Alfred Wegener: Meteorologist and Explorer
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following accurately describes Alfred Wegener's academic background before he formulated his continental drift theory?

  • Studied geology at Berlin University before transitioning to meteorology.
  • Earned a PhD in meteorology at Marburg University.
  • Completed a doctoral degree in geophysics, influencing his continental studies.
  • Received a PhD in astronomy, then shifted focus to meteorology. (correct)

    • What significant scientific endeavor did Wegener undertake with his brother Kurt in 1906?

  • Developing new geological surveying techniques.
  • Initiating the first geological survey of Africa's east coast.
  • Utilizing weather balloons to study atmospheric conditions. (correct)
  • Pioneering magnetic field mapping in Greenland.

    • What prompted Alfred Wegener to begin questioning the formation of continents while at Marburg University?

  • Noticing that coastlines of continents appeared to fit together. (correct)
  • Analyzing new geological data from his expeditions.
  • Discovering unique climate patterns that connected distant lands.
  • Witnessing unexplained seismic activities in Greenland.

    • Which critical piece of evidence did Wegener discover in 1911 that supported his theory?

    <p>Fossil records showing connections between Africa and South America. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event interrupted Wegener's academic work soon after his key publications in 1912?

    <p>His drafting into the German army during World War I. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which publication did Wegener present maps illustrating how continents were once joined?

    <p><em>The Origin of Continents and Oceans</em> (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main goal of Wegener's final expedition to Greenland in 1930?

    <p>To gather supplies and complete the exploration of northeast coast. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which position did Alfred Wegener are not be held at any point during his career?

    <p>Director of the German Weather Service. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what unconventional academic field was Wegener initially educated?

    <p>Astronomy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of Wegener's career illustrates his pioneer spirit, predating widespread acceptance?

    <p>His development of the continental drift theory despite initial resistance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Alfred Wegener

    A meteorologist and Arctic explorer known for proposing continental drift theory.

    Continental Drift

    The theory that continents were once joined and have drifted apart over time.

    Fossil Evidence

    Fossils discovered that supported the connection between Africa and South America.

    Weather Balloons

    Instrument used to study air movement, pioneered by Wegener and his brother.

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    Greenland Expedition

    Wegener's scientific expedition to Greenland to establish a meteorological station.

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    The Origin of Continents and Oceans

    Wegener's book that illustrated his theory with maps of land formations.

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    Marburg University

    The institution where Wegener became a professor and challenged continental formation ideas.

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    Drafted into WWI

    Wegener was conscripted into the army but released after being wounded.

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    Career Interrupted

    Wegener's research was temporarily halted due to military service in World War I.

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    Fourth Greenland Expedition

    Wegener's last expedition to Greenland in 1930, which ended tragically.

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    Study Notes

    Alfred Wegener: Meteorologist and Explorer

    • Wegener, a meteorologist and Arctic explorer, was the first to propose a systematic theory of continental drift
    • Despite not having a geology background, he gathered evidence from various research areas
    • His ideas were initially not widely accepted, but later gained recognition
    • Born in Berlin, Germany, youngest of five children
    • Earned a PhD in astronomy at Berlin University, then switched to meteorology
    • Worked at a meteorological station, where he pioneered the use of weather balloons to study air movement with his brother
    • Led expeditions to Greenland in 1906, an experience leading to his first Greenland meteorological station, and later questioned why continents have their current shapes; noticed similarities in coastlines
    • Became a professor of meteorology at Marburg University
    • His fourth Greenland expedition in 1930 ended tragically; he did not return
    • Wegener published a paper in 1912 introducing his theory of continental drift, and a book in 1915 called "The Origin of Continents and Oceans" which included maps of the theory
    • Wegener's theory was supported by fossil evidence indicating that Africa and South America were connected in the past

    Wegener's Career & Notable Accomplishments

    • He discovered fossil evidence in 1911, supporting his theory that Africa and South America were joined
    • Published his continental drift theory in two papers in 1912 and explained it in lectures
    • Drafted into the German army during World War I, but was released in 1914 after being wounded
    • In 1924, he took the position of professor of meteorology and geophysics at Graz University, Austria

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    Description

    Explore the life and contributions of Alfred Wegener, the pioneering meteorologist and explorer known for his groundbreaking theory of continental drift. Despite facing skepticism, Wegener's innovative approaches and expeditions shaped our understanding of geology and meteorology. Learn about his journey from an astronomy PhD to leading expeditions in Greenland.

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