Introduction, Plate Tectonics, Geologic Time, Sed. Archives, And Fossils
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Exam One Questions.
- 1.
The scientific method commonly begins with
- A.
Unproven beliefs
- B.
A hypothesis
- C.
A question
- D.
Scientific laws
- E.
Observations
Correct Answer
E. ObservationsExplanation
The scientific method commonly begins with observations because it is through careful observation and data collection that scientists can identify patterns, trends, and phenomena that need to be explained. Observations provide the foundation for generating hypotheses, which are testable explanations for the observed phenomena. By starting with observations, scientists can gather evidence and data to support or refute their hypotheses, leading to a deeper understanding of the natural world.Rate this question:
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- 2.
One of the three great themes in Earth history is:
- A.
Absolute age
- B.
Plate tectonics
- C.
Divergent boundaries
- D.
Radioactivity
- E.
Natural selection
Correct Answer
B. Plate tectonicsExplanation
Plate tectonics is a correct answer because it is indeed one of the three great themes in Earth history. Plate tectonics refers to the theory that explains the movement and interaction of Earth's lithospheric plates, which are large rigid pieces of the Earth's outer shell. This theory helps us understand various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges. It has revolutionized our understanding of the Earth's surface and the processes that shape it over time.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The term half-life is related most closely to ___________.
- A.
Relative age dating
- B.
Absolute age dating
- C.
Deformation of the asthenosphere
- D.
Formation of the lithosphere
- E.
Organic evolution
Correct Answer
B. Absolute age datingExplanation
The term half-life is related most closely to absolute age dating. Absolute age dating is a method used to determine the age of a rock or fossil in years, by measuring the ratio of parent isotopes to daughter isotopes in a sample. The concept of half-life is used in this process, as it refers to the time it takes for half of the parent isotopes to decay into daughter isotopes. By measuring the ratio of parent to daughter isotopes and knowing the half-life, scientists can calculate the age of a sample.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Plate boundaries where plates move past one another are called __________.
- A.
Divergent
- B.
Lithospheric
- C.
Convergent
- D.
Organic
- E.
Transform
Correct Answer
E. TransformExplanation
Transform plate boundaries occur where two plates slide past each other horizontally. This movement can result in earthquakes and the formation of faults. Unlike convergent boundaries where plates collide or divergent boundaries where plates separate, transform boundaries involve shear stress and lateral movement along the fault line. The San Andreas Fault in California is a well-known example of a transform plate boundary.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The age of the Earth is _____________.
- A.
4,600,000 years
- B.
5.5 million years
- C.
150,000 to 300,000 years
- D.
4.6 billion years
- E.
704 million years
Correct Answer
D. 4.6 billion yearsExplanation
The age of the Earth is believed to be 4.6 billion years. This estimate is based on various scientific methods, including radiometric dating of rocks and minerals, as well as studying the formation and evolution of the solar system. These methods have provided strong evidence that the Earth formed around 4.6 billion years ago, making it one of the oldest known objects in the universe.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The radioactive process creates stable ____________.
- A.
Particles that are expelled
- B.
Daughter atoms
- C.
Rock outcrops in Canada
- D.
Divergent boundaries
- E.
Natural selection
Correct Answer
B. Daughter atomsExplanation
The radioactive process involves the decay of unstable parent atoms into more stable daughter atoms. This decay process releases particles that are expelled from the parent atom. Therefore, the correct answer is "daughter atoms" as they are the stable products created by the radioactive process.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A mineral with a ratio of 1:1 among parent and daughter atoms must
- A.
Have formed only days ago
- B.
Be at the age corresponding to the second half-life
- C.
Have passed the age of the second half-life
- D.
Be at the age corresponding to the first half-life
- E.
Be worthless for age dating
Correct Answer
D. Be at the age corresponding to the first half-lifeExplanation
The correct answer is "be at the age corresponding to the first half-life." This is because a mineral with a ratio of 1:1 among parent and daughter atoms indicates that half of the parent atoms have decayed into daughter atoms. This corresponds to the first half-life of the radioactive decay process. Therefore, the mineral must be at the age corresponding to the first half-life.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Geologists and other scientists assume that the results of an experiment conducted on a given day will be applicable to events that take place a day, a year, a century, or a million years later. Which concept best fits this example?
- A.
Uniformitarianism
- B.
Actualism
- C.
Catastrophism
- D.
Principle of original lateral continuity
- E.
