Can You Pass The Geology Practice Exam?
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
The distribution of natural resources is influenced by the
- A.
All of the above
- B.
Types of rocks
- C.
Age of rocks
- D.
Ways that rocks are formed
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The distribution of natural resources is influenced by all of the factors mentioned above. Types of rocks play a role as different types of rocks contain different minerals and resources. The age of rocks is important because older rocks have had more time for the accumulation of resources. Additionally, the ways that rocks are formed, such as through volcanic activity or sedimentation, can affect the concentration and availability of natural resources. Therefore, all of these factors contribute to the distribution of natural resources.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Geology can help us learn about Earth's past by studying:
- A.
All the above
- B.
why continents and oceans are different
- C.
Why a landscape looks the way it does
- D.
How life in the past was different than today
Correct Answer
A. All the aboveExplanation
Geology can help us learn about Earth's past by studying various aspects. By examining all the above options, geologists can understand why continents and oceans are different, how landscapes have formed over time, and how life in the past differed from the present. Geology provides insights into the Earth's history and helps us understand the processes that have shaped our planet.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following Earth layers is the thinnest
- A.
Oceanic crust
- B.
Upper mantle
- C.
Lower mantle
- D.
Outer core
- E.
Inner core
Correct Answer
A. Oceanic crustExplanation
The oceanic crust is the thinnest layer among the given options. It is the outermost layer of the Earth's lithosphere and is found beneath the oceans. It is composed mainly of basaltic rocks and has an average thickness of around 5-10 kilometers. In contrast, the other layers mentioned, such as the upper and lower mantle, outer core, and inner core, are much thicker and located deeper within the Earth.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following is not an important difference between continents and oceans?
- A.
Whether it is part of the lithosphere
- B.
Elevation
- C.
Density of the crust
- D.
Thickness of the crust
- E.
Composition of the crust
Correct Answer
A. Whether it is part of the lithosphereExplanation
Continents and oceans differ in various aspects, including elevation, density, thickness, and composition of the crust. However, the presence or absence of being part of the lithosphere is not a significant difference between continents and oceans. This is because both continents and oceans are part of the lithosphere, which is the rigid outer layer of the Earth's crust and upper mantle. Therefore, the correct answer is "whether it is part of the lithosphere."Rate this question:
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- 5.
Radioactive decay within the earth produces heat; the other form of heat produced by the earth comes from
- A.
Heat trapped when the Earth was formed
- B.
Solar radiation trapped in the rock on the Earth's surface
- C.
Heat produced by air as it moves across the oceans
Correct Answer
A. Heat trapped when the Earth was formedExplanation
The correct answer is heat trapped when the Earth was formed. This is because when the Earth was formed, it was a hot, molten mass. As it cooled and solidified, the heat that was trapped during this process remained within the Earth's core. This heat is known as residual heat and continues to contribute to the overall heat produced by the Earth.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The age of a fossil, organism, rock, geologic feature or event as defined relative to other geologic features or events is the?
- A.
Relative age
- B.
Absolute age
- C.
Numerical age
- D.
Radiometric age
Correct Answer
A. Relative ageExplanation
Relative age refers to the age of a fossil, organism, rock, geologic feature, or event in relation to other geologic features or events. It is determined by comparing the position of the fossil or rock layer in the geologic record and using principles such as superposition and cross-cutting relationships. This method does not provide an exact age but rather establishes a sequence of events or a relative timeline.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is true about rocks and minerals?
- A.
A rock can contain more than one mineral
- B.
A mineral is composed of chemical elements
- C.
A single rock can include more than one mineral
- D.
All the above
Correct Answer
D. All the aboveExplanation
All of the given statements are true about rocks and minerals. Rocks can indeed contain more than one mineral, as they are composed of various minerals that are naturally occurring solid substances. Minerals, on the other hand, are indeed composed of chemical elements. Lastly, it is also true that a single rock can include more than one mineral, as rocks are often made up of a mixture of different minerals.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Rocks are composed of
- A.
Minerals
- B.
