Environmental Geosciences Exam 1

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  • 1/216 Questions

    Discharge of a stream is measured in which of the following units?

    • Cubic meters per second
    • Tons
    • Gallons
    • Cubic meters
    • Feet per second
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About This Quiz

Environmental Geosciences Exam 1 assesses knowledge of plate tectonics, including movement over the asthenosphere, production of new oceanic crust at divergent boundaries, and characteristics of volcanic island arcs in oceanic-oceanic subduction zones.

Environmental Geosciences Exam 1 - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    The Wasatch Fault is:

    • The normal fault

    • The reverse fault

    • The strike-slip fault

    • The aseismic fault

    Correct Answer
    A. The normal fault
    Explanation
    The Wasatch Fault is a normal fault. A normal fault occurs when the hanging wall moves downward relative to the footwall, resulting in tensional stress and the stretching or extension of the Earth's crust. In the case of the Wasatch Fault, the hanging wall is the block of rock above the fault line, and the footwall is the block of rock below the fault line. This fault is associated with the Basin and Range Province in western North America and is known for its seismic activity, including large earthquakes in the past.

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  • 3. 

    The largest particle a river can transport is called what?

    • Suspended load

    • Competence

    • Capacity

    • Channel

    Correct Answer
    A. Competence
    Explanation
    Competence refers to the largest particle size that a river can transport. It is determined by the velocity and strength of the river's current. If the particle size exceeds the river's competence, it will be deposited as sediment. Therefore, competence is a crucial factor in understanding the river's ability to transport sediment and shape its channel.

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  • 4. 

    By definition, minerals are:

    • Solid

    • Liquid

    • Organic

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Solid
    Explanation
    Minerals are defined as solid substances that occur naturally in the Earth's crust. They are inorganic, meaning they are not formed by living organisms. This is why the correct answer is "solid", as minerals cannot be liquid or organic.

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  • 5. 

    ................ of an area of Utah is suitable for frequent cultivation

    • 18%

    • 35%

    • 55%

    • 75%

    Correct Answer
    A. 18%
    Explanation
    18% of an area of Utah is suitable for frequent cultivation. This means that only a small portion, specifically 18%, of the total area in Utah is suitable for regular farming or cultivation. The remaining 82% of the area may have various factors that make it unsuitable for frequent cultivation, such as rocky terrain, arid climate, or other geographical limitations.

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  • 6. 

    The largest particle a river can transport is called what?

    • Suspended load

    • Competence

    • Capacity

    • Channel

    Correct Answer
    A. Competence
    Explanation
    Competence refers to the maximum particle size that a river is able to transport. It is determined by the velocity and strength of the river's current. If the particle is larger than the river's competence, it will be deposited on the riverbed. Therefore, competence is the correct answer as it describes the largest particle that a river can transport.

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  • 7. 

    ..................... deformation is not permanent.

    • Elastic

    • Plastic

    • Brittle

    • Ductile

    Correct Answer
    A. Elastic
    Explanation
    Elastic deformation refers to the temporary change in shape or size of a material when a force is applied, but it returns to its original shape once the force is removed. This type of deformation is reversible and does not cause any permanent changes in the material. Therefore, the given correct answer of "elastic" suggests that the deformation being referred to is temporary and not permanent.

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  • 8. 

    ..................... deformation is not permanent.

    • Elastic

    • Plastic

    • Brittle

    • Ductile

    Correct Answer
    A. Elastic
    Explanation
    Elastic deformation refers to the temporary change in shape or size of a material when a force is applied to it, but once the force is removed, the material returns to its original shape. This type of deformation is reversible and does not cause any permanent change in the material. Therefore, the correct answer is "elastic".

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  • 9. 

    A stream's ........ is the geographic region from which it draws its water.

    • Tributary

    • Drainage basin

    • Floodplain

    • Order

    Correct Answer
    A. Drainage basin
    Explanation
    A stream's drainage basin refers to the geographic region from which it draws its water. This basin includes all the land area that contributes water to the stream, such as the surrounding hills, valleys, and other water sources. The drainage basin acts as a natural boundary for the stream, determining the size and shape of the stream network. It plays a crucial role in the water cycle and the overall health of the stream ecosystem.

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  • 10. 

