthetic organisms. As these organisms die and sink to the bottom, they contribute to the accumulation of organic-rich sediments. Additionally, the high nutrient levels in these areas promote the growth of benthic organisms, whose remains also contribute to sediment formation.

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34.

________ diatom ooze
- A. biogenous
- B. terrigenous
- C. hydrogenous
Correct Answer

A. A. biogenous

Explanation

The given answer is "a. biogenous". Diatom ooze is a type of sediment that is primarily composed of the remains of diatoms, which are microscopic algae with hard silica shells. These diatoms live in marine environments and when they die, their shells sink to the ocean floor and accumulate over time, forming diatom ooze. Since diatoms are living organisms, the sediment derived from their remains is considered biogenous.

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35.

The gently sloping submerged surface extending from the shoreline toward the deep ocean is termed the ________.
- A) continental slope
- B) submarine canyon
- C) continental shelf
- D) continental rise
Correct Answer

A. C) continental shelf

Explanation

The gently sloping submerged surface extending from the shoreline toward the deep ocean is termed the continental shelf. This is the area of shallow water that extends from the shoreline to the point where the ocean floor drops off into deeper water. It is typically characterized by gentle slopes and is an important area for marine life and economic activities such as fishing and oil exploration. The continental slope, submarine canyon, and continental rise are all different features that are found beyond the continental shelf.

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36.

Which one of the following concerning mid-ocean ridges is false?
- A) are sites for submarine eruptions of basaltic lava A) are sites for submarine eruptions of basaltic lava
- B) are where young lithosphere is added to the edges of spreading, oceanic plates
- C) terrigenous sediment coverings are very thin or absent
- D) sediments include thick siliceous ooze deposits and sandy turbidite beds
Correct Answer

A. D) sediments include thick siliceous ooze deposits and sandy turbidite beds

Explanation

Mid-ocean ridges are sites for submarine eruptions of basaltic lava and where young lithosphere is added to the edges of spreading, oceanic plates. Additionally, terrigenous sediment coverings are very thin or absent. However, sediments in mid-ocean ridges do not include thick siliceous ooze deposits and sandy turbidite beds.

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37.

How do calcareous oozes form?
- A) the particles are precipitated in the water column below the and then sink to the bottom depth of sunlight penetration
- B) the particles are precipitated in warm, surface waters and sink to the bottom
- C) the particles are precipitated by bottom-dwelling organisms
- D) the particles settle out from calcite-rich turbidity currents at depths greater than 15,000 feet
Correct Answer

A. B) the particles are precipitated in warm, surface waters and sink to the bottom

Explanation

Calcareous oozes form when particles are precipitated in warm, surface waters and then sink to the bottom. This process occurs in areas with high levels of calcium carbonate, where the warm surface waters provide the necessary conditions for the particles to form and settle. As the particles sink to the bottom, they accumulate and contribute to the formation of calcareous oozes.

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38.

Submarine canyons found on the continental slope and are believed to have been created ________.
- A) by rivers during the ice age
- B) because of a plate plunging into the mantle
- C) by faulting
- D) none of these
Correct Answer

A. D) none of these

Explanation

The given answer states that submarine canyons found on the continental slope were not created by any of the options provided in the question. This means that the correct explanation for the creation of submarine canyons is not mentioned in the options given. Therefore, the answer is none of these.

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39.

________ develop where oceanic lithosphere bends downward and sinks into the mantle.
- A) Submarine canyons
- B) Deep ocean trenches
- C) Abyssal seamounts
- D) Rift valleys on mid-ocean ridges
Correct Answer

A. B) Deep ocean trenches

Explanation

Deep ocean trenches develop where oceanic lithosphere bends downward and sinks into the mantle. This process, known as subduction, occurs when one tectonic plate is forced beneath another plate. As the denser oceanic plate sinks into the mantle, it creates a deep trench on the ocean floor. These trenches are the deepest parts of the ocean and are often associated with intense seismic activity and volcanic eruptions.

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40.

