Plate Tectonics 1-a, 1-b, 2-a, 2-b
This summative assessment will evaluate your knowledge of Plate Techtonics. Vocabulary, essential questions and concepts will be assessed.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
According to the theory of plate tectonics
- A.
The asthensophere is divided into plates
- B.
The lithosphere is divided into plates
- C.
The asthenosphere moves over the lithosphere
- D.
The asthenosphere is strong and rigid
Correct Answer
B. The lithosphere is divided into platesExplanation
The correct answer is "the lithosphere is divided into plates". The theory of plate tectonics states that the Earth's lithosphere, which includes the crust and upper mantle, is divided into several large and small plates. These plates are constantly moving and interacting with each other, leading to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges. This concept helps explain the distribution of continents, ocean basins, and the occurrence of seismic and volcanic activity along plate boundaries.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The lithospheric plates move an average of _______.
- A.
5 inches per year
- B.
50 inches per year
- C.
5 centimeters per year
- D.
50 centimeters per year
Correct Answer
C. 5 centimeters per yearExplanation
The lithospheric plates move an average of 5 centimeters per year. This is a relatively slow movement, but over long periods of time, it can lead to significant changes in the Earth's surface. Plate tectonics is the theory that explains the movement of these plates, which are made up of the Earth's crust and uppermost part of the mantle. The movement of these plates is driven by convection currents in the mantle, causing them to collide, separate, or slide past each other. This movement can result in various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A tectonic plate consists of ______ .
- A.
The crust and uppermost mantle
- B.
The oceanic and continental crust only
- C.
The crust and entire mantle
Correct Answer
A. The crust and uppermost mantleExplanation
A tectonic plate is made up of the crust and the uppermost mantle. The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, while the uppermost mantle is the layer directly beneath the crust. These two layers together form the tectonic plate, which is responsible for the movement and interaction of the Earth's lithosphere.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What kind of plate boundary occurs where two plates grind past each other without destroying or producing new lithospheric crust?
- A.
Divergent boundary
- B.
Convergent boundary
- C.
Transform fault boundary
Correct Answer
C. Transform fault boundaryExplanation
A transform fault boundary occurs where two plates grind past each other without destroying or producing new lithospheric crust. This type of boundary is characterized by horizontal movement, where the plates slide past each other in opposite directions. Transform boundaries often result in earthquakes due to the friction and stress caused by the plates' movement. Unlike divergent boundaries, where new crust is created, and convergent boundaries, where crust is destroyed, transform fault boundaries do not involve any significant crustal formation or destruction.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What type of boundary occurs where two plates move together, causing one plate to descend into the mantle beneath the other plate?
- A.
Transform fault boundary
- B.
Divergent boundary
- C.
Convergent boundary
Correct Answer
C. Convergent boundaryExplanation
A convergent boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move towards each other, causing one plate to descend into the mantle beneath the other plate. This process is known as subduction and can result in the formation of mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and earthquakes.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The surface along which rocks break and slide past each other is called?
- A.
Hanging wall
- B.
Fault
- C.
Footwall
- D.
Compression
Correct Answer
B. FaultExplanation
A fault is a surface along which rocks break and slide past each other. This movement is caused by the build-up of stress in the Earth's crust, which eventually exceeds the strength of the rocks, leading to their displacement. Faults can occur due to various geological processes such as tectonic plate movements or volcanic activity. They play a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface and are responsible for earthquakes and the formation of mountains.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How do tectonic plates fit together?
- A.
Like a layer cake
- B.
Like a jigsaw puzzle
- C.
Like a stack of books
- D.
Like a model car
Correct Answer
B. Like a jigsaw puzzleExplanation
Tectonic plates fit together like a jigsaw puzzle because they have irregular shapes with edges that interlock, just like the pieces of a puzzle. The movement of these plates causes them to collide, slide past each other, or separate, resulting in various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains. This analogy helps to visualize the complex interactions and arrangements of the Earth's tectonic plates.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What causes seismic waves?
- A.
Tidal Wave
- B.
Volcanoes
- C.
Earthquakes
- D.
Tornadoes
Correct Answer
C. EarthquakesExplanation
Seismic waves are caused by earthquakes. When there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to the movement of tectonic plates, it creates seismic waves that travel through the Earth. These waves can cause the ground to shake and result in the destructive effects of an earthquake. Tidal waves, volcanoes, and tornadoes do not directly cause seismic waves, making earthquakes the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What do we call the amount of force placed on something?
- A.
Drift
- B.
Uplift
- C.
Bending
- D.