Crystals
- C.
Sand
- D.
Glass
Correct Answer
A. MineralsExplanation
Rocks are composed of minerals, which are naturally occurring inorganic substances with a specific chemical composition and crystal structure. Minerals are the building blocks of rocks and are formed through geological processes over millions of years. They can be identified by their physical and chemical properties, such as hardness, color, and luster. While crystals are a type of mineral, sand and glass are not minerals but rather products of weathering and human activity, respectively. Therefore, the correct answer is minerals.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The mineral halite has cube-shaped crystals because
- A.
There are no planes along which the mineral can break
- B.
Cubes are the most common way two tetrahedron can join
- C.
Of the arrangement of atoms in crystal lattice
- D.
Halite is soluble in water
Correct Answer
C. Of the arrangement of atoms in crystal latticeExplanation
The correct answer is that the cube-shaped crystals of halite are a result of the arrangement of atoms in the crystal lattice. The atoms in the crystal lattice are arranged in a way that allows the mineral to form cubic shapes. This arrangement of atoms determines the crystal structure and shape of the mineral.Rate this question:
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- 10.
If a mineral lacks planes along which is may cleave, what will occur?
- A.
The mineral will fracture in an irregular pattern
- B.
The mineral will not break
- C.
The mineral will fracture evenly along predictable planes
- D.
The mineral will still cleave but it will only occur along one plane
Correct Answer
A. The mineral will fracture in an irregular patternExplanation
If a mineral lacks planes along which it may cleave, it means that it does not have any specific weak points or directions along which it can easily break. As a result, when external forces are applied to the mineral, it will not break along any specific planes but instead fracture in an irregular pattern. This means that the mineral will break into random and unpredictable shapes and sizes, rather than breaking along clean, straight lines.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A porphyric igneous texture indicates that
- A.
The rock cooled slowly and then quickly
- B.
There was water in magma
- C.
The rock broke as it flowed
- D.
The rock cooled slowly
- E.
The ash and pumice became compacted
Correct Answer
A. The rock cooled slowly and then quicklyExplanation
A porphyric igneous texture indicates that the rock cooled slowly and then quickly. This is because porphyritic texture is characterized by large crystals (phenocrysts) surrounded by a fine-grained matrix (groundmass). The large crystals form when the magma cools slowly deep within the Earth's crust, allowing enough time for the crystals to grow. However, the magma is then rapidly brought to the surface, where it cools quickly, resulting in the formation of the fine-grained matrix. This dual cooling process gives rise to the porphyritic texture.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Rock that exhibits both coarse and fine-grained textures is called
- A.
Porphyritic
- B.
Pegmatite
- C.
Aphanitic
- D.
Glassy
Correct Answer
A. PorphyriticExplanation
Porphyritic is the correct answer because it refers to a rock that has both coarse and fine-grained textures. This means that the rock contains larger crystals (coarse-grained) embedded in a matrix of smaller crystals (fine-grained). This texture is typically formed when the rock undergoes two stages of cooling, with the initial slow cooling allowing for the growth of larger crystals, followed by rapid cooling that forms smaller crystals. Porphyritic rocks are commonly found in volcanic environments.Rate this question:
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- 13.
This volcano is broad and low and is composed of basaltic lava flows. What kind of volcano is it?
- A.
A shield volcano
- B.
Composite volcano
- C.
A caldera
- D.
A scoria cone
Correct Answer
A. A shield volcanoExplanation
A shield volcano is a type of volcano that is characterized by its broad and low shape, as well as its composition of basaltic lava flows. This type of volcano is formed by the eruption of fluid lava that spreads out in all directions, creating a gently sloping cone. Shield volcanoes are typically not very explosive and have a relatively calm eruption style. They are commonly found in areas with hotspots, such as the Hawaiian Islands.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Huge circular depressions from which volcanos erupt are called?
- A.
Calderas
- B.
Fissures
- C.
Cones
- D.
