Test 3: Running Water, Plate Tectonics, And The Earth's Interior
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This quiz is a preparatory study guide for the Earth Science I Test 3. The topics covered include running water, plate tectonics, the earth's interior, deformation, continental evolution, and mountain building.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What 3 things determine the velocity of a stream?
- A.
Gradient, sediment capacity, competence
- B.
Channel shape, size, discharge, flood plain size
- C.
Gradient, channel shape/size, discharge
- D.
Discharge, stream age, drainage pattern
Correct Answer
C. Gradient, channel shape/size, dischargeExplanation
The velocity of a stream is determined by three factors: gradient, channel shape/size, and discharge. Gradient refers to the slope of the streambed, which affects the speed of the water flow. Channel shape and size also play a role in determining velocity as they influence the amount of friction between the water and the streambed. A wider and deeper channel allows for faster water flow. Finally, discharge, which is the volume of water flowing through the stream, also affects velocity. A higher discharge generally leads to a higher velocity.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A stream that flows slowly and all together is said to have _________.
- A.
Turbulent flow
- B.
Laminar flow
- C.
Sheet flow
- D.
Channel flow
Correct Answer
B. Laminar flowExplanation
Laminar flow refers to a smooth and orderly flow of a stream, where the fluid moves in parallel layers without any disruptions or mixing. In this type of flow, the velocity of the fluid remains constant at any given point, and there is minimal turbulence or chaotic movement. Laminar flow is typically observed in low-viscosity fluids and at low velocities. This term is used to describe a stream that flows slowly and all together, implying a calm and uniform flow pattern.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The river with the biggest discharge in the world is the __________.
- A.
Yangtze River
- B.
Nile River
- C.
Mississippi River
- D.
Amazon River
Correct Answer
D. Amazon RiverExplanation
The Amazon River is the correct answer because it has the largest discharge in the world. Discharge refers to the volume of water that flows through a river at a given point. The Amazon River carries the largest amount of water compared to any other river, making it the river with the biggest discharge.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The Mississippi River discharges enough water in one day to supply all of New York City's water needs for how many years?
- A.
10 years
- B.
1 year
- C.
2 years
- D.
5 years
Correct Answer
B. 1 yearExplanation
The Mississippi River discharges a massive amount of water every day. The fact that this amount is enough to supply all of New York City's water needs for one year suggests that the river's water supply is abundant and could potentially meet the needs of a large population for an extended period of time.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A youth-age stream can erode its channel past the temporary base level.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
A youth-age stream refers to a stream that is in the early stages of its development. During this stage, the stream has a high velocity and is capable of eroding its channel. The temporary base level refers to a point where the stream can no longer erode its channel further due to an obstacle or change in the landscape. Therefore, it is true that a youth-age stream can erode its channel past the temporary base level.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What is the most common way that streams can move sediments?
- A.
Along the bottom
- B.
In suspension
- C.
Floating on the top
- D.
In solution
Correct Answer
B. In suspensionExplanation
Streams can move sediments in suspension, which means that the sediments are carried within the water column. This occurs when the velocity of the stream is high enough to keep the sediments suspended and prevent them from settling to the bottom. As the water flows, it exerts a force on the sediments, allowing them to be transported downstream. This is the most common way that streams transport sediments, as it allows for a wide range of particle sizes to be carried and can result in significant erosion and deposition along the stream channel.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Of the 750 million tons of sediments carried by the Mississippi River annually, how much of this is in solution?
- A.
500 million tons
- B.
50 million tons
- C.
200 million tons
- D.
100 million tons
Correct Answer
C. 200 million tonsExplanation
The correct answer is 200 million tons. This means that out of the 750 million tons of sediments carried by the Mississippi River annually, 200 million tons are in solution. This refers to the sediments that are dissolved or suspended in the water, rather than being deposited as solid particles.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The three forms of bed load found when streams carry sediments are rolling, sliding, and ________.
- A.
Dendritic
- B.
Floating
- C.
Settling
- D.