Sediments that are derived primarily from the weathering on continental material are indicated by the number(s):
- A) 2 & 3
- B) 2
- C) 1& 5
- D) 3 &4
Correct Answer

A. C) 1& 5

Explanation

Sediments that are derived primarily from the weathering on continental material are indicated by the numbers 1 and 5. This means that these sediments come from the erosion and breakdown of rocks on land, rather than from other sources such as volcanic activity or marine organisms. The presence of these sediments suggests that the area where they are found was once connected to a continental landmass and has experienced weathering and erosion processes.

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41.

Which of the following contains silica (SiO2)?
- A) foraminiferans
- B) corals
- C) coccolithophores
- D) phosphorites
- E) radiolarians
Correct Answer

A. E) radiolarians

Explanation

Radiolarians contain silica (SiO2) in their exoskeletons. These marine planktonic organisms construct intricate skeletons made of silica, which are called tests. These tests are composed of SiO2 and are known for their intricate and delicate structures. Radiolarians play a significant role in the ocean ecosystem as they contribute to the silica cycle and are important in the formation of sedimentary rocks.

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42.

The major force bringing continental sediments to the open ocean is (are): .
- A) neritic currents.
- B) rivers.
- C) turbidity currents.
- D) glaciers.
- E) wind
Correct Answer

A. E) wind

Explanation

Wind is the major force bringing continental sediments to the open ocean. Wind can transport sediments from land to the ocean through processes such as erosion, deflation, and suspension. These sediments can then be transported by wind currents and deposited in the open ocean. This process is particularly prominent in coastal areas where strong winds and large amounts of sediment are present.

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43.

Sediments which are poorly sorted and made of a variety of minerals could have been deposited by: . .
- A) a volcanic eruption
- . B) a river delta.
- C) a glacier.
- D) turbidity currents
- E) the wind
Correct Answer

A. C) a glacier.

Explanation

Poorly sorted sediments that are made of a variety of minerals are typically associated with glacial deposits. Glaciers have the ability to transport and deposit a wide range of sediment sizes and types as they move and melt. As the glacier moves, it can pick up rocks and minerals of different sizes and compositions, creating a mixture of sediments that are poorly sorted. This is in contrast to other options such as a volcanic eruption, river delta, turbidity currents, or wind, which may deposit sediments that are more sorted or composed of a narrower range of minerals.

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44.

The element found in some sediments which suggest that a meteorite or asteroid impact occurred nearby is:
- A) uranium.
- B) iridium.
- C) manganese.
- D) strontium. D) strontium.
Correct Answer

A. B) iridium.

Explanation

Iridium is the correct answer because it is an element that is rare in the Earth's crust but abundant in meteorites and asteroids. The presence of iridium in sediments suggests that a meteorite or asteroid impact occurred nearby, as these extraterrestrial objects contain high levels of iridium. Uranium, manganese, and strontium are not directly associated with meteorite or asteroid impacts.

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45.

High energy environments are most likely to contain which one of the following?
- A) silt-sized particles
- B) large particles such as gravel
- C) cosmogenous sediments
- D) clay-sized particles
- E) manganese nodules
Correct Answer

A. B) large particles such as gravel

Explanation

High energy environments, such as fast-moving rivers or coastal areas with strong waves, are more likely to contain large particles such as gravel. This is because the high energy of the environment makes it difficult for smaller particles to settle and accumulate. In these environments, the force of the water or waves can easily transport and deposit larger particles, resulting in the presence of gravel.

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46.

The BEST definition of the outer edge of the continental shelf is that point where ________.
- A) a rapid steepening of the gradient occurs
- B) the water depth reaches 100 fathoms
- C) it meets an oceanic ridge
- D) the gradient becomes very gentle
Correct Answer

A. B) the water depth reaches 100 fathoms

Explanation

The outer edge of the continental shelf is defined as the point where the water depth reaches 100 fathoms. This means that as we move away from the shore, the depth of the water gradually increases until it reaches 100 fathoms, indicating the end of the continental shelf. This definition helps to distinguish the continental shelf from the deeper oceanic waters beyond.

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47.

