Earthquakes & Volcanoes

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Questions and Answers

Why is understanding the causes and history of earthquakes in specific regions valuable?

  • It provides a basis for estimating the likelihood of future earthquakes in those regions. (correct)
  • It guarantees accurate prevention of earthquakes in those particular regions.
  • It enables a generalized understanding of earthquakes globally.
  • It allows for the precise timing of future earthquake predictions.

How do S-waves contribute to our understanding of Earth's interior compared to other seismic waves?

  • Their absence in liquid layers confirms the state of those layers. (correct)
  • Their speed allows for quick mapping of the Earth’s surface.
  • Their ability to travel through all layers provides a complete Earth model.
  • Their high frequency facilitates detailed analysis of surface structures.

Considering the potential impact of different types of seismic waves, which type would be most critical for engineers to consider when designing structures in earthquake-prone areas?

  • S-waves, because they are the slowest and least impactful.
  • Love waves, because they cause the most vertical displacement.
  • P-waves, because they are the fastest and arrive first.
  • Rayleigh waves, because they cause the most damage to building foundations. (correct)

How does the vibration direction of S-waves differ from P-waves?

<p>P-waves vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel, while S-waves vibrate perpendicularly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If an earthquake and a nuclear explosion both release the same amount of energy, how does the Richter scale help in differentiating the two events?

<p>The Richter scale does not differentiate; it measures magnitude, irrespective of the source. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the process that transforms wet soil into a liquid-like state during an earthquake, and why is it dangerous?

<p>Liquefaction, because it reduces the strength and stability of the ground. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the saturation level of soil influence the potential for landslides triggered by earthquakes?

<p>Increased water content makes the soil heavier, decreasing its shear strength. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary factor differentiates a tsunami from regular ocean waves?

<p>Tsunamis have a much longer wavelength and are caused by significant displacement of water. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do subduction zones contribute to the formation of volcanoes, and why are these volcanoes often more explosive?

<p>They introduce water into the mantle, lowering the melting point and creating more explosive eruptions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do volcanoes influence the nutrient content and fertility of surrounding soils?

<p>Volcanic eruptions deposit nutrient-rich ash, which enhances soil fertility. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does sulfur dioxide play in triggering respiratory issues?

<p>It irritates respiratory tracts and eyes, exacerbating conditions like asthma. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of sustainability apply to the use of both renewable and non-renewable resources?

<p>Sustainability involves using resources responsibly, balancing current needs with future availability, even for non-renewable resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the process of evaporation play a role in both the water cycle and the Earth's energy balance?

<p>Evaporation cools the surface as water absorbs heat, converting liquid to gas. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the presence of minerals contribute to the formation and characteristics of soil?

<p>Minerals provide the inorganic components that form the soil structure. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can understanding the factors affecting soil formation aid in sustainable agriculture practices?

<p>It helps farmers manage erosion and nutrient depletion, ensuring long-term productivity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the decay of organic matter contribute to the formation and sustainability of soil?

<p>It provides essential nutrients for plants. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the depth and composition of sediment layers influence the formation of fossil fuels?

<p>Fine-grained sediment protects organic matter from oxidation, promoting fossil fuel formation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical condition is required for the transformation of organic remains into fossil fuels, and why?

<p>An anaerobic environment preventing further decay. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the geological characteristics of a region affect the formation of coal?

<p>Swampy environments allows preservation of dense layers of plant matter. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do underground geological structures affect the accumulation and trapping of oil and natural gas?

<p>They create impermeable traps, concentrating hydrocarbons derived from organic-rich source rocks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are areas with moderate temperatures and precipitation ideal for soil development?

<p>Moderate conditions encourage consistent weathering and biological activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

From a resource management perspective, why is it critical to recognize most minerals as limited and nonrenewable?

<p>It encourages efficient use, recycling, and exploration of alternatives. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does biological activity, such as that of animals and bacteria, enhance soil formation, and what implications does this have for land management?