    Movement of the plates ranges from:

    • 1 to 20 cm/year

    • 100 to 2000 cm/year

    • 1000 to 20,000 cm/year

    • 10,000 to 200,000 cm/year

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 to 20 cm/year
    Explanation
    The movement of the plates ranges from 1 to 20 cm/year. This means that the plates can move at a rate of 1 centimeter to 20 centimeters per year. This movement is relatively slow and gradual, but over long periods of time, it can result in significant changes to the Earth's surface. This range is considered to be within the normal range of plate tectonic movement.

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  • 11. 

    Movement of the plates ranges from:

    • 1 to 20 cm/year

    • 100 to 2000 cm/year

    • 1000 to 20,000 cm/year

    • 10,000 to 200,000 cm/year

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 to 20 cm/year
    Explanation
    The movement of tectonic plates can range from 1 to 20 cm/year. This refers to the gradual shifting and sliding of the Earth's lithosphere plates, which make up the Earth's surface. This movement is caused by the convection currents in the Earth's mantle. While it may seem like a small distance, over millions of years, this movement can lead to significant geological changes, such as the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and the creation of new landforms.

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  • 12. 

    The number of protons is an element's:

    • Atomic number

    • Atomic mass number

    • Electron number

    • Electrical charge

    Correct Answer
    A. Atomic number
    Explanation
    The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in its nucleus. Protons are positively charged particles, and each element has a unique number of protons. Therefore, the correct answer is atomic number.

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  • 13. 

    The number of protons is an element's:

    • Atomic number

    • Atomic mass number

    • Electron number

    • Electrical charge

    Correct Answer
    A. Atomic number
    Explanation
    The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in its nucleus. Protons are positively charged particles, and they determine the identity of an element. Each element has a unique atomic number, which allows us to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, the correct answer is atomic number.

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  • 14. 

    Two most abundant chemical elements in the Earth's crust are:

    • Hydrogen and silicon

    • Oxygen and silicon

    • Silicon and carbon

    • Oxygen and carbon

    Correct Answer
    A. Oxygen and silicon
    Explanation
    Oxygen and silicon are the two most abundant chemical elements in the Earth's crust. Oxygen makes up about 46% of the Earth's crust, while silicon makes up about 28%. These elements are found in a wide variety of minerals and compounds, and their abundance in the crust is due to geological processes such as weathering and volcanic activity. Hydrogen and carbon are also important elements, but they are not as abundant in the Earth's crust as oxygen and silicon. Therefore, the correct answer is oxygen and silicon.

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  • 15. 

    Which of the listed minerals can be dissolved easily in water?

    • Calcite

    • Quartz

    • Diamond

    • Orthoclase

    Correct Answer
    A. Calcite
    Explanation
    Calcite can be easily dissolved in water because it is a mineral composed of calcium carbonate, which has a low solubility in water. When calcite comes into contact with water, the calcium carbonate molecules can break apart and dissolve, resulting in the mineral being dissolved in the water. This is why calcite is commonly found in areas with water, such as caves, hot springs, and limestone formations. In contrast, quartz, diamond, and orthoclase are not easily dissolved in water due to their different chemical compositions and structures.

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  • 16. 

    Conglomerates have grain fragments bigger than:

    • 1/16 mm

    • 2 mm

    • 0.1 mm

    • 20 mm

    Correct Answer
    A. 2 mm
    Explanation
    Conglomerates are sedimentary rocks that are composed of rounded grains larger than 2 mm in diameter. This means that the grain fragments in conglomerates are bigger than 2 mm.

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  • 17. 

    Annual sediment yield is greatest when annual rain precipitation is:

    • 50"

    • 12"

    • 5"

    • 100"

    Correct Answer
    A. 12"
    Explanation
    The annual sediment yield is greatest when the annual rain precipitation is 12 inches. This is because a higher amount of rainfall leads to more water flowing over the land surface, which in turn increases the erosion and transport of sediment. Therefore, a higher annual rain precipitation of 12 inches would result in a greater amount of sediment being carried by the water, leading to a higher sediment yield.

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  • 18. 

    Velocity of a raindrop may approach:

    • 1 mile per hour

    • 5 miles per hour

    • 200 feet per hour

    • 20 miles per hour

    Correct Answer
    A. 20 miles per hour
    Explanation
    The velocity of a raindrop may approach 20 miles per hour because raindrops can fall at different speeds depending on factors such as wind speed and air resistance. While the average speed of raindrops is typically around 15 miles per hour, it is possible for some raindrops to fall at speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

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  • 19. 

    Which mineral is the most resistant to chemical weathering?  