Stress
Correct Answer
D. StressExplanation
Stress refers to the amount of force or pressure exerted on an object or material. It measures the internal resistance of an object to deformation or strain caused by external forces. Stress can be caused by various factors such as compression, tension, or shear forces. It is an important concept in physics and engineering as it helps determine the strength and stability of structures and materials.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What do scientists use to measure teconic plate movement?
- A.
Clinometers
- B.
Global positioning systems (GPS)
- C.
Telescopes
- D.
Seismographs
Correct Answer
B. Global positioning systems (GPS)Explanation
Scientists use global positioning systems (GPS) to measure tectonic plate movement. GPS technology allows scientists to track the precise location of different points on the Earth's surface. By monitoring the movement of these points over time, scientists can determine the speed and direction of tectonic plate movement. This information is crucial for understanding and predicting earthquakes, volcanic activity, and other geological phenomena. Clinometers measure angles, telescopes are used for observing distant objects, and seismographs measure seismic waves, but they are not specifically used for measuring tectonic plate movement.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The deep interior of the Earth can be mapped using
- A.
Seismic waves
- B.
Sonar
- C.
Information from drilling expeditions
- D.
Ocean waves
Correct Answer
A. Seismic wavesExplanation
Seismic waves are the correct answer because they are vibrations that travel through the Earth's interior and can be used to map its deep interior. Seismic waves are generated by earthquakes or explosions and their behavior and characteristics can be studied to gain information about the Earth's composition, structure, and boundaries of different layers. This technique, known as seismology, is widely used to study the Earth's interior and has provided valuable insights into its geological processes and features. Sonar is used to map the ocean floor, drilling expeditions provide information about the Earth's crust, and ocean waves are not suitable for mapping the deep interior of the Earth.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Tectonic plates consist of
- A.
Continental crust
- B.
Oceanic crust
- C.
Both continental and oceanic crust
- D.
Mesosphere
Correct Answer
C. Both continental and oceanic crustExplanation
Tectonic plates are large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that fit together like a puzzle. These plates are made up of both continental and oceanic crust. Continental crust is the thicker, less dense crust that forms the continents, while oceanic crust is the thinner, denser crust that forms the ocean floor. The interaction between these two types of crust creates various geological features such as mountains, trenches, and earthquakes. Therefore, the correct answer is both continental and oceanic crust.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Take a look at this diagram. Which boundary does this represent?
- A.
Transform fault
- B.
Convergent
- C.
Divergent
Correct Answer
B. ConvergentExplanation
The diagram represents a convergent boundary. This type of boundary occurs when two tectonic plates collide. In this process, one plate is forced beneath the other, forming a subduction zone. This collision can result in the formation of mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and the creation of deep ocean trenches.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Take a look at this diagram. What type of boundary does this represent?
- A.
Divergent
- B.
Transform-fault
- C.
Convergent
Correct Answer
C. ConvergentExplanation
The diagram represents a convergent boundary. In this type of boundary, two tectonic plates are moving towards each other. This movement can result in the collision of the plates, causing the formation of mountains, volcanic activity, and the subduction of one plate beneath the other. This boundary is characterized by intense geological activity and can lead to the creation of various landforms such as mountain ranges and trenches.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Take a look at this diagram. What boundary type does this represent?
- A.
Divergent
- B.
Convergent
- C.
Transform-fault
Correct Answer
C. Transform-faultExplanation
The diagram represents a transform-fault boundary. This type of boundary occurs when two tectonic plates slide horizontally past each other. This movement can cause earthquakes, as the plates are locked and then suddenly slip, releasing energy. Transform-fault boundaries are commonly found along mid-ocean ridges and can be identified by the presence of strike-slip faults.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Why is it RARE that volcanoes form along transform boundaries?
- A.
No new magma is formed
- B.
Transform boundaries tend to be cooler than convergent boundaries
- C.
The oceanic crust is thicker than continental crust
Correct Answer
A. No new magma is formedExplanation
Volcanoes form when there is an eruption of magma from the Earth's mantle onto the surface. However, along transform boundaries, the tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, causing shearing and intense friction. This type of movement does not allow for the creation of new magma, as there is no subduction or collision of plates. Therefore, it is rare for volcanoes to form along transform boundaries due to the absence of new magma formation.Rate this question:
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- 17.
As you move away from a mid-ocean ridge (divergent boundary) the oceanic crust becomes increasingly _____________.
- A.
Older
- B.
Younger
- C.
Darker in color
- D.
Prettier
Correct Answer
A. OlderExplanation
As you move away from a mid-ocean ridge, the oceanic crust becomes increasingly older. This is because at mid-ocean ridges, new crust is constantly being formed through volcanic activity and spreading apart of tectonic plates. As the crust moves away from the ridge, it gets older as it is pushed further away from the source of new crust formation.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Two characteristics that make Oceanic Crust subduct under Continental Crust. Choose the BEST 2 answers.
