Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tsunamis Review

Front

What is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

Back

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a continuous mountain range that runs down the center of the Atlantic Ocean, formed by tectonic plates moving apart, leading to volcanic activity and the creation of new oceanic crust.

Front

What are P-waves and S-waves?

Back

P-waves (Primary waves) are compressional waves that travel through solids and liquids, while S-waves (Secondary waves) are shear waves that only travel through solids. P-waves are faster than S-waves.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is a semi-fluid layer of the Earth's mantle located beneath the lithosphere, involved in tectonic plate movement due to convection currents.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is thinner and denser than continental crust. Oceanic crust is primarily composed of basalt, while continental crust is mainly composed of granite.

Front

What causes tsunamis?

Back

Tsunamis are caused by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides that displace large volumes of water, creating powerful waves that can travel across oceans.

Front

What is the significance of magnetic polarity in geology?

Back

Magnetic polarity helps geologists understand the age of rocks and the history of plate tectonics, as the Earth's magnetic field has reversed many times, leaving a record in the ocean floor.

Front

What is crustal downwarping?

Back

Crustal downwarping is the bending or sinking of the Earth's crust due to tectonic forces, often leading to the formation of basins or low-lying areas.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A tectonic plate is a massive slab of solid rock that makes up the Earth's lithosphere, which floats on the semi-fluid asthenosphere and is responsible for geological activity.

Front

What is the role of the lithosphere in earthquakes?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth that includes the crust and upper mantle. Earthquakes occur when stress builds up along faults in the lithosphere and is suddenly released.

Front

What is the relationship between earthquakes and tsunamis?

Back

Earthquakes, especially those occurring under the ocean, can trigger tsunamis by displacing water, leading to large, destructive waves that can impact coastal areas.