Earth Materials and Processes: Virginia Science Standards Quiz

What is the thinnest outer layer of Earth composed of?

• Gaseous clouds

• Liquid magma

• Solid rock

• Molten metal

What percentage of Earth's volume does the mantle comprise?

• 50%

• 84%

• 25%

• 10%

What is the primary composition of the Earth's outer core?

• Solid rock

• Gaseous hydrogen

• Liquid iron and nickel alloy

• Molten lava

How many major and minor tectonic plates make up Earth's lithosphere?

• 10

• 15

• 20

• 25

What geological feature is created at convergent plate boundaries?

• Mountains

• Rifts

• Volcanoes

• Earthquakes

Which type of rock is characterized by interlocking crystals with no layering?

• Organic

• Sedimentary

• Igneous

• Metamorphic

What process transforms existing rocks into metamorphic rocks?

• Melting

• Cooling

• Erosion

• Heat and pressure

Which type of sedimentary rock is formed from rock fragments cemented together?

• Igneous

• Organic

• Chemical

• Clastic

What is the main characteristic of sedimentary rocks?

• Distinct layering

• Foliation

• Interlocking crystals

• No visible grains

What is the primary driver of tectonic plate movement?

• Ocean currents

• Wind patterns

• Mantle convection currents

• Solar radiation