Tectonic Processes and Hazards Quiz

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

• The study of weather patterns over time

• The theory that the Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the mantle

• The belief that Earth is gradually expanding over time

• The study of the composition of minerals within the Earth's crust

Which type of plate boundary is associated with the creation of new crust?

• Convergent boundary

• Divergent boundary

• Transform boundary

• Subduction zone

What is a fault line?

• A fracture in the Earth's surface where no movement has occurred

• The point on the Earth's surface directly above an earthquake's origin

• A fracture along which the blocks of crust on either side have moved relative to one another parallel to the fracture

• A large area of land that has remained unchanged for millions of years

Which type of fault is most commonly associated with transform plate boundaries?

• Normal fault

• Reverse fault

• Strike-slip fault

• Oblique fault

What causes earthquakes?

• Sudden temperature changes in the Earth's core

• The movement of magma beneath the Earth's surface

• The release of stress along fault lines or from volcanic activity

• Gravitational pull from the moon

What is subduction?

• The process by which one tectonic plate moves under another tectonic plate

• The expansion of the sea floor

• The uplift of mountain ranges

• The process by which tectonic plates slide past each other

Which of the following is NOT a consequence of plate tectonics?

• Earthquakes

• Volcanic eruptions

• Formation of mountains

• Changes in the Earth's magnetic field

What is the Ring of Fire?

• A region in the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur

• A theory that explains the extinction of dinosaurs

• A circular area on the sun that emits intense heat and light

• A geological formation found at the center of all major continents

Which of the following best describes the movement of tectonic plates?

• They move at speeds comparable to that of growing fingernails.

• They remain stationary until an earthquake occurs.

• They move rapidly, causing constant earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

• They only move during the formation of mountains.