1.
Mass movements composed of volcanic materials mixed with large quantities of water.
Correct Answer
D. Lahars
Explanation
Lahars are mass movements composed of volcanic materials mixed with large quantities of water. They occur when volcanic eruptions melt snow and ice on the volcano, causing a mixture of ash, rocks, and water to flow down the slopes. Lahars can be extremely destructive, as they can travel at high speeds and carry large boulders and debris, causing significant damage to infrastructure and posing a threat to human life.
2.
Rotational downslope movement of sediment and soil along a curved surface.
Correct Answer
E. Slump
Explanation
Slump refers to the rotational downslope movement of sediment and soil along a curved surface. This movement occurs when the material becomes unstable and loses its strength, causing it to slide down in a curved manner. Unlike other options like rock and debris avalanches, debris flows, and lahars, which involve different types of mass movements, slump specifically describes this particular type of movement along a curved surface.
3.
Rapid mass movements containing large quantities of water that move as a viscous fluid.
Correct Answer
C. Debris flows
Explanation
Debris flows are rapid mass movements that involve large amounts of water and move as a viscous fluid. Unlike other options listed, such as creep or slumps, debris flows specifically involve the movement of debris mixed with water. This distinguishes them from other types of mass movements and makes them the correct answer in this context.
4.
The gradual downslope transport of soil and regolith that can be caused by expansion and contraction of a slope during the seasonal freeze-thaw cycle.
Correct Answer
A. Creep
Explanation
Creep is the correct answer because it refers to the gradual downslope movement of soil and regolith. This movement is caused by the expansion and contraction of a slope during the freeze-thaw cycle, which occurs seasonally. Creep is a slow process that can result in the displacement of soil and regolith over time.
5.
Travel very rapidly and over great distances due to low friction from a compressed cushion of trapped air underneath the mass movement.
Correct Answer
B. Rock and Debris Avalanches
Explanation
Rock and Debris Avalanches occur when a mass of rocks and debris rapidly travel over long distances. This is facilitated by a compressed cushion of trapped air underneath the moving mass, which reduces friction. The low friction allows the rocks and debris to travel quickly and cover great distances.
6.
Mass wasting plays a significant role in:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Mass wasting refers to the movement of rocks, soil, and other materials down slopes under the influence of gravity. It can transport these earth materials from slopes to river systems, contributing to sedimentation and the formation of river valleys. Additionally, mass wasting helps in the reduction of steep topographic features by causing erosion and reshaping slopes into more stable configurations. This process can also widen canyons and valleys as materials are removed and transported downstream. Therefore, all of the given options are correct, as mass wasting plays a significant role in each of these processes.
7.
Which of these does NOT contribute to the downslope acceleration of rock, soil, or regolith?
Correct Answer
C. An increase in the resistance or friction force
Explanation
An increase in the resistance or friction force does not contribute to the downslope acceleration of rock, soil, or regolith. Resistance or friction force acts in the opposite direction to the motion and opposes the downslope movement. Therefore, an increase in resistance or friction force would actually slow down or prevent the downslope acceleration of the material.
8.
Heavy rainfall and snowmelt can trigger mass events because.
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
Heavy rainfall and snowmelt can trigger mass events because the saturation of sediments with water adds weight to slopes, which can increase the likelihood of slope failure. Additionally, the addition of water along a plane of weakness between layers reduces friction, making it easier for the layers to slide past one another. The force of water can also separate grains of sediment, further facilitating movement and increasing the risk of mass events. Therefore, all of the given options (a and b) are correct explanations for why heavy rainfall and snowmelt can trigger mass events.
9.
A mass movement in which slabs of bed rock move downslope along an inclined plane or surface is classified as a
Correct Answer
D. Rockslide
Explanation
A rockslide is a type of mass movement in which slabs of bedrock move downslope along an inclined plane or surface. During a rockslide, large blocks of rock detach from a steep slope and rapidly slide or tumble downhill. This movement is typically triggered by factors such as gravity, erosion, or seismic activity. Rockslides are characterized by the sudden and rapid displacement of large rock masses, which can cause significant damage and pose a threat to human life and infrastructure.
10.