    • Feldspars

    • Micas

    • Quartz

    • Calcite

    Correct Answer
    A. Quartz
    Explanation
    Quartz is the most resistant to chemical weathering because it is composed of silicon and oxygen, which form strong bonds that are not easily broken down by chemical reactions. This makes quartz less susceptible to decay and dissolution compared to other minerals like feldspars, micas, and calcite.

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  • 20. 

    Where a sediment-laden stream flows into the ocean, a .......... may develop.

    • Levee

    • Delta

    • Point Bar

    • Terrace

    Correct Answer
    A. Delta
    Explanation
    When a sediment-laden stream flows into the ocean, a delta may develop. A delta is a landform that forms at the mouth of a river where it meets a body of water, such as an ocean or a lake. As the stream enters the calmer water, it loses its velocity and deposits the sediment it carries. Over time, these sediments accumulate and form a triangular or fan-shaped landform known as a delta. Deltas are typically characterized by their flat, fertile land and branching network of distributaries.

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  • 21. 

    Which mineral is the most resistant to chemical weathering?  

    • Feldspars

    • Micas

    • Quartz

    • Calcite

    Correct Answer
    A. Quartz
    Explanation
    Quartz is the most resistant mineral to chemical weathering because it is composed of silicon and oxygen, which form strong bonds that are difficult to break down. This makes quartz less susceptible to chemical reactions with water and other substances in the environment, allowing it to remain relatively unchanged over time. In contrast, minerals like feldspars, micas, and calcite are more prone to chemical weathering and can undergo reactions that lead to their decomposition or alteration.

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  • 22. 

    Which of the following is the definition of a stream’s gradient?

    • The surface of the stream’s cross section

    • The slope of the stream’s banks

    • The stream’s vertical drop per unit of horizontal distance

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. The stream’s vertical drop per unit of horizontal distance
    Explanation
    The stream's gradient refers to the vertical drop of the stream per unit of horizontal distance. It is a measure of the steepness or slope of the stream. This gradient is important in determining the flow and velocity of the stream, as well as its erosive power. The steeper the gradient, the faster the water will flow and the more erosive it will be. Therefore, the correct definition of a stream's gradient is the stream's vertical drop per unit of horizontal distance.

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  • 23. 

    What type of channels are characterized by numerous gravel bars and islands that divide and reunite the channel?

    • Urban

    • Riprap

    • Meandering

    • Deep

    • Braided

    Correct Answer
    A. Braided
    Explanation
    Braided channels are characterized by numerous gravel bars and islands that divide and reunite the channel. This type of channel has multiple interconnected channels flowing in parallel, creating a braided pattern. The presence of gravel bars and islands is a result of the high sediment load and variable flow conditions in braided channels. The sediment deposition and erosion processes constantly change the channel's shape and configuration, leading to the formation of these features.

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  • 24. 

    Which of the following is a method of flood prevention?  

    • dams

    • Flood walls

    • Channelization

    • Artificial levees

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    All of the options listed (dams, flood walls, channelization, and artificial levees) are methods of flood prevention. Dams are built to store excess water and release it in a controlled manner to prevent flooding. Flood walls are barriers constructed along rivers or coastlines to protect against rising water levels. Channelization involves modifying natural waterways to control the flow of water and reduce the risk of flooding. Artificial levees are raised embankments built along rivers to contain floodwaters and prevent them from overflowing. Therefore, all of these methods can be used to prevent floods.

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  • 25. 

    Which of the following is a method of flood prevention?  

    • dams

    • Flood walls

    • Channelization

    • Artificial levees

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    All of the options listed - dams, flood walls, channelization, and artificial levees - are methods of flood prevention. Dams can control the flow of water and store excess water during heavy rainfall. Flood walls are built along rivers or coastlines to prevent water from overflowing. Channelization involves modifying the natural flow of rivers and streams to redirect water away from populated areas. Artificial levees are embankments built along rivers to contain and control water levels during floods. Therefore, all of these methods contribute to flood prevention.

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  • 26. 

    Which of the following is a method of flood prevention?  

    • dams

    • Flood walls

    • Channelization

    • Artificial levees

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    All of the options mentioned (dams, flood walls, channelization, and artificial levees) are methods of flood prevention. Dams can control the flow of water and store excess water during heavy rainfall. Flood walls are built along rivers or coastlines to prevent water from overflowing. Channelization involves modifying natural waterways to increase their capacity and redirect floodwaters. Artificial levees are raised embankments constructed along rivers to contain floodwaters. Therefore, all of these methods contribute to flood prevention by managing and controlling the flow of water.