Saltation
Correct Answer
D. SaltationExplanation
When streams carry sediments, the three forms of bed load are rolling, sliding, and saltation. Rolling occurs when sediment particles are too large and heavy to be lifted by the flow of water, so they roll along the streambed. Sliding happens when smaller sediment particles slide or glide along the streambed. Saltation is the process in which smaller sediment particles are lifted and transported in a series of short jumps or bounces along the streambed. These three forms of bed load contribute to the overall movement and transportation of sediments in streams.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A stream that meanders typically has a faster velocity than a straight stream.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A stream that meanders typically has a slower velocity than a straight stream. This is because meandering streams have a winding, curved path with many bends and loops, which causes the water to slow down as it navigates through these curves. In contrast, a straight stream has a more direct path, allowing the water to flow more swiftly. Therefore, the statement that a meandering stream has a faster velocity than a straight stream is false.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The maximum amount of solid particles a stream can transport is called its _________.
- A.
Capacity
- B.
Competence
- C.
Discharge
- D.
Base level
Correct Answer
A. CapacityExplanation
The maximum amount of solid particles a stream can transport is called its capacity. Capacity refers to the total amount of sediment that a stream can carry, which is influenced by factors such as stream velocity, gradient, and particle size. It represents the maximum load that a stream can transport and is an important concept in understanding the erosional and depositional processes of streams.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What sediment is typically deposited last in a stream?
- A.
Silt
- B.
Sand
- C.
Clay
- D.
Quartz
Correct Answer
C. ClayExplanation
Clay is typically deposited last in a stream because it has the smallest particle size and is the lightest sediment. As the stream slows down, it loses its ability to carry larger particles like sand and silt, which settle out first. Clay particles are so small and lightweight that they remain suspended in the water for longer periods of time and are carried further downstream before finally settling. This is why clay is usually the last sediment to be deposited in a stream.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The well-sorted materials deposited by a stream are called what?
- A.
Detritus
- B.
Alluvium
- C.
Bars
- D.
Bottom-set beds
Correct Answer
B. AlluviumExplanation
Alluvium refers to the well-sorted materials that are deposited by a stream. This can include sediments such as sand, silt, and clay that are transported and then settled by the flowing water. Alluvium is commonly found in river valleys and floodplains, where the stream's velocity decreases, allowing the sediments to settle and accumulate. It is an important source of fertile soil and is often used for agriculture.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A _________ is found when bars deposited in a stream cause multiple channels to form.
- A.
Yazoo tributary
- B.
Braided pattern
- C.
Natural levee
- D.
Transgression
Correct Answer
B. Braided patternExplanation
A braided pattern is formed when bars deposited in a stream cause multiple channels to form. This occurs when the stream has a high sediment load and the flow is variable. The bars divide the flow into multiple smaller channels, creating a braided appearance. This pattern is commonly seen in rivers with steep gradients and coarse sediment, such as mountain streams or glacial meltwater channels.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A sharp, angular drainage pattern formed by broken underlying rock is called what?
- A.
Dendritic pattern
- B.
Trellis pattern
- C.
Deranged pattern
- D.
Rectangular pattern
Correct Answer
D. Rectangular patternExplanation
A rectangular pattern is formed when a drainage system follows the joints and fractures in the underlying rock, creating sharp, right-angled bends and straight segments. This pattern is typically seen in areas where the rock layers have been heavily faulted or jointed, causing the water to flow along these linear features. The rectangular pattern is characterized by a network of interconnected channels that resemble a grid-like pattern when viewed from above.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A stream that has become wider than its meander belt, developed natural levees, and ceases to enlarge its flood plain is in its _________ stage.
- A.
Youth
- B.
Adolescent
- C.
Mature
- D.
Old age
Correct Answer
D. Old ageExplanation
When a stream becomes wider than its meander belt, develops natural levees, and stops expanding its floodplain, it indicates that the stream has reached its old age stage. At this stage, the stream has eroded its banks and built up natural levees, resulting in a wider channel. The floodplain is no longer being enlarged because the stream has stabilized and is no longer actively meandering or eroding its surroundings. This signifies that the stream has reached a mature and stable state in its geological development.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The earth's crust is thought to be made up ___% basalt and ___% granite.
- A.
66, 34
- B.
50, 50
- C.