Which of the following would be a form of mass wasting that has a very fluid-like motion and therefore tends to travel rapidly over great distances down stream channels?
Correct Answer
C. Debris flow
Explanation
Debris flow is a form of mass wasting that has a very fluid-like motion and can travel rapidly over great distances down stream channels. It occurs when a mixture of water, rock fragments, and soil flows downslope due to gravity. This type of mass wasting is common in areas with steep slopes and loose, unconsolidated materials. The fluid-like nature of debris flow allows it to quickly move downhill, making it a fast and destructive process that can cause significant damage to the surrounding environment.
11.
The nucleus of an atom contains:
Correct Answer
B. Protons and neutrons
Explanation
The nucleus of an atom contains protons and neutrons. Protons have a positive charge, while neutrons have no charge. These particles are tightly packed together in the center of the atom, forming the nucleus. Electrons, on the other hand, are located in the electron cloud surrounding the nucleus. They have a negative charge and are much smaller and lighter than protons and neutrons. Therefore, the correct answer is that the nucleus contains protons and neutrons.
12.
The atomic number of an element represents:
Correct Answer
A. The number of protons in an atom
Explanation
The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in an atom. Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom. The atomic number is unique to each element and determines its placement on the periodic table. It also determines the element's chemical properties and its position in the periodic table.
13.
Isotopes are:
Correct Answer
E. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
Explanation
Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Since neutrons do not affect the chemical properties of an element, isotopes of the same element have the same chemical properties. However, the difference in the number of neutrons can affect the stability and radioactive properties of the isotopes. Therefore, the correct answer is "Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons."
14.
Radioactivity commonly results from:
Correct Answer
B. The strong nuclear force being overcome by the repulsive electrical force between protons - usually caused by an imbalance of protons and neutrons.
Explanation
Radioactivity commonly results from the strong nuclear force being overcome by the repulsive electrical force between protons. This is usually caused by an imbalance of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. When the repulsive electrical force becomes stronger than the strong nuclear force, the nucleus becomes unstable and undergoes radioactive decay, emitting radiation in the process. This imbalance of protons and neutrons can occur naturally or as a result of nuclear reactions or decay processes.
15.
Alpha particle radiation is:
Correct Answer
B. Particles consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons emitted by and unstable atomic nucleus.
Explanation
Alpha particle radiation refers to particles consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons emitted by an unstable atomic nucleus. These particles are relatively large and carry a positive charge. They have a high ionizing power and can cause significant damage to biological tissues. Due to their size and charge, they have a short range and can be easily stopped by a few centimeters of air or a sheet of paper. This type of radiation is commonly emitted by certain radioactive elements such as uranium and radon.
16.
Which form of radiation would be the most penetration of the most difficult to shield yourself from?
Correct Answer
C. Gamma Rays
Explanation
Gamma rays are the most difficult to shield yourself from because they have the highest energy and can penetrate through most materials. Unlike alpha and beta particles, which can be stopped by a sheet of paper or a few centimeters of air, gamma rays require thick and dense materials such as lead or concrete to effectively shield against them. This makes gamma rays the most dangerous form of radiation and the hardest to protect against.
17.
When an atom ejects an alpha particle from its nucleus, what will happen to its mass number?
Correct Answer
E. Decreases by 4
Explanation
When an atom ejects an alpha particle from its nucleus, the alpha particle consists of two protons and two neutrons. These two protons and two neutrons have a combined mass of 4 atomic mass units (AMU). Therefore, when the alpha particle is ejected, the atom loses 4 AMU from its mass number, causing it to decrease by 4.
18.
Which of the following is NOT true about the half-life of a radioactive isotope?
Correct Answer
C. Is not constant and may vary significantly due to environmental conditions.
Explanation
The half-life of a radioactive isotope is a measure of the rate of decay for the isotope. It is the time required for half of the original quantity of the isotope to decay. The half-life can be calculated by measuring the rate of decay of a known quantity using a radiation detector. However, the length of a half-life is different for different isotopes. Therefore, the statement that is not true about the half-life of a radioactive isotope is that it is not constant and may vary significantly due to environmental conditions.
19.