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  • 27. 

    ........... is a general term for sediments deposited by a stream.  

    • Levee

    • Overbank deposits

    • alluvium

    • Point bar

    Correct Answer
    A. alluvium
    Explanation
    Alluvium refers to the general term for sediments deposited by a stream. It includes a variety of materials such as sand, silt, clay, and gravel that are transported and deposited by the flowing water. This sediment is typically found in floodplains, riverbeds, and delta regions where the stream's velocity decreases, allowing the sediments to settle. Alluvium plays a significant role in shaping the landscape and providing fertile soil for agricultural activities.

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  • 28. 

    The water level at the mouth of a stream is the stream's ......... .

    • Competence

    • Base level

    • Capacity

    • Gradient

    Correct Answer
    A. Base level
    Explanation
    The water level at the mouth of a stream is referred to as the stream's base level. Base level is the lowest point to which the stream can erode its bed and transport sediment. It can be the level of a lake, sea, or ocean into which the stream flows. The stream will continue to erode and adjust its profile until it reaches equilibrium with the base level.

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  • 29. 

    Which of the following is one of the largest lithospheric plates?

    • The Fiji plate

    • The Eurasian plate

    • The Cocos plate

    • The Philippine plate

    • The Juan de Fuca plate

    Correct Answer
    A. The Eurasian plate
    Explanation
    The Eurasian plate is one of the largest lithospheric plates. It covers a vast area, including Europe, Asia, and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. This plate is significant because it interacts with several other plates, such as the North American plate and the African plate, leading to geological activities like earthquakes and the formation of mountain ranges.

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  • 30. 

    Magnetic stripes (zones with opposite magnetic properties) on the seafloor indicate a movement of tectonic plates away from:

    • Subduction zones

    • Mid-oceanic ridge

    • Oceanic trenches

    • Continental slopes

    Correct Answer
    A. Mid-oceanic ridge
    Explanation
    The correct answer is mid-oceanic ridge. Magnetic stripes on the seafloor are created by the process of seafloor spreading, where new crust is formed at mid-oceanic ridges and older crust is pushed away. As the new crust forms, it acquires the magnetic properties of the Earth's magnetic field at that time. Over time, the Earth's magnetic field reverses, resulting in alternating magnetic stripes on the seafloor. Therefore, the presence of magnetic stripes indicates a movement of tectonic plates away from the mid-oceanic ridge.

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  • 31. 

    What was the name of the supercontinent that consisted of all the present day continents?

    • Eurasia

    • Laurasia

    • Pangea

    • Gondwana

    Correct Answer
    A. Pangea
    Explanation
    Pangea was the name of the supercontinent that consisted of all the present-day continents. It existed around 300 million years ago and began to break apart around 175 million years ago. The concept of Pangea was proposed by Alfred Wegener in 1912 and is supported by geological and paleontological evidence. This supercontinent played a significant role in shaping the Earth's landmasses and the distribution of plants and animals across the globe.

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  • 32. 

    An atom that has lost  electrons is:

    • A cation

    • An anion

    • a neutron

    • Radioactive

    Correct Answer
    A. A cation
    Explanation
    When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged because the number of protons (positive charge) is greater than the number of electrons (negative charge). This positively charged atom is called a cation. Cations are formed when atoms undergo oxidation, which involves the loss of electrons. Therefore, the correct answer is "a cation."

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  • 33. 

    Ca-rich plagioclase feldspar and Na-rich plagioclase feldspars are:

    • Silicates

    • Sulfates

    • Carbonates

    • Oxides

    Correct Answer
    A. Silicates
    Explanation
    Ca-rich plagioclase feldspar and Na-rich plagioclase feldspars are silicates. Silicates are a type of mineral that contain silicon and oxygen, along with other elements such as calcium (Ca) or sodium (Na). Plagioclase feldspars are a group of silicate minerals that are commonly found in igneous rocks. The presence of calcium or sodium in the composition of plagioclase feldspars determines whether they are Ca-rich or Na-rich.

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  • 34. 

