Weathering Quiz

What distinguishes an inference from an observation ?

• An inference is a conclusion based on evidence, while an observation is a direct observation (using 5 senses).

• An inference is a guess, while an observation is a fact.

• An inference is based on personal opinion, while an observation is based on scientific evidence.

• An inference is a prediction, while an observation is a measurement.

Answer explanation

An inference is a conclusion based on evidence, while an observation is a direct observation using 5 senses. This distinguishes the correct choice from the other options.

Which would be considered an observation?

• The dark grey color and rough, uneven texture suggest that this rock might be igneous.

• The small speckles of minerals could indicate a composition of minerals formed during the cooling process.

• The rock is a dark grey color, with a rough, uneven texture

• The irregular shape suggest that the rock might have undergone weathering and erosion processes, altered its original structure.

Answer explanation

The correct observation is that the rock is a dark grey color, with a rough, uneven texture.

Define weathering.

• Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces.

• Weathering is the process of changing the color of rocks.

• Weathering is the process of melting rocks.

• Weathering is the process of compressing rocks.

Answer explanation

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Which is not an example of weathering?

• melting of ice cream in the sun

• root wedging caused by an old oak tree

• freezing and thawing of water in the cracks of rocks

• abrasion of rocks worn down by other rocks

Answer explanation

The melting of ice cream in the sun is not an example of weathering because it is a physical change caused by heat, not the breakdown of rocks or minerals.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

How are rock fragments and sediments formed below the Earth's surface?

•  Rock fragments and sediments are formed through volcanic activity.

  
  

•  Rock fragments and sediments are formed through erosion and weathering.

  
  

• Rock fragments and sediments are formed through the cooling and solidification of magma.

  
  

• Rock fragments and sediments are formed through the deposition of minerals by groundwater.

  
  

Answer explanation

Rock fragments and sediments are formed through erosion and weathering, which is the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Explain how caverns are formed in limestone bedrock

• compression of limestone by tectonic forces.

  
  

• dissolution of limestone by acidic groundwater.

  
  

• deposition of sediments in limestone bedrock.

  
  

• erosion of limestone by wind and water.

  
  

Answer explanation

Caverns in limestone are formed by the dissolution of limestone by acidic groundwater.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

What is the difference between physical weathering and chemical weathering? (Choose two)

• Physical weathering is the breaking down of rocks through chemical reactions

• Chemical weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

• Physical weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition.

• Chemical weathering is the breakdown of rocks through chemical reactions.

Answer explanation

Physical weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. Chemical weathering is the breakdown of rocks through chemical reactions.

What is the difference between sand and soil?

• Soil contains organic materials and sand does not.

• Sand and soil are the same.

• Sand contains organic materials and soil does not.

• Neither contain organic materials.

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Soil contains organic materials and sand does not.' Soil is composed of organic materials such as decomposed plants and animals, while sand is primarily made up of small rock particles. This difference in composition is what distinguishes soil from sand.

Which of the following is an example of chemical weathering?

•  erosion of a mountain range.

  
  

• the freezing and thawing of water in cracks, causing rocks to break apart.

  
  

• the abrasion of rocks by wind-blown sand.

  
  

•  formation of rust on a metal object.

  
  

Answer explanation

Chemical weathering is exemplified by the formation of rust on a metal object.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

 How does temperature and rainfall influence weathering?

• In areas with high rainfall and low temperatures, chemical weathering is strong.
  

• In areas with low rainfall and low temperatures, chemical weathering is strong.

• In areas with high rainfall and high temperature, chemical weathering is strong.

• Climate does not influence the type and intensity of weathering.

  
  

Answer explanation

In areas with high rainfall and high temperature, chemical weathering is strong.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2