85, 15
- D.
40, 60
Correct Answer
A. 66, 34Explanation
The correct answer is 66% basalt and 34% granite. This is because basalt is the most common rock in the Earth's crust, making up a significant portion of it. Granite, on the other hand, is less abundant but still present in smaller amounts. The percentages provided reflect this distribution of basalt and granite in the Earth's crust.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The middle layer within the mantle is called the __________.
- A.
Lithosphere
- B.
Asthenosphere
- C.
Isostatic layer
- D.
Epicenter
Correct Answer
B. AsthenosphereExplanation
The asthenosphere is the correct answer because it is the middle layer within the mantle. The asthenosphere is a partially molten and semi-fluid layer that lies beneath the lithosphere. It is responsible for the movement of tectonic plates and is characterized by its ability to flow slowly over long periods of time. The lithosphere, isostatic layer, and epicenter are not middle layers within the mantle, making them incorrect options.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Diamonds are generally found deep in the earth's mantle alongside what mineral?
- A.
Quartz
- B.
Myotite
- C.
Kimberlite
- D.
Olivene
Correct Answer
C. KimberliteExplanation
Kimberlite is the correct answer because it is a type of volcanic rock that is commonly associated with diamond deposits. Diamonds are formed deep in the earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions, and they are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. Kimberlite is the volcanic rock that often contains these diamonds, making it an important indicator mineral for diamond exploration.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What was the area of the super-continent Pangaea that formed the lower hemisphere called?
- A.
Laurasia
- B.
Gondwana
- C.
Eurasia
- D.
Marianas
Correct Answer
B. GondwanaExplanation
Gondwana was the super-continent that formed the lower hemisphere of Pangaea. It included present-day South America, Africa, India, Australia, and Antarctica. This landmass was located in the southern hemisphere and eventually broke apart to form the continents we know today.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What is the plate on the earth that is NOT shifting, but rotating?
- A.
Antarctic plate
- B.
Eurasian plate
- C.
Pacific plate
- D.
Nazca plate
Correct Answer
A. Antarctic plateExplanation
The Antarctic plate is the correct answer because it is the only plate on Earth that is not shifting, but rotating. Unlike the other plates mentioned, which are all involved in various tectonic activities and shifting, the Antarctic plate remains relatively stable and rotates in place. This is due to its location near the South Pole, where it is not influenced by major tectonic forces like subduction or collision.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Most mountain ranges are formed by which force?
- A.
Subduction
- B.
Continental upwarp
- C.
Diastrophism
- D.
Sea floor spreading
Correct Answer
C. DiastrophismExplanation
Diastrophism is the correct answer because it refers to the forces that cause deformation of the Earth's crust, leading to the formation of mountain ranges. These forces can include folding, faulting, and uplifting, which result in the creation of large-scale geological structures like mountains. Subduction, continental upwarp, and sea floor spreading are not directly responsible for the formation of most mountain ranges, making them incorrect choices.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What evidence do we have that the continents ARE actually moving?
- A.
The formation of the Hawaiian islands
- B.
The presence of the mid-Atlantic ridge
- C.
None of the above
- D.
Both A and B
Correct Answer
D. Both A and BExplanation
Both the formation of the Hawaiian islands and the presence of the mid-Atlantic ridge provide evidence that the continents are actually moving. The formation of the Hawaiian islands is attributed to a hot spot in the Earth's mantle, where molten material rises and creates new land. As the Pacific tectonic plate moves over this hot spot, a chain of islands is formed. The presence of the mid-Atlantic ridge indicates that new crust is being created at the divergent plate boundary, where the North American and Eurasian plates are moving apart. This evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics and continental drift, showing that the continents are constantly in motion.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What direction is the pacific plate moving?
- A.
Northeast
- B.
Northwest
- C.
West
- D.
Southeast
Correct Answer
B. NorthwestExplanation
The correct answer is Northwest. The Pacific Plate is moving in a northwest direction. This movement is part of the larger tectonic activity in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Pacific Plate is colliding with and sliding past other tectonic plates, such as the North American Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This movement is responsible for the formation of various geological features, such as the Pacific Ocean's trenches, volcanic activity, and the creation of mountain ranges, such as the Andes and the Rocky Mountains.Rate this question:
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- 24.
