Unit 3 Geology study guide

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.

Front

What are fossil fuels?

Back

Fossil fuels are energy sources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, including coal, oil, and natural gas.

Front

Why are fossil fuels considered non-renewable resources?

Back

Fossil fuels are considered non-renewable because they take millions of years to form and cannot be replenished within a human timescale.

Front

What is sea floor spreading?

Back

Sea floor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What happens to old crust during sea floor spreading?

Back

Old crust is destroyed at subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced under another.

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A subduction zone is a region of the Earth's crust where one tectonic plate moves under another, leading to the recycling of crust.

Front

What is biomass energy?

Back

Biomass energy is derived from organic materials, such as plants and animal waste, and is considered a renewable energy source.

Front

What is the hardness scale for minerals?

Back

The Mohs scale of mineral hardness ranks minerals from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond), with diamond being the hardest known natural material.

Front

Why are diamonds used in construction?

Back

Diamonds are used in construction due to their exceptional hardness, making them ideal for cutting and drilling.

Front

What is geographic isolation?

Back

Geographic isolation occurs when a population of organisms is separated from exchanging genetic material with other organisms of the same species.