Study Guide Chapter 2. Julio Leiva
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Jan 9, 2024
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Julio Leiva
Dr. Davis
Geo-3100
Exam 1 Study Guide: Part 2
Chapter 2: Internal Structure of the Earth and Plate Tectonics
1.
What are the basic components (parts) of Earth’s internal structure? (1 pt)
The basic components of Earth's internal structure include the crust, mantle, and core.
The crust is the outermost layer and is divided into continental crust and oceanic crust. The
mantle is made of 3 layers (lithosphere, asthenosphere, oceanic crust). The core is the innermost
layer and is composed of a solid inner core and a liquid outer core.
2.
Explain the difference between the lithosphere and the asthenosphere. (1 pt)
The lithosphere and asthenosphere are both layers of the Earth's uppermost part, but they
have different properties. The lithosphere is the rigid, outermost layer of the Earth that includes
the crust and part of the upper mantle. It is broken into tectonic plates that move and interact
with each other. On the other hand, the asthenosphere is a partially molten, semi-fluid layer
beneath the lithosphere. It is responsible for the movement of the tectonic plates.
3.
Why was the continental drift hypothesis not take seriously? (1 pt)
The continental drift hypothesis proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century
was not taken seriously initially because Wegener could not provide a satisfactory explanation
for the mechanism behind the movement of continents. Additionally, his evidence was mostly
based on similarities between the coastlines of continents, which was considered insufficient at
the time. It was not until later, with the development of plate tectonics theory, that Wegener's
hypothesis gained acceptance.
4.
Describe the process that causes tectonic plates to move? (1 pt)
Tectonic plates move due to a process called plate tectonics. This movement is driven by
convection currents in the mantle. The heat generated by radioactive decay in the core causes the
mantle material to become less dense and rise. As it reaches the top of the mantle, it cools,
becomes denser, and sinks back down. This circular motion creates convection currents that drag
the tectonic plates along with them.
5.
Describe the three types of plate boundaries and the landforms that are common at each.
What is the difference between subduction zones and collision zones? (1 pt)
There are three types of plate boundaries: divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries,
and transform boundaries. Divergent boundaries occur when tectonic plates move away from
each other, creating a gap. This can lead to the formation of mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys.
Convergent boundaries occur when tectonic plates collide with each other. Depending on the
types of plates involved, this can result in subduction zones or collision zones. Subduction zones
occur when one plate is forced beneath another, leading to the formation of trenches and volcanic
arcs. Collision zones occur when two continental plates collide, resulting in the formation of
mountains. Transform boundaries occur when tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally,
resulting in earthquakes.
6.
What are magnetic reversals and what do they tells us about the sea floor? (1 pt)
Magnetic reversals are changes in the Earth's magnetic field over time. The sea floor
contains rocks that preserve the record of these magnetic reversals. As the sea floor spreads at
mid-ocean ridges, magma rises and solidifies, locking in the orientation of the Earth's magnetic
field at that time. By studying the patterns of magnetic reversals recorded in the sea floor rocks,
scientists can gain insights into the past movements of tectonic plates.
7.
What are hot spots and where do they occur? (1 pt)
Hot spots are areas of volcanic activity that are not associated with plate boundaries.
They occur due to plumes of hot mantle material rising from deep within the Earth. Over time, as
the tectonic plate moves over the stationary hot spot, a chain of volcanic islands or seamounts is
formed. Examples of hot spots include the Hawaiian Islands and the Yellowstone.
8.
What was Pangaea and when did it exist? (1 pt)
Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed approximately 335 million years ago during
the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. It was formed by the collision and aggregation of
several smaller continents. Over time, Pangaea began to break apart, eventually leading to the
formation of the continents we know today. This process, known as continental drift, was driven
by the movement of tectonic plates.
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9.
What is the difference between ridge push and slab pull? (1 pt)
Ridge push and slab pull are two mechanisms that contribute to the movement of tectonic
plates. Ridge push occurs at mid-ocean ridges, where new crust is continuously being formed. As
the new crust forms, it pushes the older, denser crust away, creating a ridge push force. On the
other hand, slab pull occurs at subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath
another. The sinking of the denser plate creates a pulling force that contributes to plate
movement.
10.
Why do convergent plate boundaries represent a greater hazard than other plate
boundaries?
Convergent plate boundaries represent a greater hazard than other plate boundaries
because they involve the collision or subduction of tectonic plates. This collision can lead to
intense geological activity, such as the formation of mountains, volcanic eruptions, and
earthquakes. The compression and release of energy during plate convergence can result in
powerful earthquakes that can cause significant damage and loss of life. Additionally, volcanic
activity is common at convergent boundaries, which can also pose a threat to human populations.