K-Ar (AR-40) dating is most useful for:
Correct Answer
D. Determining the ages of igneous and metamorpHic rocks that are millions of years old.
Explanation
K-Ar (AR-40) dating is most useful for determining the ages of igneous and metamorphic rocks that are millions of years old. This is because K-Ar dating is based on the decay of the isotope potassium-40 (K-40) into argon-40 (Ar-40) over time. Igneous and metamorphic rocks contain minerals that can incorporate K-40 during their formation. As the rock cools and solidifies, the clock starts ticking and the K-40 begins to decay into Ar-40. By measuring the ratio of K-40 to Ar-40 in the rock, scientists can calculate the age of the rock. This method is not suitable for dating organic materials or sedimentary rocks, as they do not contain the necessary minerals for K-Ar dating.
20.
You have 40 g of a radioactive isotope. The half-life for that particular isotope is 1 day. How much is left after 3 days?
Correct Answer
C. 5 g
Explanation
The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the time it takes for half of the initial amount of the isotope to decay. In this case, the half-life is 1 day. After 1 day, half of the 40 g (20 g) will have decayed. After 2 days, another half of the remaining 20 g (10 g) will have decayed. Finally, after 3 days, another half of the remaining 10 g (5 g) will have decayed. Therefore, after 3 days, there will be 5 g of the radioactive isotope left.
21.
A gram of carbon is extracted from an ancient tree stump is one-eighth as radioactive as a gram of carbon extracted from a currently living tree (1/8 of the Original quantity of C-14 remains). The half-life of C-14 is 5,760 years. How long ago did the tree die?
Correct Answer
A. 17,280 years
Explanation
The half-life of C-14 is 5,760 years, which means that after 5,760 years, half of the original quantity of C-14 will remain. If a gram of carbon extracted from the ancient tree stump is one-eighth as radioactive as a gram of carbon extracted from a currently living tree, it means that only one-eighth of the original quantity of C-14 remains in the ancient tree stump. To determine how long ago the tree died, we can calculate the number of half-lives that have passed. Since one-eighth is equal to 2^(-3), we can multiply the half-life of C-14 by 3 to get the total number of years: 5,760 years x 3 = 17,280 years. Therefore, the tree died 17,280 years ago.
22.
The current estimated geological age of the Earth is approximately:
Correct Answer
D. 4.5 billion years
Explanation
The current estimated geological age of the Earth is believed to be approximately 4.5 billion years. This estimation is based on various scientific methods, such as radiometric dating of rocks and minerals, which provide evidence of the Earth's age. These methods involve measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes in rocks and calculating the time it takes for them to decay. By analyzing different rock samples from various parts of the Earth, scientists have determined that the planet is around 4.5 billion years old.
23.
The Principle of Uniformitarianism states that:
Correct Answer
B. The Earth's surface was shaped by processes that have operated over vast spans of time and these same processes can still be observed at the present.
Explanation
The Principle of Uniformitarianism states that the Earth's surface was shaped by processes that have operated over vast spans of time and these same processes can still be observed at the present. This means that the geological features we see today, such as mountains, valleys, and rivers, were formed by gradual and continuous processes that have been occurring for millions of years. By studying these processes and their effects, scientists can gain insights into the Earth's history and make predictions about future changes. This principle is fundamental to the field of geology and helps explain the long-term evolution of the Earth's surface.
24.
The Law of Superposition states that:
Correct Answer
D. In an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rocks, each bed is older than the one above it and younger than the one below.
Explanation
The Law of Superposition states that in an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rocks, each bed is older than the one above it and younger than the one below. This means that the layers of sedimentary rocks are deposited in a specific order over time, with the oldest layers at the bottom and the youngest layers at the top. This principle is useful in determining the relative ages of different rock layers and can be used to create a chronological sequence of events in Earth's history.
25.
A nonconformity is fond where:
Correct Answer
D. Younger sedimentary rock layers are deposited directly on ancient igneous and metamorpHic rocks.
26.
When did fish, amphibians and reptiles first appear in the fossil record?
Correct Answer
C. Paleozoic
Explanation
During the Paleozoic era, which lasted from about 541 to 252 million years ago, fish, amphibians, and reptiles first appeared in the fossil record. This era is often referred to as the "Age of Fishes" due to the diversification and abundance of fish during this time. It was also during this era that amphibians evolved from fish and reptiles evolved from amphibians. Therefore, the correct answer is Paleozoic.
