5th Grade Unit 4 Earth Changes

Front

How do organisms help erode the Earth?

Back

Some organisms break up soil when they search for food or when they burrow underground to make homes.

Answer explanation

Organisms do indeed help with the erosion of the Earth. When insects of any kind or animals move dirt underground, they slowly erode Earth's surface.

Front

What can scientists do to lessen the destruction caused by earthquakes?

Back

Study earthquakes through the use of a seismograph

Answer explanation

An earthquake is an example of a destructive force. Destruct means to destroy and destructive forces destroy features of the Earth's surface. Scientists cannot predict when an earthquake will happen or stop it from happening. They can use a seismograph to learn more about an earthquake after it has occurred.

Front

How could someone stop chemical weathering on a cement surface?

Back

Washing and protecting the cement regularly

Answer explanation

Washing is one way to prevent chemical weathering on cement surfaces. Washing this type of surface off with water can help prevent chemicals from breaking down the cement. You can also use protectants, like sealants or paint, to help protect cement.

Front

What is one way wind erosion affects the desert?

Back

Wind erosion creates sand dunes.

Answer explanation

Wind erodes loose sand, depositing them into mounds of any/all size all over the desert. These are called sand dunes.

Front

Which type of area is more likely to weather and erode? An area with a lot of vegetation (plants) or an area with very little? Why?

Back

The area with very little vegetation, because it has no roots to absorb extra water or hold the soil together. The extra water and loose soil is likely to become a landslide/mudslide