Domes
Correct Answer
A. CalderasExplanation
Calderas are huge circular depressions from which volcanoes erupt. They are formed when a volcano collapses after a large eruption, creating a large crater-like feature. Calderas can be several kilometers in diameter and are often filled with water or lava. They are distinct from fissures, which are long cracks in the Earth's surface from which lava can erupt, and from cones and domes, which are different types of volcanic landforms.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The higher the gas pressure builds in a magma,
- A.
The more explosive an eruption it is likely to produce
- B.
The more likely a volcanic dome is to form
- C.
The longer the lava flows on an eruption will produce
- D.
The less explosive an eruption is likely to produce
Correct Answer
A. The more explosive an eruption it is likely to produceExplanation
As the gas pressure builds in a magma, it creates a higher level of energy and force within the volcano. This increased pressure can result in a more explosive eruption. The gas bubbles within the magma expand rapidly, causing the magma to fragment and explode violently from the volcano. This can lead to the ejection of ash, rocks, and pyroclastic material into the atmosphere, creating a highly destructive eruption. Therefore, the higher the gas pressure, the more likely it is to produce a more explosive eruption.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Shield volcanos are composed primarily of
- A.
Rhyolite lava flows
- B.
Basalt lava flows
- C.
Andestite lave flows
Correct Answer
B. Basalt lava flowsExplanation
Shield volcanoes are composed primarily of basalt lava flows. Basalt is a type of igneous rock that is formed from the solidification of lava. It is characterized by its low viscosity, which allows it to flow easily and cover large areas. Shield volcanoes are typically formed by the accumulation of multiple layers of basaltic lava flows that spread out in a broad, flat shape resembling a shield. This type of lava has a low silica content, which contributes to its fluidity and ability to travel long distances before solidifying.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Shield volcanos have low slopes primarily because
- A.
The low viscosity of basaltic magma allow it to flow downhill for long distances
- B.
They never erupt from the same plate twice
- C.
Their abundant ash layers spread out large distances
Correct Answer
A. The low viscosity of basaltic magma allow it to flow downhill for long distancesExplanation
Shield volcanoes have low slopes primarily because the low viscosity of basaltic magma allows it to flow downhill for long distances. Basaltic magma has a lower silica content, which gives it a lower viscosity compared to other types of magma. This low viscosity allows the magma to flow more easily, resulting in gentle slopes as it spreads out over larger areas. As a result, shield volcanoes have a characteristic broad and shallow shape, with gently sloping sides.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Volcanic mudflows (lahars) are common on composite volcanoes because
- A.
Large amounts of rain and snowmelt mix with loose ash on steep slopes
- B.
Hot mud commonly erupts from their central craters
- C.
Such volcanoes form preferentailly in rainy tropical locations
Correct Answer
A. Large amounts of rain and snowmelt mix with loose ash on steep slopesExplanation
Volcanic mudflows, also known as lahars, are common on composite volcanoes because large amounts of rain and snowmelt mix with loose ash on steep slopes. This mixture of water and loose ash creates a highly fluid mudflow that can travel rapidly down the volcano's slopes, causing significant damage and posing a threat to nearby communities. The steep slopes of composite volcanoes make them more susceptible to mudflows, as the loose ash can easily be mobilized by the water and gravity, leading to the formation of lahars.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following activities is not used to monitor volcanos?
- A.
All of these are used to monitor volcano
- B.
Measuring tilting on he flanks of a volcano
- C.
Measuring changes in heat flow from satellites
- D.
Measuring seismic activity with seismic instruments
- E.
Measuring sulfur dioxide gas emissions
Correct Answer
A. All of these are used to monitor volcanoExplanation
All of the activities listed - measuring tilting on the flanks of a volcano, measuring changes in heat flow from satellites, measuring seismic activity with seismic instruments, and measuring sulfur dioxide gas emissions - are used to monitor volcanoes.Rate this question:
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- 20.
How can we tell that the Himalaya has been uplifted
- A.
All of the above
- B.
Deep rocks are exposed at the surface and yield young isotopic ages
- C.
Uplift can be measured with a gps
- D.