    Minerals which contain SO42- group (gypsum is one of them) are termed:

    • Silicates

    • Oxides

    • Sulfates

    • Carbonates

    Correct Answer
    A. Sulfates
    Explanation
    Minerals that contain the SO42- group are called sulfates. Gypsum is one example of a mineral that falls under this category. Sulfates are compounds that contain the sulfate ion (SO42-), which is made up of one sulfur atom bonded to four oxygen atoms. These minerals are commonly found in sedimentary rocks and are formed through the evaporation of water containing high concentrations of sulfate ions.

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  • 35. 

    ................... rocks form on the surface of the earth

    • Volcanic

    • Plutonic

    • Intrusive

    • Phaneritic

    Correct Answer
    A. Volcanic
    Explanation
    Volcanic rocks form on the surface of the earth through volcanic activity. When magma rises to the surface and cools rapidly, it solidifies and forms volcanic rocks. These rocks are typically fine-grained and may contain air bubbles or vesicles. Examples of volcanic rocks include basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

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  • 36. 

    Sediment yield from an area of 1 km2 is:

    • Greatest along the East cost

    • Greater from relatively small watersheds

    • Greater from relatively big watersheds

    • Does not change with the size of watersheds

    Correct Answer
    A. Greater from relatively small watersheds
    Explanation
    The answer is greater from relatively small watersheds. This is because smaller watersheds generally have steeper slopes and shorter flow paths, which result in faster and more concentrated runoff. This increased runoff leads to a higher sediment yield from small watersheds compared to larger ones.

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  • 37. 

    What is true about desertification?

    • It is the conversion of land from some productive state to that moreresembling a desert.

    • It can cause malnutrition and starvation of millions of people.

    • It is caused by deforestation, adverse soil erosion, and overuse of watersupplies.

    • None of the above are true.

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Desertification refers to the process of land becoming more like a desert, losing its productivity. It is true that desertification can lead to malnutrition and starvation for millions of people as it affects the availability of agricultural resources. The causes of desertification include deforestation, adverse soil erosion, and overuse of water supplies. Therefore, all of the above statements are true about desertification.

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  • 38. 

    How does urbanization affect soils?

    • Soil may be lost due to erosion.

    • Soils may be altered by importing different soil types.

    • Urbanization reduces the potential for soil pollution.

    • Construction activities permanently increase soil erosion rates.

    • A, b, and d above

    Correct Answer
    A. A, b, and d above
    Explanation
    Urbanization affects soils in multiple ways. Firstly, soil may be lost due to erosion, which can occur when urban areas have increased impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt, leading to increased runoff and soil erosion. Secondly, urbanization can result in the alteration of soils by importing different soil types, such as during construction projects or landscaping. Lastly, construction activities associated with urbanization can permanently increase soil erosion rates, further contributing to soil loss. Therefore, options a, b, and d are all correct explanations of how urbanization affects soils.

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  • 39. 

    The flat surface adjacent to a river channel is called what?

    • Channel

    • Floodplain

    • Drainage basin

    • Fault plain

    • River valley

    Correct Answer
    A. Floodplain
    Explanation
    A floodplain is a flat surface that is located next to a river channel. It is an area that is prone to flooding when the river overflows its banks. The floodplain is formed by the deposition of sediment carried by the river over time. It is an important natural feature that provides fertile soil for agriculture and supports diverse ecosystems.

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  • 40. 

    Which mineral is the most resistant to chemical weathering?  

    • Feldspars

    • Micas

    • Quartz

    • Calcite

    Correct Answer
    A. Quartz
    Explanation
    Quartz is the most resistant to chemical weathering because it is made up of silicon and oxygen, which form strong bonds that are not easily broken down by chemical reactions. This mineral is highly resistant to chemical processes such as dissolution and oxidation, making it less susceptible to weathering compared to other minerals like feldspars, micas, and calcite.

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  • 41. 

    What type of channels are characterized by numerous gravel bars and islands that divide and reunite the channel?

    • Urban

    • Riprap

    • Meandering

    • Deep

    • Braided

    Correct Answer
    A. Braided
    Explanation
    Braided channels are characterized by numerous gravel bars and islands that divide and reunite the channel. This type of channel has multiple interconnected smaller channels that are separated by these bars and islands. The flow of water is divided into several smaller channels, creating a complex network. This is typically seen in rivers with high sediment loads and variable flow rates. The braided pattern allows for the efficient transport of sediment and provides habitat diversity.

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  • 42. 

    The point on the earth's surface directly above hypocenter is the .......... of the earthquake.