Natural Selection
Correct Answer
A. UniformitarianismExplanation
Uniformitarianism is the concept that best fits this example. It is the principle in geology that states that the processes and natural laws that operate in the present have also operated in the past and will continue to do so in the future. This means that the results of an experiment conducted on a given day can be applied to events that occur at different time scales, from a day to millions of years later. It assumes that the same geological processes and laws of nature have been at work throughout Earth's history.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Layers of rocks outcropping on one side of a highway are the same as the layers of rocks outcropping on the other side of the highway, a distance of 1000m. Which best principle explains this example?
- A.
Principle of Unconformity
- B.
Principle of Superposition
- C.
Principle of Original Horizontality
- D.
Principle of Original Lateral Continuity
- E.
Principle of Intrusive Relationships
Correct Answer
D. Principle of Original Lateral ContinuityExplanation
The Principle of Original Lateral Continuity best explains this example. This principle states that layers of sedimentary rocks originally extended in all directions until they thinned out or were interrupted by a barrier. In this case, the layers of rocks on one side of the highway are the same as the layers on the other side, indicating that they were once connected and have been separated by the formation of the highway.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following rocks can an absolute date be extracted?
- A.
A layered sandstone
- B.
A fossiliferous limestone
- C.
A fossiliferous shale
- D.
A gneiss rock that extremely altered through contact metamorphism
- E.
A basaltic rock cooled from a volcano
Correct Answer
E. A basaltic rock cooled from a volcanoExplanation
A basaltic rock cooled from a volcano can be used to extract an absolute date because the process of cooling and solidifying from molten lava allows for the formation of minerals that can be dated using radiometric methods. These methods involve measuring the ratio of parent to daughter isotopes in the rock, which can provide an accurate estimate of the rock's age.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Such time units as eons, eras, periods, and epochs in the geologic time scale correspond to _______.
- A.
Seconds, minutes, hours and days
- B.
Days, hours, minutes and seconds
- C.
Seconds, hours, minutes and days
- D.
Months, days, years and hours
- E.
Hours, minutes, days and months
Correct Answer
B. Days, hours, minutes and secondsExplanation
The geologic time scale is a system used to divide Earth's history into different time intervals. The time units mentioned in the question, such as eons, eras, periods, and epochs, are all part of this scale. These units represent vast periods of time, ranging from billions of years (eons) to millions of years (eras) to thousands of years (epochs). Therefore, it is logical to correlate these time units with smaller units of time, such as days, hours, minutes, and seconds, to measure and understand the duration of different geological events.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Where are the oldest rocks on Earth found?
- A.
On the platform of the craton.
- B.
On the shield of the craton.
- C.
In an orogenic belt.
- D.
On the ocean shelf.
- E.
On the abyssal plain.
Correct Answer
B. On the shield of the craton.Explanation
The oldest rocks on Earth are found on the shield of the craton. The craton is the stable interior of a continent, and the shield is the exposed portion of the craton. These rocks have been preserved for billions of years and provide valuable insights into the Earth's early history. The other options, such as the platform of the craton, orogenic belt, ocean shelf, and abyssal plain, are not typically associated with the oldest rocks on Earth.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The ratio of parent to daughter isotopes in a radioactive decay process is 0.40 (i.e. 40% parent & 60% daughter atoms.) How many half-lives have elapsed since the material was 100% parent atoms?
- A.
Less than 1.
- B.
More than 3.
- C.
Between 1 and 2.
- D.
Between 2 and 3.
- E.
Can't be determined.
Correct Answer
C. Between 1 and 2.Explanation
The ratio of parent to daughter isotopes in a radioactive decay process is 0.40, which means that 40% of the atoms are parent isotopes and 60% are daughter isotopes. Since the material started with 100% parent atoms, it has undergone one half-life for the parent isotope to decrease to 40%. Therefore, between 1 and 2 half-lives have elapsed since the material was 100% parent atoms.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Select the only chronostratigraphic unit below.
- A.
Pleistocene Epoch
- B.
Silurian System
- C.
Cambrian Period
- D.
Cenozoic Era
- E.
Phanerozoic Eon
Correct Answer
B. Silurian SystemExplanation
The Silurian System is the only chronostratigraphic unit listed among the options. Chronostratigraphy is the branch of geology that deals with the relative timing and correlation of rock layers based on their fossil content and age. The Pleistocene Epoch, Cambrian Period, Cenozoic Era, and Phanerozoic Eon are all divisions of geologic time, but they are not specific units within the chronostratigraphic hierarchy. Therefore, the Silurian System is the correct answer as it represents a specific chronostratigraphic unit.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A continental shield is part of a(n) _______________.