The top of Mount Everest contains a limestone with marine fossils
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." This means that all the given statements are indicators that the Himalaya has been uplifted. The first statement mentions that deep rocks are exposed at the surface and yield young isotopic ages, which suggests that there has been significant uplift. The second statement states that uplift can be measured with a GPS, indicating that there is evidence of vertical movement in the region. Finally, the third statement highlights that the top of Mount Everest contains a limestone with marine fossils, indicating that the area was once underwater and has been uplifted to its current height.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Regional Elevations on land are primarily controlled by
- A.
The thickness of continental crust
- B.
The temperature of the crust
- C.
Whether the area is over a hot sport
- D.
Whether the crust is old or was formed more recently
Correct Answer
A. The thickness of continental crustExplanation
The correct answer is the thickness of continental crust. Regional elevations on land are primarily controlled by the thickness of the continental crust. The thicker the crust, the higher the elevation. This is because the crust acts as a buoyant layer on top of the denser mantle. Areas with thicker continental crust, such as mountain ranges, tend to have higher elevations, while areas with thinner continental crust, such as basins, tend to have lower elevations. The temperature of the crust, whether the area is over a hot spot, and whether the crust is old or formed more recently may have some influence on regional elevations, but they are not the primary controlling factors.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The principle that regional elevations adjust to the types and thicknesses of rocks at depth is known as:
- A.
Isostasy
- B.
Superposition
- C.
Elastic rebound
- D.
Equanimity
Correct Answer
A. IsostasyExplanation
Isostasy is the principle that regional elevations adjust to the types and thicknesses of rocks at depth. This means that the Earth's crust will rise or sink in response to the weight of the rocks beneath it. This principle helps explain why mountain ranges have roots that extend deep into the Earth's mantle and why areas with thick sedimentary deposits may have lower elevations. Isostasy is an important concept in geology and helps explain the dynamic nature of Earth's crust.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following are tectonic settings in which regional mountain belts form?
- A.
All of the above
- B.
Mantle upwellings
- C.
Continental collisions
- D.
Subduction zones
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." This means that all of the options provided (mantle upwellings, continental collisions, and subduction zones) are tectonic settings in which regional mountain belts can form. This suggests that these three processes can lead to the formation of mountain ranges on a larger scale, indicating the dynamic nature of Earth's tectonic plates and the diverse mechanisms that contribute to mountain building.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What is the main reason why the oldest rocks can vary from one part of a continent to another
- A.
Part of the continent have been added by the accretion of tectonic terranes
- B.
Large parts of the continent are subducted deep within the mantle
- C.
Older rocks have been uplifted and eroded away
- D.
Older rocks are commonly remelted over huge regions
Correct Answer
A. Part of the continent have been added by the accretion of tectonic terranesExplanation
The main reason why the oldest rocks can vary from one part of a continent to another is that parts of the continent have been added by the accretion of tectonic terranes. This means that different pieces of land have been added to the continent over time, and these pieces may have different geological histories and ages of rocks. As a result, the oldest rocks in one part of the continent may be much younger or older than the oldest rocks in another part.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Why does the Tibetan Plateau have a high elevation?
- A.
Continental collision
- B.
Continental rifting
- C.
Seafloor spreading
- D.
Transform faulting
- E.
Hot spot activity
Correct Answer
A. Continental collisionExplanation
The Tibetan Plateau has a high elevation due to continental collision. This occurs when two continental plates collide and push against each other, causing the crust to buckle and uplift. In the case of the Tibetan Plateau, the Indian Plate is colliding with the Eurasian Plate, resulting in the uplift and formation of the plateau. The collision between these two plates has been ongoing for millions of years, gradually pushing up the crust and creating the high elevation seen in the region.Rate this question:
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- 26.
How did the Red Sea, shown between Arabia and Africa in this figure, form?
- A.
Continental rifting following by seafloor spreading
- B.
A continental collision
- C.
Subduction of Africa beneath Arabia
- D.
