Earth Science SM I EXAM REVIEW FLASHCARDIZZ

Front

What happens when an unstable radioactive atom decays?

Back

It usually turns into a more stable atom.

Front

How deep is the ocean if a SONAR device records a sound bounce back time of 6 seconds?

Back

4500 meters.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his idea of continental drift?

Back

Climatic data.

Front

What best describes deposition?

Back

Particles settle as loosely packed sediment.

Front

What type of plate boundary exists between the South American Plate and the Nazca Plate?

Back

Convergent.

Front

Define continental drift.

Back

The theory that continents move across the Earth's surface over geological time.

Front

What is the primary cause of ocean currents?

Back

Wind patterns and the Earth's rotation.

Front

Explain the process of sedimentation.

Back

The process where particles settle out of a fluid and accumulate as sediment.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other.

Front

What is the significance of magnetic isochron patterns?

Back

They provide evidence for seafloor spreading and plate tectonics.