<p>Breaks material by enriching soil structure, nutrient cycling, and mixing. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do hydrothermal deposits form, and in what types of geological settings would you expect to find them?

<p>Form where hot, mineral-rich fluids react with rocks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to efficiently use existing materials effectively rather than creating more waste?

<p>More efficiently using what you need saves resources and the environmental impact. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes renewable resources from non-renewable resources?

<p>Renewable does not deplete to their origin where is non-renewable does. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do geologic traps play in the formation of oil and natural gas reservoirs?

<p>The trap gasses and oil from escaping to the surface. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does using mineral resources sustainably reduce reliance on new mining operations and their associated drawbacks?

<p>Recycling reduces dependence on mining while minimizing disruptions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can a society transition effectively towards energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels?

<p>Developing and implementing sustainable energy solutions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can understanding the soil affect the decision to build a structure?

<p>Affect stability for construction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factors determine the amount of pore space in a material, and how does this characteristic influence its suitability for various applications?

<p>Shape/arrangement of particles (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a geological formation's permeability affect its ability to function as an aquifer or a barrier to groundwater flow?

<p>The faster the flow = better aquifier. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of scientists evaluating eruptive styles and the history of volcanoes nearby?

<p>Determine area threat. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is carbon dioxide considered a volcanic gas.

<p>Can cause death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a Seismograph show?

<p>The highest of seismic waves amplitude. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Earthquake locations

Locations where earthquakes commonly occur, often near tectonic plate boundaries.

Earthquake prediction

The occurrence of earthquakes, remains unpredictable with current technology.

Surface waves

Seismic waves that travel slowly and cause considerable ground movement.

Surface waves

Seismic waves causing the most structural damage during an earthquake.

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P-waves

Fastest seismic waves, also known as primary waves.

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S-waves

Waves causing rock particles to vibrate perpendicularly to their direction of travel.

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Richter scale

The value of the magnitude of the largest seismic waves produced by an earthquake.

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Liquefaction

Seismic shaking turning wet soil into a liquid, causing buildings to sink.

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Landslide

Rapid downhill movement of soil, rocks, and boulders during an earthquake.

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Tsunami

Large ocean wave caused by vertical seafloor motion during an earthquake.

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Volcano-Tectonics Association

Volcanoes commonly found near areas where tectonic plates converge or diverge.

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Volcanic belts

Volcanoes forming two major belts along plate boundaries around the world.

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Non-plate boundary volcanoes

Volcanoes located away from plate boundaries.

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Volcanic gases

Irritants released during volcanic eruptions.

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Natural resources

Resources from Earth; some are renewable, some are not.

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Renewable resources

Resources replenished quickly, e.g., solar and timber.

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Non-renewable resources

Resources that cannot be quickly replaced, like minerals.

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Water cycle

The process where Earth reuses its water through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

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Fuels

Substances burned for energy like coal, oil, or wood.

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Minerals

Components of soil, rocks, and metals.

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Soil Formation Factors

Climate, topography, organisms, parent material, and time.

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Fossil fuels

Materials formed from decayed organisms compressed over millions of years.

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Oil and gas formation

Oil and natural gas originate from decayed remains of marine organisms.

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Coal formation

Coal comes from prehistoric swamp plants preserved over time.

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Aquifer

Is the zone where water collects underground, composed of permeable rock and sediment.

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Solar energy

Energy derived from sun.

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Conservation

Utilizing resources as effectively as one can.

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Recycling

Reprocessing used materials into new products.

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Hydrothermal deposits

Energy created when heat from tectonic activity produces mineral-rich fluids that chemically react with rocks.

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Geologic Trap

A type of impermeable rock that prevents the oil and gas from escaping to the surface

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Ground water

The water that lies below ground, making up one-third of the earth's freshwater

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porosity

The amount of pore space in a material.