Subduction of Arabia beneath Africa
Correct Answer
A. Continental rifting following by seafloor spreadingExplanation
The Red Sea formed through continental rifting followed by seafloor spreading. Continental rifting occurs when tectonic plates move apart, creating a gap. In this case, the Arabian and African plates moved apart, creating a rift. Seafloor spreading then took place, where magma rises to the surface and creates new oceanic crust. This process led to the formation of the Red Sea as a result of the separation of the Arabian and African plates.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which data were used to develop the hypothesis of continental drift?
- A.
All of these
- B.
The distribution of glacial deposits and directions of glacial scratch marks
- C.
The distribution of fossils
- D.
The shape of the continents
Correct Answer
A. All of theseExplanation
The hypothesis of continental drift was developed using all of the mentioned data. The distribution of glacial deposits and directions of glacial scratch marks provided evidence of past glaciations that could only be explained by the movement of continents. The distribution of fossils also played a crucial role in supporting the hypothesis, as similar fossils were found on different continents that were once connected. Additionally, the shape of the continents, particularly the way they fit together like puzzle pieces, further supported the idea of continental drift.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Mid-Ocean ridges form where two ocean plates?
- A.
Diverge
- B.
Collide
- C.
Subduct
- D.
Slide past one another
Correct Answer
A. DivergeExplanation
Mid-ocean ridges form where two ocean plates diverge. Divergence occurs when the plates move away from each other, creating a gap in the ocean floor. As the plates separate, magma rises from the mantle to fill the gap, creating new crust. Over time, this process builds up a ridge of volcanic activity along the divergent boundary. This is why mid-ocean ridges are often associated with volcanic activity and the formation of new oceanic crust.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The process of one plate sliding beneath another plate is called
- A.
Subduction
- B.
Transformation
- C.
Convergence
- D.
Divergence
Correct Answer
A. SubductionExplanation
Subduction is the correct answer because it refers to the process of one tectonic plate sliding beneath another plate. This occurs at convergent plate boundaries, where two plates are moving towards each other. As one plate sinks into the mantle, it is subducted beneath the other plate. This process is responsible for the formation of trenches, volcanic arcs, and mountain ranges. Transformation refers to the process of one type of rock changing into another, convergence refers to plates coming together, and divergence refers to plates moving apart.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Approximately how fast do tectonic plates move?
- A.
Centimeters per year
- B.
Meters per year
- C.
Kilometers per year
- D.
Hundreds of kilometers per year
Correct Answer
A. Centimeters per yearExplanation
Tectonic plates move at a very slow pace, measured in centimeters per year. This movement is due to the convection currents in the Earth's mantle. The plates can either move apart, collide, or slide past each other at plate boundaries. This slow movement over millions of years leads to geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The Earth's magnetic field is generated by:
- A.
Movement of iron and electrical currents within Earth's outer core
- B.
Convection currents in the asthenosphere
- C.
Salty water moving through the deep parts of the crust
- D.
Aligned magnetic minerals within Earth's inner core
Correct Answer
A. Movement of iron and electrical currents within Earth's outer coreExplanation
The Earth's magnetic field is generated by the movement of iron and electrical currents within Earth's outer core. The outer core is composed of molten iron and nickel, and the movement of this liquid metal creates convection currents. These currents, combined with the Earth's rotation, generate electrical currents. The interaction between these electrical currents and the Earth's magnetic field creates a dynamo effect, resulting in the generation of the magnetic field.Rate this question:
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- 32.
How do we determine the location of a recent earthquake?
- A.
Use the different in time it takes for seismic waves to reach three or more stations
- B.
All of the above
- C.
Use gps measurements of how the land move
- D.
Measure the amplitude of surface waves in a single station
Correct Answer
A. Use the different in time it takes for seismic waves to reach three or more stationsExplanation
To determine the location of a recent earthquake, we use the difference in time it takes for seismic waves to reach three or more stations. By measuring the arrival times of these waves at different stations, we can triangulate the epicenter of the earthquake. This method is based on the fact that seismic waves travel at different speeds through different materials, allowing us to calculate the distance from each station to the epicenter. By intersecting these distances, we can pinpoint the exact location of the earthquake.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The amplitude of a seismic wave on a seismograph is used to calculate?
