Earth Science Concepts and Processes

Which statement accurately describes the two main types of Earth's crust?

• Continental crust is denser and thinner than oceanic crust.

• Oceanic crust is less dense and thicker than continental crust.

• Continental crust is less dense and thicker than oceanic crust.

• Both continental and oceanic crusts have the same density and thickness.

What is the correct order of Earth's layers from the outermost to the innermost?

• Crust, Mantle, Outer Core, Inner Core

• Mantle, Crust, Outer Core, Inner Core

• Crust, Outer Core, Inner Core, Mantle

• Inner Core, Outer Core, Mantle, Crust

Despite extremely high temperatures, why does Earth's inner core remain solid?

• It is primarily composed of lightweight gases.

• It is constantly being cooled by the outer core.

• The immense pressure at the center of the Earth keeps it solid.

• It is made of elements that cannot melt.

What is the primary difference between intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks?

• Intrusive rocks form from lava, while extrusive rocks form from magma.

• Intrusive rocks cool and solidify beneath the Earth's surface, while extrusive rocks cool and solidify above the surface.

• Intrusive rocks are always dark-colored, while extrusive rocks are always light-colored.

• Intrusive rocks contain no crystals, while extrusive rocks contain large crystals.

What factor primarily determines the size of mineral crystals in an igneous rock?

• The type of minerals present in the magma.

• The amount of pressure exerted on the magma.

• The speed at which the magma cools.

• The depth at which the rock is found.

What characteristic distinguishes felsic igneous rocks from mafic igneous rocks?

• Felsic rocks are darker and denser.

• Mafic rocks are richer in silicon and aluminum.

• Felsic rocks form from magma closer to the surface.

• Mafic rocks have larger individual mineral grains.

Which of the following is a primary agent of weathering and erosion that can alter, disintegrate, and decompose rocks?

• High pressure deep within the Earth's crust.

• Molten magma.

• Water.

• Volcanic eruptions.

How are sediments transformed into sedimentary rock?

• Through melting and recrystallization.

• By intense heat and pressure causing mineral recrystallization.

• By compaction, cementation, and pressure from overlying material.

• Rapid cooling of lava on the Earth's surface.

Which type of sedimentary rock is formed from the accumulation and compaction of organic matter in swampy environments?

• Sandstone

• Limestone

• Gneiss

• Coal

What process causes existing rocks to change into new, harder, and more compact rock types due to intense temperature and pressure changes without melting?

• Weathering

• Erosion

• Crystallization

• Metamorphism