Tectonics Quiz

What is plate tectonics?

• The study of the Earth's atmosphere and weather patterns.

• The process by which rocks are formed from molten material.

• The study of the Earth's magnetic field and its changes over time.

• The scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere.

Name the three types of plate boundaries.

• Subduction boundaries, collision boundaries, and sliding boundaries

• Tectonic boundaries, fault boundaries, and rift boundaries

• Oceanic boundaries, continental boundaries, and island boundaries

• Divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries, and transform boundaries

What causes earthquakes?

• Tectonic plate movement

• Underground explosions

• Meteorite impact

• Volcanic activity

Define continental drift.

• The theory that explains how the Earth's continents have formed from volcanic activity.

• The theory that explains how the Earth's continents have shifted due to the movement of ocean currents.

• The theory that explains how the Earth's continents have moved over time due to the movement of tectonic plates.

• The theory that explains how the Earth's continents have remained fixed in place over time.

What is a subduction zone?

• A subduction zone is a region where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

• A subduction zone is a region where magma rises to the Earth's surface and forms a volcano.

• A subduction zone is a region where one tectonic plate is forced underneath another plate into the Earth's mantle.

• A subduction zone is a region where two tectonic plates collide and create a mountain range.

Which type of seismic waves are the fastest?

• S-waves

• Surface waves

• Love waves

• P-waves

What are the two main types of seismic waves?

• Surface waves and Rayleigh waves

• Primary waves and Secondary waves

• Love waves and Raleigh waves

• P-waves and S-waves

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

• Correlation between tides, distribution of fossils, alignment of deserts and geological formations.

• Similarities in climate, distribution of fossils, alignment of volcanoes and geological formations.

• Matching shapes of clouds, distribution of fossils, alignment of rivers and geological formations.

• Matching shapes of coastlines, distribution of fossils, alignment of mountain ranges and geological formations.

How do subduction zones form?

• Subduction zones form when one tectonic plate is forced beneath another plate.

• Subduction zones form when volcanic activity pushes one tectonic plate over another.

• Subduction zones form when tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

• Subduction zones form when two tectonic plates collide and create a mountain range.

What is the Richter scale used for?

• To measure the intensity of hurricanes.

• To calculate the speed of wind.

• To determine the depth of ocean.

• To measure the magnitude of earthquakes.