- A.
The magnitide
- B.
The richer scale
- C.
The depth of the focus
- D.
The amount of shaking
Correct Answer
A. The magnitideExplanation
The amplitude of a seismic wave on a seismograph is used to calculate the magnitude of an earthquake. The magnitude is a measure of the energy released by the earthquake, and it helps in understanding the severity and impact of the earthquake. By measuring the amplitude of the seismic wave, scientists can determine the magnitude on various scales such as the Richter scale. The depth of the focus and the amount of shaking are not directly calculated from the amplitude of the seismic wave.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Shaking during an earthquake can
- A.
All of the above
- B.
Trigger landslides
- C.
Generate a tsunami
- D.
Cause rigid buildings to collapse
Correct Answer
A. All of the aboveExplanation
During an earthquake, shaking can trigger landslides as the ground becomes unstable and loose soil or rocks can slide down slopes. The shaking can also generate a tsunami if the earthquake occurs under the ocean, causing the water above to be displaced and creating powerful waves. Additionally, the intense shaking can cause rigid buildings to collapse as the structural integrity is compromised, leading to devastating damage and potential loss of life. Therefore, all of the above options are possible consequences of shaking during an earthquake.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following are high-risk factors for earthquakes with high death tolls and high damages?
- A.
High population densities
- B.
Substandard construction practices or poor regulation
- C.
Building on solid rock
- D.
Building on loose sediment
- E.
Building on a water front
Correct Answer(s)
A. High population densities
B. Substandard construction practices or poor regulation
D. Building on loose sedimentExplanation
High population densities, substandard construction practices or poor regulation, and building on loose sediment are high-risk factors for earthquakes with high death tolls and high damages. High population densities increase the number of people exposed to the earthquake hazard, leading to a higher potential for casualties. Substandard construction practices or poor regulation mean that buildings are not built to withstand the forces of an earthquake, making them more vulnerable to collapse. Building on loose sediment can amplify ground shaking during an earthquake, causing more damage to structures.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Why does the US have such varying risks of seismic activity?
- A.
These are all reasons the US has varying risks of seismic activity
- B.
Volcanic activity can cause seismic risk in some areas
- C.
Some regions in the continetal interior have active fault systems
- D.
Some areas are near plate boundaries, while others are not
Correct Answer
A. These are all reasons the US has varying risks of seismic activityExplanation
The US has varying risks of seismic activity due to a combination of factors. Volcanic activity is one reason for seismic risk in certain areas, as volcanic eruptions can trigger earthquakes. Additionally, some regions in the continental interior have active fault systems, which increase the likelihood of seismic events. Furthermore, the proximity to plate boundaries also plays a role, as areas near these boundaries are more prone to seismic activity compared to those further away.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following is most likely to occur at shallow crustal levels?
- A.
Brittle deformation
- B.
Ductile behavior
- C.
Growth of new minerals
- D.
Metamorphism
Correct Answer
A. Brittle deformationExplanation
Brittle deformation is most likely to occur at shallow crustal levels because it involves the fracturing and breaking of rocks under high stress conditions. At shallow depths, the pressure and temperature are not high enough for rocks to exhibit ductile behavior, which involves the bending and flowing of rocks. The growth of new minerals and metamorphism usually occur at deeper crustal levels where there is higher temperature and pressure.Rate this question:
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- 38.
What are the three main types of stress?
- A.
Compression, Tension and Shear
- B.
Confining stress, deformation and folding
- C.
Convergence, divergence and transform faulting
- D.
Positive, negative and neutral
Correct Answer
A. Compression, Tension and ShearExplanation
The three main types of stress are compression, tension, and shear. Compression occurs when forces push or squeeze an object together, causing it to become shorter and denser. Tension is the opposite of compression, where forces stretch or pull an object apart, causing it to become longer and thinner. Shear stress occurs when forces act parallel to each other but in opposite directions, causing the object to deform or slide. These three types of stress play a significant role in various geological processes and can lead to the formation of mountains, faults, and earthquakes.Rate this question:
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- 39.
