Natural Hazards quiz

What is a natural hazard?

• A man-made disaster

• An extreme natural event which affects people

• An extreme natural event

• A technological failure

Answer explanation

A natural hazard is defined as an extreme natural event that impacts people, such as earthquakes or floods. This distinguishes it from man-made disasters, minor weather changes, or technological failures.

Give an example of a natural hazard.

• Avalanche in Antarctica

• Tropical storm

• Landslide in the countryside of Russia

• Internet failure

Answer explanation

A tropical storm is a natural hazard characterized by strong winds and heavy rain, posing risks to life and property. In contrast, car accidents, power outages, and internet failures are not classified as natural hazards.

Name a factor that is increasing hazard risk.

• Urbanisation

• Technological advancement

• Improved healthcare

• Decreased population

Answer explanation

Urbanisation increases hazard risk as it leads to higher population density, more infrastructure, and greater vulnerability to disasters. In contrast, technological advancement and improved healthcare typically reduce risks.

Is everywhere on Earth at risk from tectonic hazards?

• Yes

• No

• Only in the tropics

• Only in urban areas

Answer explanation

No, not everywhere on Earth is at risk from tectonic hazards. These hazards are primarily concentrated along tectonic plate boundaries, which are not uniformly distributed across the globe.

Where do tectonic hazards occur?

• In the ocean

• At plate margins

• In the atmosphere

• In the desert

Answer explanation

Tectonic hazards primarily occur at plate margins, where tectonic plates interact. This is where earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other geological activities are most likely to happen, making it the correct answer.

What is the very centre of the Earth called?

• The crust

• The mantle

• The outer core

• The inner core

Answer explanation

The very centre of the Earth is called the inner core. It is a solid sphere composed mainly of iron and nickel, surrounded by the outer core, which is liquid. The crust and mantle are above these layers.

What is the layer of the Earth on which oceans and continents sit?

• The mantle

• The crust

• The outer core

• The inner core

Answer explanation

The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth where oceans and continents are located. It is solid and relatively thin compared to the underlying mantle, making it the correct answer.

What is the layer of the Earth on which the crust sits?

• The mantle

• The outer core

• The inner core

• The lithosphere

Answer explanation

The crust of the Earth sits on the mantle, which is the layer beneath it. The mantle is solid but can flow slowly, allowing the crust to float on top.

Why do tectonic plates move?

• Wind currents

• Ocean currents

• Convection currents in the mantle

• Magnetic fields

Answer explanation

Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the mantle. These currents are caused by the heat from the Earth's core, which creates a flow of molten rock that pushes the plates apart or pulls them together.

Name the two types of tectonic crust.

• Oceanic and continental

• Inner and outer

• Upper and lower

• Thick and thin

Answer explanation

The two types of tectonic crust are oceanic and continental. Oceanic crust is denser and thinner, while continental crust is thicker and less dense, making 'oceanic and continental' the correct answer.