    • Sharp

    • Epicenter

    • Trace

    • Focus

    Correct Answer
    A. Epicenter
    Explanation
    The point on the earth's surface directly above the hypocenter is known as the epicenter of the earthquake. The hypocenter is the actual location within the earth where the earthquake originates, while the epicenter is the point on the surface directly above it. This is the point where the seismic waves generated by the earthquake first reach the surface, causing the most intense shaking and damage.

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  • 43. 

    The intensity of an earthquake is described by:

    • Richter scale

    • Mercalli scale

    • Seismic scale

    • Seismograph scale

    Correct Answer
    A. Mercalli scale
    Explanation
    The Mercalli scale is used to describe the intensity of an earthquake. It measures the effects of an earthquake on people, buildings, and the environment, rather than the actual energy released by the earthquake. The scale ranges from I (not felt) to XII (total destruction), with different levels of intensity associated with different observed effects. Unlike the Richter scale, which measures the magnitude of an earthquake, the Mercalli scale provides a subjective assessment of the impact and damage caused by the earthquake.

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  • 44. 

    The magnitude of an earthquake is described by

    • Richter scale

    • Mercalli scale

    • Seismic scale

    • Seismograph scale

    Correct Answer
    A. Richter scale
    Explanation
    The magnitude of an earthquake is described by the Richter scale. This scale measures the amount of energy released by an earthquake at its source. The Richter scale is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number increase on the scale represents a tenfold increase in the amplitude of the seismic waves. This scale is widely used by seismologists to quantify the size of earthquakes and compare their intensities. The higher the magnitude on the Richter scale, the more powerful and destructive the earthquake is likely to be.

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  • 45. 

    The S-waves are:

    • Body compressional waves

    • Surface shear waves

    • Surface compressional waves

    • Body shear waves

    Correct Answer
    A. Body shear waves
    Explanation
    S-waves, also known as secondary waves, are a type of seismic wave that move through the Earth's interior. They are characterized by a side-to-side motion perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This motion causes particles in the medium to move in a shearing or twisting motion, similar to the way a rope moves when it is shaken. Therefore, S-waves are referred to as body shear waves because they propagate through the body of the Earth and cause shearing of the material they pass through.

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  • 46. 

    The largest possible earthquakes in the Wasatch Front region will be ................ in the Richter scale.

    • 3-4

    • 4.5-5.5

    • 6.5 - 7.5

    Correct Answer
    A. 6.5 - 7.5
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 6.5-7.5. This range indicates that the largest possible earthquakes in the Wasatch Front region will have a magnitude between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Richter scale. The Richter scale is a logarithmic scale that measures the amplitude of seismic waves produced by an earthquake, which is directly related to the energy released during the event. Therefore, earthquakes in this magnitude range would be considered significant and potentially cause significant damage and impact in the region.

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  • 47. 

    The frequency of a seismic wave is a reciprocal of:

    • Period

    • Acceleration

    • Velocity

    • Wave length

    Correct Answer
    A. Period
    Explanation
    The frequency of a seismic wave is a reciprocal of its period. Period refers to the time it takes for one complete cycle of the wave to pass a given point. Frequency, on the other hand, represents the number of complete cycles of the wave that occur in one second. Since frequency and period are inversely related, the reciprocal of the period gives us the frequency of the seismic wave.

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  • 48. 

    Maximum ground acceleration increases when:

    • Frequency and amplitude increase

    • Only amplitude increase

    • Frequency and amplitude decrease

    • S waves are faster than P waves

    Correct Answer
    A. Frequency and amplitude increase
    Explanation
    The maximum ground acceleration increases when both the frequency and amplitude increase. This means that when the frequency of the seismic waves (vibrations) and the amplitude (size) of the waves increase, the ground experiences stronger shaking. This can occur during more intense earthquakes or when the seismic waves travel through denser materials.

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  • 49. 

    In the theory of plate tectonics, the fragments of lithosphere called plates move over...

    • The asthenosphere

    • The outer core

    • The lithosphere

    • The lithosphere

    Correct Answer
    A. The asthenosphere
    Explanation
    In the theory of plate tectonics, the lithosphere, which is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, is divided into several large and small plates. These plates are not fixed in place, but rather they float and move over the underlying asthenosphere, which is a partially molten and more ductile layer of the Earth's upper mantle. The asthenosphere acts as a lubricating layer, allowing the plates to move and interact with each other. Therefore, the correct answer is the asthenosphere.

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  • Jun 23, 2011
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    Tuesdayisnice

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