What type of stress is the cause of most folding
- A.
Compression
- B.
Tension
- C.
Confining pressure
- D.
Fluid pressure
Correct Answer
A. CompressionExplanation
Compression is the type of stress that is the cause of most folding. When rocks are subjected to compressive forces, they are squeezed or pushed together, causing them to fold and buckle. This type of stress is commonly found in convergent plate boundaries where two tectonic plates collide. The compression forces act perpendicular to the direction of the fold, leading to the formation of folds in the rock layers.Rate this question:
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- 40.
When do rocks along a fault have the highest amount of stress and sored elastic strain?
- A.
Right before an earthquake
- B.
Right after an earthquake
- C.
Several weeks or months after a earthquake
- D.
None
Correct Answer
A. Right before an earthquakeExplanation
Rocks along a fault have the highest amount of stress and stored elastic strain right before an earthquake because the tectonic forces acting on the rocks continue to build up, causing them to deform and accumulate energy. This energy is stored as elastic strain in the rocks, which is released in the form of an earthquake when the stress exceeds the strength of the rocks. Therefore, the highest amount of stress and stored elastic strain is reached right before an earthquake occurs.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Most of the exposed surface of the Earth is covered with
- A.
Sediment and sedimentary rocks
- B.
Sediment and igneous rocks
- C.
Sediment and metamorphic rocks
- D.
Mainly igneous rocks with some soil
Correct Answer
A. Sediment and sedimentary rocksExplanation
The correct answer is "Sediment and sedimentary rocks." Sediment refers to particles of rock and organic material that are transported and deposited by water, wind, or ice. Over time, these sediments accumulate and become compacted and cemented to form sedimentary rocks. Sedimentary rocks cover most of the Earth's exposed surface because they are formed through the processes of weathering, erosion, transportation, deposition, and lithification, which are common and ongoing geological processes.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The two main processes by which sediment is produced are
- A.
Physical and chemical weathering
- B.
Subduction and melting
- C.
Transportation and deposition
Correct Answer
A. Physical and chemical weatheringExplanation
The correct answer is physical and chemical weathering. This is because physical weathering involves the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces through processes like freeze-thaw cycles and abrasion, while chemical weathering involves the alteration of rock composition through chemical reactions. Both of these processes contribute to the production of sediment by breaking down larger rocks into smaller particles that can be transported and deposited elsewhere.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Lithification can be defined as
- A.
Loose sediment hardens into sedimentary rock
- B.
Loose sediment breaks off of sedimentary rocks
- C.
Sediment settles from the water column
- D.
None
Correct Answer
A. Loose sediment hardens into sedimentary rockExplanation
Lithification refers to the process by which loose sediment, such as sand or mud, becomes compacted and cemented together to form sedimentary rock. This process involves the removal of water from the sediment, as well as the deposition of minerals that act as a binding agent. Over time, the pressure from overlying layers and the chemical reactions between the minerals cause the sediment to harden and solidify into rock.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Fluvial refers to
- A.
The processes and sediment of stream and rivers
- B.
The movement of fluids underground
- C.
The hydrological cycle
- D.
None
Correct Answer
A. The processes and sediment of stream and riversExplanation
Fluvial refers to the processes and sediment of streams and rivers. This term encompasses the various activities and materials associated with the flow of water in these natural watercourses. It includes erosion, transportation, and deposition of sediment, as well as the formation of landforms such as meanders and floodplains. Fluvial processes are crucial for shaping the landscape, influencing the distribution of water resources, and supporting diverse ecosystems that depend on these water bodies.Rate this question:
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- 45.
If you were designing a rock that resisted weathering, which of the following characteristics would it have?
- A.
Closely spaced fractures
- B.
A soluble chemical composition
- C.
A quartz-rich rock
- D.
