Earth and Geological Processes Quiz

Earth and Geological Processes

• The Earth’s crust is composed of large and small lithospheric plates that carry continents and ocean floors.
• Tectonic activities can be classified into endogenic forces (internal) producing sudden movements (earthquakes, volcanoes) and exogenic forces (external) leading to slow changes over time.

Earthquakes

• Earthquakes measure on the Richter scale; a magnitude of 2.0 is barely felt, while above 5.0 can cause significant damage.
• A major earthquake, classified as 7.0 or higher, results in catastrophic destruction.
• The 2001 earthquake in Bhuj Town, measuring 6.9, resulted in widespread damage and emergency declarations due to the loss of lives and infrastructure.

Preparedness and Safety

• Safe spots during an earthquake include under kitchen counters or desks, away from fire hazards and windows.
• Awareness and preparation are crucial for minimizing panic and ensuring safety during seismic events.

Rivers and Floodplains

• Rivers continuously shape landscapes through processes of weathering and erosion, forming fertile floodplains by depositing sediments.
• The raised banks created by sediment accumulation during flooding are known as levees.
• As rivers approach the sea, they turn into distributaries that create deltas.

Coastal and Erosional Processes

• Sea waves cause erosion and deposition, sculpting coastal landforms as they strike rocky shores.
• Cracks within rocks expand over time due to wave action, leading to significant geological features.

Glaciers and Landscapes

• Glaciers are moving masses of ice that influence landforms by transporting boulders and other materials.
• They contribute to the erosion of landscapes and the formation of unique environments like fjords and glacial valleys.