- A.
Oceanic crust is thinner
- B.
Oceanic crust has more iron
- C.
Oceanic crust has a higher density.
- D.
Oceanic crust is older than continental crust
Correct Answer(s)
A. Oceanic crust is thinner
C. Oceanic crust has a higher density.Explanation
The two characteristics that make Oceanic Crust subduct under Continental Crust are that oceanic crust is thinner and has a higher density. The thinner crust allows it to slide beneath the thicker continental crust, while the higher density causes it to sink into the mantle during subduction.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Mountains can form at a CONVERGENT BOUNDARY.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Mountains can form at a convergent boundary because this is where two tectonic plates collide. When two plates collide, the denser oceanic plate is forced beneath the less dense continental plate in a process called subduction. The subduction causes intense pressure and heat, leading to the melting of rocks and the formation of magma. This magma then rises to the surface, creating volcanic activity and the formation of mountains. Examples of mountain ranges formed at convergent boundaries include the Himalayas and the Andes.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Volcanoes can form at TRANSFORM BOUNDARIES.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Volcanoes do not form at transform boundaries. Transform boundaries are where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. Volcanoes typically form at convergent boundaries, where two plates collide, or at divergent boundaries, where two plates move apart.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Take a look at this Image. Based upon the evidence presented, which of the following is closer to the surface and is probably cooler in nature.
- A.
Mantle
- B.
Core
- C.
Aesthenosphere
Correct Answer
C. AesthenosphereExplanation
Based on the evidence presented in the image, the aesthenosphere is closer to the surface and is probably cooler in nature. This can be inferred because the image shows a layer labeled as "aesthenosphere" located above the mantle and core. Since the aesthenosphere is closer to the surface compared to the mantle and core, it is likely to have a lower temperature.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Take a look at this image. Based upon what you see, What type(s) of boundaries are being displayed?
- A.
Transform-fault
- B.
Convergent
- C.
Divergent
Correct Answer(s)
B. Convergent
C. DivergentExplanation
The image shows two types of boundaries: convergent and divergent. A convergent boundary occurs when two tectonic plates collide and move towards each other, resulting in the formation of mountains, trenches, and volcanoes. On the other hand, a divergent boundary is formed when two plates move away from each other, causing the creation of new crust through volcanic activity. The image likely displays evidence of both types of boundaries based on the geological features present.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Take a look at this IMAGE. What is taking place at the boundary between the Oceanic Crust and the Continental Crust ?
- A.
Seafloor spreading
- B.
Subduction
- C.
New volcano being formed
Correct Answer
B. SubductionExplanation
Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate slides beneath another plate at a convergent boundary. In this case, the oceanic crust is denser than the continental crust, causing it to subduct beneath the continental crust. This process results in the formation of deep ocean trenches and can lead to volcanic activity and the formation of mountain ranges. Therefore, subduction is the most likely process occurring at the boundary between the Oceanic Crust and the Continental Crust.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Take a look at this image. This Boundary is an example of a transform-fault boundary.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
This image shows a boundary where two tectonic plates are sliding past each other horizontally. This type of boundary is known as a transform-fault boundary. At this boundary, there is a lot of seismic activity, as the plates grind against each other. This is characteristic of transform-fault boundaries, making the statement "This Boundary is an example of a transform-fault boundary" true.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Take a look at this image. Based upon what you see, choose the answers(s) that best describe characteristics of this image.
- A.
Seafloor spreading
- B.
Mid-ocean ridge
- C.
Older rocks are at the extreme left and right away from the ridge
- D.
The magnetic poles of the ocean crust have reversed several times
- E.
This is a convergent boundary
- F.
This is a divergent boundary
- G.
This is a transform-fault boundary
Correct Answer(s)
A. Seafloor spreading
B. Mid-ocean ridge
C. Older rocks are at the extreme left and right away from the ridge
D. The magnetic poles of the ocean crust have reversed several times
F. This is a divergent boundaryExplanation
The image shows a mid-ocean ridge, which is a characteristic feature of seafloor spreading. The older rocks are located at the extreme left and right away from the ridge, indicating the process of seafloor spreading. The fact that the magnetic poles of the ocean crust have reversed several times is also consistent with seafloor spreading. Additionally, the image shows the presence of a divergent boundary, where the seafloor is spreading apart. Therefore, the given answer correctly describes the characteristics of the image.Rate this question:
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.jpg "Take a look at this image. Based upon what you see, What type(s) of boundaries are being displayed?")
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