A rock composed of abundant loose pieces
Correct Answer
C. A quartz-rich rockExplanation
A quartz-rich rock would resist weathering because quartz is a very hard and durable mineral. It is resistant to chemical weathering and erosion, making it a good choice for a rock that needs to withstand the effects of weathering.Rate this question:
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- 46.
If a rock is poorly sorted, this means the rock contains
- A.
Some parts that are reddish a wide range in the size of clasts
- B.
Some angular and some rounded clasts
- C.
Mostly sand
- D.
A great variety of rock types as clasts
Correct Answer
A. Some parts that are reddish a wide range in the size of clastsExplanation
A rock that is poorly sorted means that it contains some parts that are reddish and a wide range in the size of clasts. Poor sorting indicates that the clasts in the rock have not been evenly or uniformly sized. The presence of reddish parts suggests the presence of different minerals or materials in the rock, while the wide range in clast size indicates a lack of sorting and indicates a mixture of different sizes of particles.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Identify the factor that strongly influences the size, shape, and sorting of sedimentary clasts.
- A.
All of these
- B.
Agents of transport
- C.
Strength of current
- D.
Sediment supply
- E.
Steepness of slope
Correct Answer
A. All of theseExplanation
All of these factors strongly influence the size, shape, and sorting of sedimentary clasts. The agents of transport, such as wind, water, or ice, determine how the sediments are moved and deposited, affecting their size and shape. The strength of the current determines the energy of the transport, which can impact the sorting of the sediments. Sediment supply plays a crucial role in determining the quantity and type of sediments available for deposition. Lastly, the steepness of the slope affects the speed and force of the transport, influencing the size and sorting of the clasts.Rate this question:
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- 48.
What is the main reason why the oceans are salty
- A.
Weathering of rocks releases chemical elements that make the oceans salty
- B.
Salt deposits that formed early in earth history become dissolved by modern oceans
- C.
The early oceans were salty from dirt and debris on incoming comets
- D.
Blowing salt crystals become incorporated into clouds and falls with the rainfall
Correct Answer
A. Weathering of rocks releases chemical elements that make the oceans saltyExplanation
The main reason why the oceans are salty is because weathering of rocks releases chemical elements that make the oceans salty. As rocks on land are exposed to weathering processes such as erosion, they release minerals and ions into rivers and streams, which eventually flow into the oceans. Over time, these dissolved minerals and ions accumulate in the oceans, resulting in their saltiness. This process has been ongoing for millions of years and is the primary source of salt in the oceans.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Which of the following are true about factors that influence weathering?
- A.
Soil and other weathering products tend to accumulate more on gentle slopes than on steep slopes
- B.
Weather a slope faces toward or away from the sun is not important factor influencing weathering.
- C.
Time is not a critical factor in weathering because physical and chemical processes have not changed much through time.
- D.
Chemical weathering occurs fastest in cold or dry climates
Correct Answer
A. Soil and other weathering products tend to accumulate more on gentle slopes than on steep slopesExplanation
Soil and other weathering products are more likely to accumulate on gentle slopes than on steep slopes because gravity plays a role in the movement of these materials. On steep slopes, gravity has a stronger pull, causing the weathering products to be washed away or transported downhill more easily. On the other hand, gentle slopes provide a more stable environment for these materials to accumulate over time.Rate this question:
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- 50.
What is the angle of repose?
- A.
The steepest angle at which loose material remains stable
- B.
The angle at which rainfall strikes an unstable slope
- C.
The angle of fractures on hills where fractures dip parallel to the slope
- D.
The angle of bedding on hills where layers dip parallel to the slope
Correct Answer
A. The steepest angle at which loose material remains stableExplanation
The angle of repose refers to the steepest angle at which loose material, such as sand or gravel, can remain stable without sliding or collapsing. It is the maximum slope angle that the material can maintain without any additional support or external forces. This angle is influenced by factors such as the size and shape of the particles, the moisture content, and the friction between the particles.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Nov 16, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 07, 2019Quiz Created by
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