All faults ARE plate boundaries.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement "All faults ARE plate boundaries" is false. While it is true that many faults occur along plate boundaries, not all faults are located at plate boundaries. Faults can also occur within a single tectonic plate, such as in areas of intraplate seismic activity. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The area along the continents where sediments are deposited from rivers is called the _______.
- A.
Continental rise
- B.
Continental slope
- C.
Continental shelf
- D.
Abyssal plane
Correct Answer
A. Continental riseExplanation
The continental rise is the correct answer because it refers to the area along the continents where sediments are deposited from rivers. This is the region where the continental slope transitions into the abyssal plain. It is characterized by gently sloping sediments that accumulate as a result of erosion and deposition processes.Rate this question:
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- 26.
At 33,000 feet, the deepest place in the ocean is the ________.
- A.
Mid-Atlantic Ridge
- B.
Challenger Deep
- C.
Grand Canyon
- D.
East African Rift Valley
Correct Answer
B. Challenger DeepExplanation
At 33,000 feet, the deepest place in the ocean is the Challenger Deep. This is a trench located in the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean. It reaches a depth of approximately 36,070 feet and is the lowest point on Earth's surface. The other options mentioned, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Grand Canyon, and East African Rift Valley, are not the deepest places in the ocean.Rate this question:
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- 27.
An area with high volcanic activity that is not along a plate boundary is called a ______?
- A.
Fault zone
- B.
Volcanic irregularity
- C.
Guyot
- D.
Hot spot
Correct Answer
D. Hot spotExplanation
A hot spot is an area with high volcanic activity that is not along a plate boundary. It is a location where molten rock, or magma, rises to the surface, creating a volcano. Hot spots are thought to be caused by a deep mantle plume, which is a column of hot rock rising from the Earth's core-mantle boundary. As the tectonic plates move over the stationary hot spot, a chain of volcanoes is formed, with the oldest volcano being the farthest from the hot spot. This explains why hot spots can be found in the middle of tectonic plates, away from plate boundaries.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The type of fault that results in a depression in the earth's surface is called a ________.
- A.
Guyot
- B.
Horst
- C.
Graben
- D.
Buckle
Correct Answer
C. GrabenExplanation
A graben is a type of fault that occurs when two blocks of the Earth's crust move away from each other, creating a depression in the surface. This fault is characterized by a downward displacement of the hanging wall relative to the footwall. Grabens are commonly found in areas with tectonic activity, such as divergent plate boundaries or rift zones.Rate this question:
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- 29.
What is the ocean sediment that is most abundant?
- A.
Pelagic clay
- B.
Siliceous ooze
- C.
Calcareous ooze
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Pelagic clayExplanation
Pelagic clay is the correct answer because it is the most abundant ocean sediment. It is made up of fine particles of clay that settle slowly in the deep ocean. This sediment is formed from the accumulation of tiny particles of weathered rock and organic material that have been transported by ocean currents and deposited on the ocean floor. Pelagic clay covers a large portion of the ocean floor and is found in all ocean basins. It plays an important role in the global carbon cycle and provides valuable information about past climate and ocean conditions.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Why is it a bad sign for no seismic activity to be detected over an extended period of time in a high risk area like California?
- A.
Because the earth's core has shut down and will cause the earth's eventual "death."
- B.
It means the San Andreas fault has shifted too much to detect any activity.
- C.
Because it means pressure is building and will be released all at once in a massive earthquake.
- D.
It is not a bad sign, it is in fact good because there will be no more earthquakes.
Correct Answer
C. Because it means pressure is building and will be released all at once in a massive earthquake.Explanation
If no seismic activity is detected over an extended period of time in a high-risk area like California, it is a bad sign because it means pressure is building up. The absence of seismic activity indicates that the tectonic plates are not releasing the built-up pressure through smaller, more frequent earthquakes. This can lead to a sudden release of pressure in the form of a massive earthquake, causing significant damage and posing a higher risk to the population and infrastructure in the area.Rate this question:
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