- A.
Depositional environment
- B.
Orogenic belt
- C.
Continental shelf
- D.
Craton
- E.
Continental platform
Correct Answer
D. CratonExplanation
A continental shield is a large, stable, and ancient portion of a continent's crust that has not undergone significant tectonic activity or deformation for a long time. It is characterized by thick, stable, and relatively flat layers of igneous and metamorphic rocks. The term "craton" is used to describe these ancient and stable continental shields. Therefore, the correct answer is craton.Rate this question:
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- 16.
An example of a marine environment of deposition is __________.
- A.
Glacial lake
- B.
River channel
- C.
Continental shelf
- D.
Wind-blown dune
- E.
Alluvial fan
Correct Answer
C. Continental shelfExplanation
A continental shelf is an example of a marine environment of deposition. It is a gently sloping underwater landmass that extends from the edge of a continent to the continental slope. Sediments, such as sand, silt, and clay, are transported by rivers and currents and deposited on the continental shelf. These sediments accumulate over time, forming layers of sedimentary rock. The continental shelf is an important habitat for marine life and is also a valuable source of oil, gas, and minerals.Rate this question:
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- 17.
An eolian environment is a(n) _____________.
- A.
Lake
- B.
Delta
- C.
Alluvial fan
- D.
Deep marine
- E.
Wind-blown dune
Correct Answer
E. Wind-blown duneExplanation
An eolian environment refers to a geological setting that is influenced by wind processes. In this context, a wind-blown dune is the most appropriate option as it directly relates to the action of wind shaping and depositing sand particles to form dunes. The other options, such as lake, delta, alluvial fan, and deep marine, do not specifically pertain to wind-driven processes and are therefore not suitable explanations for an eolian environment.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Walther's principle does NOT help us understand ______________.
- A.
Chronostratigraphic units
- B.
Fining upward successions
- C.
Onlap and offlap sequences
- D.
Transgressions and regressions
- E.
Biofacies and lithofacies
Correct Answer
E. Biofacies and lithofaciesExplanation
Walther's principle, also known as the principle of facies continuity, states that the vertical succession of sedimentary rocks reflects lateral changes in depositional environments. It helps us understand chronostratigraphic units, fining upward successions, onlap and offlap sequences, and transgressions and regressions. However, it does not specifically address the understanding of biofacies and lithofacies, which are more related to the study of fossil assemblages and rock types, respectively.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Select the vertical sequence that indicates regression.
- A.
Shale over sandstone
- B.
Limestone over conglomerate
- C.
Sandstone over conglomerate
- D.
Sandstone over shale
- E.
Shale over conglomerate
Correct Answer
D. Sandstone over shaleExplanation
The correct answer is "sandstone over shale". This is because sandstone is typically formed from the erosion and deposition of sand grains, which can occur over a pre-existing layer of shale. The process of sandstone being deposited on top of shale indicates a regression in the depositional environment, as the coarser sand grains settle on top of the finer shale.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The part of a rock body that has characteristics from which we can infer the depositional environments is called a __________.
- A.
Facies
- B.
Member
- C.
Group
- D.
Formation
- E.
Time-rock unit
Correct Answer
A. FaciesExplanation
A facies refers to a specific set of characteristics within a rock body that can provide information about the environment in which the rock was deposited. These characteristics can include sediment type, grain size, fossils, and sedimentary structures. By studying the facies, geologists can make inferences about the conditions in which the rock formed, such as the presence of water, the energy of the environment, and the proximity to other landforms. Therefore, a facies is an important tool for understanding the depositional environments of rocks.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Fossils that are abundant, widely dispersed and derived from organisms that lived during a relatively shore span of geologic time are _______________.
- A.
Reworked fossils
- B.
Haploid
- C.
Index fossils
- D.
Trace fossils
- E.
Unaltered fossils
Correct Answer
C. Index fossilsExplanation
Index fossils are fossils that are abundant, widely dispersed, and derived from organisms that lived during a relatively short span of geologic time. These fossils are used by scientists as indicators or "index" fossils to determine the age of rock layers and correlate them with other rock formations. They are useful because they have a wide geographic distribution and existed for a short period, making them easily recognizable and useful for dating and correlating rocks in different locations.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The interval between the first and last appearance of a species constitutes the ___________.
- A.
Extinction rate
- B.
Geologic time
- C.
Geologic range
- D.
Rate of evolution
- E.