The most likely place to find abundant manganese nodules is on the:
- A) abyssal plain far from a continent.
- B) continental rise.
- C) crest of a mid-ocean ridge.
- D) continental shelf.
- E) All of the above locations contain manganese nodules.
Correct Answer

A. A) abyssal plain far from a continent.

Explanation

Manganese nodules are typically found on the abyssal plain, which is a flat and deep region of the ocean floor far from any continents. This is because the formation of manganese nodules requires specific conditions, such as low sedimentation rates, slow growth rates, and a stable environment, which are more likely to be found in the abyssal plain. The continental rise, crest of a mid-ocean ridge, and continental shelf are not as suitable for the formation of manganese nodules due to different geological and environmental factors. Therefore, the most likely place to find abundant manganese nodules is on the abyssal plain far from a continent.

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48.

Which of the following contains calcium carbonate (CaCO3)?
- A) phosphorites
- B) diatoms
- C) radiolarians
- D) glauconite
- E) foraminiferans
Correct Answer

A. E) foraminiferans

Explanation

Foraminiferans are microscopic marine organisms that have shells made of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). These shells accumulate on the ocean floor over time and can form limestone deposits. Therefore, foraminiferans contain calcium carbonate.

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49.

Submarine canyons form the deepest parts of the ocean basins.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

Submarine canyons do not form the deepest parts of the ocean basins. The deepest parts of the ocean basins are actually found in areas called trenches, which are long, narrow depressions on the seafloor. Submarine canyons, on the other hand, are steep-sided valleys that cut into the continental slope. While they can be quite deep, they are not typically as deep as trenches. Therefore, the statement that submarine canyons form the deepest parts of the ocean basins is false.

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May 20, 2012

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Earth Science Exam #2 The Ocean

Which one of the following is NOT part of the continental margin?

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The surface waters in regions where evaporation rates are high, such as the Red Sea, have higher than average salinities

The ________ Ocean is largest

Sand, silt, and clays deposited on the ocean floor are described as terrigenous sediments

The oceans cover approximately ________ percent of Earth's surface.

Submerged, flat-topped seamounts are known as guyots.

"Black smokers" are associated with ________.

An echo sounder operates by measuring the time required for a ________.

Seamounts ________.

The continental rise lies at the bottom of the continental slope.

The ________ marks the transition between the warm surface layer and the deep zone of cold water in the oceans.

Compared to the Southern Hemisphere, a higher percentage of the Northern Hemisphere is water covered.

Which of the following is associated with ocean ridges?

Which one of the following salts is most abundant in seawater?

Which of the following is NOT true of deep ocean trenches?

Which of the following is not an important control on oceanic sediment accumulation?

________ manganese nodule

Minerals that crystallize directly from seawater are examples of ________.

________ calcareous ooze

________ abyssal plain clay

Which ocean has the greatest average depth?

Concerning the distribution of land and water, which of the following statements is true?

The continental rise is located ________.

Manganese nodules do not accumulate below 4500 meters depth because the manganese minerals are highly soluble in seawater below that depth.

The crests of mid-oceanic ridges ________.

________ turbidite deposits

The Atlantic and Pacific basins have oceanic ridges; the Indian Ocean has no oceanic ridge

________ quartz sand

Turbidites and siliceous oozes are both biogenous sediments.

Which one of the following would you NOT associate with turbidity currents?

Seafloor hot springs occur mainly in oceanic, abyssal plains.

Biogenous sediments are indicated by the number(s):

The sediments that are produced in areas of high primary productivity are indicated by the number(s):

________ diatom ooze

The gently sloping submerged surface extending from the shoreline toward the deep ocean is termed the ________.

Which one of the following concerning mid-ocean ridges is false?

How do calcareous oozes form?

Submarine canyons found on the continental slope and are believed to have been created ________.

________ develop where oceanic lithosphere bends downward and sinks into the mantle.

Sediments that are derived primarily from the weathering on continental material are indicated by the number(s):

Which of the following contains silica (SiO2)?

The major force bringing continental sediments to the open ocean is (are): .

Sediments which are poorly sorted and made of a variety of minerals could have been deposited by: . .

The element found in some sediments which suggest that a meteorite or asteroid impact occurred nearby is:

High energy environments are most likely to contain which one of the following?

The BEST definition of the outer edge of the continental shelf is that point where ________.

The most likely place to find abundant manganese nodules is on the:

Which of the following contains calcium carbonate (CaCO3)?

Submarine canyons form the deepest parts of the ocean basins.