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Premiability

The measure of water's ability to flow through sediment and rock

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Study Notes

  • Earthquakes typically occur near tectonic plate boundaries or fault lines
  • Predicting the exact timing of an earthquake is impossible
  • Estimating potential future earthquakes is possible through understanding earthquake causes and regional history

Seismic Waves

  • Surface waves are the slowest type

  • Surface waves cause the most damage to buildings

  • Primary waves are the fastest seismic waves

  • Secondary waves cause rock particles to vibrate perpendicularly to the direction waves travel

  • Magnitude is a numerical system measuring energy or magnitude of the largest seismic waves

  • Liquefaction refers to the shaking from earthquakes turning wet soil into a liquid, leading to building collapse

  • Landslide refers to a rapid downhill movement of soil, rocks, and boulders during an earthquake

  • A tsunami is a large ocean wave caused by vertical motion of the seafloor, often from underwater earthquakes

Volcanoes

  • Volcanoes are associated with plate boundaries and hot spots
  • Volcanoes at plate boundaries form the Ring of Fire and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
  • Hot spot volcanoes are not associated with plate boundaries
  • Volcanic gases, like sulfur dioxide, can irritate skin and eyes

Natural Resources

  • The two natural resources are renewable and non-renewable.

  • Solar, wind, and water are examples of renewable resources

  • Coal, oil, and natural gas are examples of non-renewable resources

  • Water constantly recycles through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation

  • Coal, oil, and natural gas are considered fuels

  • Minerals serve as the fundamental building blocks for soil, rocks, and metals

  • Soil formation relies on parent material, climate, topography, and time

  • Oil and natural gas come from the remains of marine organisms

  • Coal comes from prehistoric swamps

True or False

  • Earthquakes typically occur in the center of tectonic plates - (FALSE)
  • Timing of an earthquake can be predicted - (FALSE)
  • Locations of future earthquakes cannot be estimated - (FALSE)
  • Areas with moderate temperatures and precipitation yield rich soils. - (TRUE)
  • Most minerals are limited and nonrenewable and take a long time to form. - (TRUE)
  • Animals and bacteria speed up soil formation. - (TRUE)
  • Fossil fuels used are from prehistoric organisms. - (TRUE)
  • Hydrothermal deposits are minerals that crystallize from hot, mineral-rich fluids produced by tectonic activity. - (TRUE)
  • Oil and natural gas are from plankton remains - (TRUE)
  • Coal formation involves plants in prehistoric swamps - (TRUE)

Scientific Terms Definitions

  • Solar energy is energy from the sun used for heating buildings
  • Solar cells change energy from the sun to electrical energy
  • Ore is a rock rich in valuable minerals
  • Conservation is using resources efficiently
  • Recycling reuses materials to reduce waste
  • Nonrenewable resources existin limited amounts and cannot be easily replaced
  • Fuels are substances burned for energy
  • Wind is a renewable, non-polluting resource
  • Renewable resources can be replaced
  • Soil is loose, weathered material for plant growth
  • Geologic traps are impermeable rock layers preventing oil and gas escape
  • Groundwater is water below ground, making up one third of Earth's freshwater
  • Porosity is the amount of pore space in a material
  • Permeability is water's ability to flow through sediment and rock

Short answer questions

  • Solar energy is energy harnessed from the sun's radiation

  • Wind energy is energy harnessed from surface winds

  • Non-renewable resources are resources that cannot be replenished at the rate they are consumed

  • Fuel is any substance that is burned to produce energy

Multiple Choice Answers

  • All minerals are non-renewable resources
  • Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, are non-renewable resources
  • Iron ore contains the metal iron
  • Fuel is a substance burned to provide energy

Matching Answers

  • Volcanoes benefits include evaluation of eruptive style/history to gauge threat, creation of new lands, carbon dioxide as a volcanic gas, and volcanoes that can not be classified interfering with shipping lanes
  • Volcanoes are classified as Shield volcanoes/Calderas

Diagrams

  • Water cycle includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, collection, and groundwater
  • Diagram also requires a Richter Scale and a mineral example

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