Relative geologic age
Correct Answer
C. Geologic rangeExplanation
The interval between the first and last appearance of a species constitutes the geologic range. This refers to the span of time during which a particular species is known to have existed based on fossil records. It provides important information about the duration and temporal distribution of a species in the geological record.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A type of geologic evidence of past glaciation is called __________.
- A.
Paleomagnetism
- B.
Tillites
- C.
Evaporites
- D.
Coal seams
- E.
Annual rings
Correct Answer
B. TillitesExplanation
Tillites are a type of geologic evidence of past glaciation. They are sedimentary rocks that are formed from the consolidation of glacial till, which is a mixture of unsorted and unstratified materials that are deposited by glaciers. Tillites often contain a variety of different rock fragments, including boulders, pebbles, and sand, that were transported and deposited by glaciers. The presence of tillites indicates that an area was once covered by a glacier, providing evidence of past glaciation.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A type of reverse fault is _________.
- A.
Strike-slip
- B.
Normal
- C.
Thrust
- D.
Transform
- E.
Oblique
Correct Answer
C. ThrustExplanation
A thrust fault is a type of reverse fault where the hanging wall moves up and over the footwall. This occurs when compressional forces cause rocks to be pushed together, resulting in the upper block being pushed upward and over the lower block. This type of fault is commonly found in areas where tectonic plates are colliding, such as mountain ranges.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Select the item below most closely associated with a convergent boundary.
- A.
Lateral faults
- B.
Subduction zone
- C.
Hot spots
- D.
Midoceanic ridge
- E.
Continental rifting
Correct Answer
B. Subduction zoneExplanation
A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates collide. A subduction zone occurs when one plate is forced beneath the other, leading to the formation of a deep trench. This process is associated with the convergence of plates and the creation of volcanic activity and earthquakes. Therefore, a subduction zone is most closely associated with a convergent boundary.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Continental mountain ranges are formed by __________.
- A.
Continental-continental crustal convergence
- B.
Oceanic-oceanic crustal convergence
- C.
Transform boundaries
- D.
Divergent boundaries in oceans
- E.
Divergent boundaries under continents
Correct Answer
A. Continental-continental crustal convergenceExplanation
Continental mountain ranges are formed by continental-continental crustal convergence. This occurs when two continental plates collide, causing the crust to buckle and fold. The collision forces the crust upwards, creating mountain ranges. Examples of such mountain ranges include the Himalayas and the Alps.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A type of symmetrical, radial fold with the oldest rock in the center is ___________.
- A.
Basin
- B.
Monocline
- C.
Syncline
- D.
Dome
- E.
Anticline
Correct Answer
E. AnticlineExplanation
An anticline is a type of symmetrical, radial fold where the oldest rock is found in the center. This means that the rock layers have been folded upward, creating an arch-like structure with the oldest rocks at the core. The term "anticline" comes from the Latin words "anti" meaning opposite and "clinare" meaning to bend, indicating the opposite bending of the rock layers.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A fault wherein one side is pushed up (goes against gravity) is called _______.
- A.
Reverse
- B.
Normal
- C.
Right lateral
- D.
Left lateral
- E.
Transform
Correct Answer
A. ReverseExplanation
A fault wherein one side is pushed up (goes against gravity) is called "reverse." In a reverse fault, the hanging wall moves upward relative to the footwall, usually caused by compressional forces. This type of fault is commonly associated with convergent plate boundaries and can create mountain ranges or uplifted areas.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Trace fossils are ___________.
- A.
Fossilized imprints of soft-bodied animals or plants
- B.
Segmented worms that existed during the late Precambrian
- C.
Fossilized tracks, trails, burrows and nests made by ancient animals
- D.
Small bits or remnants of the hard body parts of ancient marine animals
- E.
The thin layer of carbon left behind from plant material
Correct Answer
C. Fossilized tracks, trails, burrows and nests made by ancient animalsExplanation
Trace fossils are fossilized tracks, trails, burrows, and nests made by ancient animals. These fossils provide evidence of the behavior and activities of extinct organisms, rather than preserving their actual physical remains. They can give insights into the locomotion, feeding habits, and social interactions of these ancient animals. Examples of trace fossils include footprints, worm burrows, and dinosaur nests.Rate this question:
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- 30.
__________________ would not enhance the preservation of fossil remains.
- A.
Rapid burial by sediments or extrusive materials
- B.
Hard parts such as bones, teeth and shells
- C.
Presence of oxygen-tolerant bacteria
- D.
Burial in a low-oxygen environment
- E.
