10 Questions
What process has been the dominant force shaping the granite extrusions of Yosemite Valley since the glaciers retreated?
Exfoliation
What is the chief geologist, Stock, speculating as a possible cause for the cracks in Half Dome to snap?
Rainfall
What caused the tough, granite intrusions like Half Dome to be exposed over time?
Retreat of glaciers
What led to the formation of intrusions like Half Dome in Yosemite Valley?
Magma bubbles pushing through layers of continental crust
What process contributed to the formation of peaks like Half Dome and El Capitan in Yosemite?
Glacial erosion
What caused a pair of climbers to notice a massive section of missing rock on Half Dome?
They noticed a big dirt outline where the ledge was supposed to be.
Why did nobody notice when the 5 million pound slab slid off the face of Half Dome?
Rock falls are so common in Yosemite that it went unnoticed.
What is the primary cause of the numerous rock falls in Yosemite Valley?
Exfoliation resulting from unique geologic processes.
When did the North American plate start overriding the Pacific plate, leading to the formation of Yosemite Valley?
25 million years ago.
What is the approximate frequency of rock falls in Yosemite Valley per year?
60 rock falls per year.
Test your knowledge about the recent rock slide at Yosemite National Park. Explore the details of the event and its impact on the park and its visitors.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