Having a metamorphic rock nearby
Correct Answer
E. Having a metamorphic rock nearbyExplanation
Having a metamorphic rock nearby would not enhance the preservation of fossil remains. This is because metamorphic rocks are formed through intense heat and pressure, which can cause the destruction or alteration of any fossils that may be present. Fossils are typically preserved in sedimentary rocks, where the rapid burial by sediments or extrusive materials can protect them from decay and damage. Additionally, the presence of oxygen-tolerant bacteria and burial in a low-oxygen environment can also contribute to the preservation of fossil remains. However, the proximity of a metamorphic rock would not have any positive effect on the preservation process.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Walther's law states that _________________.
- A.
When depositional environments migrate laterally, sediments of one environment come to lie on top of sediments of an adjacent environment
- B.
When depositional environments migrate laterally, sediments of one environment do not come in contact with sediments of an adjacent environment
- C.
The present is the key to the past
- D.
Sediments from one depositional environment are not similar to sediments of another adjacent environment
- E.
Small streams meet to form larger streams, which in turn flow into still larger rivers
Correct Answer
A. When depositional environments migrate laterally, sediments of one environment come to lie on top of sediments of an adjacent environmentExplanation
Walther's law states that when depositional environments migrate laterally, sediments of one environment come to lie on top of sediments of an adjacent environment. This means that as environments shift horizontally, the sediments deposited in one environment will stack on top of the sediments of the adjacent environment. This stacking of sediments provides evidence of the changing environmental conditions over time and can be used to interpret the geological history of an area.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Filling in of many small pores in a fossil by silica, etc. is called ___________.
- A.
Replacement
- B.
Carbonization
- C.
Permineralization
- D.
Mold making
- E.
Cast making
Correct Answer
C. PermineralizationExplanation
Permineralization refers to the process where many small pores in a fossil are filled in by substances like silica. This process occurs over time as minerals seep into the pores and harden, preserving the original structure of the fossil. This can result in the formation of a fossil that is made up of both the original organic material and the minerals that have replaced it.Rate this question:
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- 33.
A biozone that represents ranges of several coexisting tax is a(n) _________.
- A.
Range zone
- B.
Assemblage zone
- C.
Concurrent range zone
- D.
Stage
- E.
Series
Correct Answer
B. Assemblage zoneExplanation
An assemblage zone refers to a biozone that represents the ranges of several coexisting taxa. It is a term used in paleontology to describe a specific time period or geographic area where multiple species or groups of organisms are found together. This zone provides valuable information about the coexistence and interactions of different taxa during a particular time period, allowing scientists to study the dynamics of ancient ecosystems.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Means that soft tissues are preserved as this films of carbon.
- A.
Replacement
- B.
Molds and casts
- C.
Permineralization
- D.
Petrifaction
- E.
Carbonization
Correct Answer
E. CarbonizationExplanation
Carbonization refers to the process in which organic material, such as soft tissues, is preserved as a film of carbon. This occurs when organic matter is subjected to high heat and pressure, causing the volatile elements to be driven off and leaving behind a carbon residue. In the context of the question, carbonization is the most suitable explanation for the preservation of soft tissues as films of carbon.Rate this question:
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- 35.
What is the difference between the relative scale and the absolute scale of geologic time?
- A.
The relative scale of geologic time is based on superposition and fossil succession, whereas radiometric dating provides an absolute scale in which events are measured in years.
- B.
The relative scale of geologic time is based on absolute scale in which events are measured in years, whereas absolute dating provides superposition and fossil succession.
- C.
The relative scale of geologic time is based on sedimentary archives, whereas absolute dating provides a final comparison between two geological entities.
- D.
The relative scale of geologic time is based on event stratigraphy and marker beds, whereas absolute dating provides a numeric scale in which events are measured by isotopes and fossils.
- E.
There is no difference between the relative scale and the absolute scale of geologic time.
Correct Answer
A. The relative scale of geologic time is based on superposition and fossil succession, whereas radiometric dating provides an absolute scale in which events are measured in years.Explanation
The relative scale of geologic time is based on the principles of superposition and fossil succession, which allow geologists to determine the relative ages of rock layers and the fossils they contain. This scale does not provide specific dates for events, but rather a relative order of when they occurred. On the other hand, radiometric dating provides an absolute scale of geologic time by using the decay of radioactive isotopes to determine the actual ages of rocks and events in years. This method allows for more precise dating and is based on the decay rates of isotopes found in rocks and minerals.Rate this question:
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