27.
When did the earliest forms of single-celled life firs appear on Earth?
Correct Answer
D. Precambrian
Explanation
Precambrian is the correct answer because it refers to the earliest geological time period on Earth, which spans from the formation of the Earth around 4.6 billion years ago to the beginning of the Paleozoic era around 541 million years ago. During the Precambrian, the first forms of life, including single-celled organisms, emerged and evolved. This period is characterized by the development of the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and the establishment of the basic building blocks of life.
28.
When did mammals diversify and become a more dominant form of animal life?
Correct Answer
A. Cenozoic
Explanation
The correct answer is Cenozoic. During the Cenozoic era, which began around 66 million years ago, mammals experienced a significant diversification and became the dominant form of animal life. This era is also known as the "Age of Mammals" because it saw the emergence and evolution of various mammalian groups, including primates, cetaceans, and ungulates. The extinction of the dinosaurs at the end of the Mesozoic era created ecological opportunities for mammals to thrive and occupy different niches, leading to their widespread success and diversification during the Cenozoic era.
29.
When did the Dinosaurs become a dominant form of animal life?
Correct Answer
B. Mesozoic
Explanation
During the Mesozoic era, which lasted from about 252 to 66 million years ago, dinosaurs became the dominant form of animal life on Earth. This era is often referred to as the "Age of Dinosaurs" due to the widespread presence and diversity of these reptiles. The Mesozoic era is divided into three periods: the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous. It was during these periods that dinosaurs evolved and thrived, occupying various ecological niches and becoming the dominant terrestrial animals of their time.
30.
Which era ended with the greatest mass extinction (The Great Dying) in the history of the Earth?
Correct Answer
C. Paleozoic
Explanation
The Paleozoic era ended with the greatest mass extinction in the history of the Earth, known as "The Great Dying." This event occurred about 252 million years ago and resulted in the extinction of approximately 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial species. The cause of this mass extinction is still debated, but it is believed to be a combination of volcanic activity, climate change, and asteroid impacts. The extinction event marked the end of the Paleozoic era and the beginning of the Mesozoic era.
31.
We are currently living in which geologic era?
Correct Answer
A. Cenozoic
Explanation
The Cenozoic era is the correct answer because it is the current geologic era in which we are living. It began about 65 million years ago and is characterized by the diversification of mammals, birds, and flowering plants. The Cenozoic era is also known as the "Age of Mammals" and includes the present time.
32.
According to the fossil record, for almost 4 billion years of geologic history, there were no complex multi-celled organisms on Earth.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the fossil record, which provides evidence of past life on Earth, shows that for nearly 4 billion years, there were no complex multi-celled organisms. This means that during this period, life on Earth was predominantly composed of single-celled organisms. The emergence of complex multi-celled organisms occurred much later in Earth's history.
33.
What are the two primary conditions necessary for the preservation of the remains of organisms as fossils?
Correct Answer
C. Rapid burial and the possession of hard parts such as bones or shells.
Explanation
Rapid burial is necessary for the preservation of remains because it prevents decomposition and exposure to scavengers. The possession of hard parts such as bones or shells is important because they are more likely to be preserved and fossilized compared to soft tissues.
34.
Which of the following is NOT true about fossils?
Correct Answer
E. Fossils have documented that the complex forms of animal life that we see today are also found in the oldest rocks indicating that life has changed very little over geologic time.
Explanation
Fossils have not documented that the complex forms of animal life that we see today are also found in the oldest rocks indicating that life has changed very little over geologic time.
35.
A chemical compound is:
Correct Answer
C. A substance in which atoms of two or more different elements are chemically bonded.
Explanation
The correct answer is "A substance in which atoms of two or more different elements are chemically bonded." This answer accurately describes a chemical compound, which is a substance formed when atoms of different elements combine together through chemical bonds. This definition distinguishes a chemical compound from a substance made of only one type of atom (element), a substance formed only from covalent bonds, a substance formed only from ionic bonds, and a substance that is organic in composition.
36.
When water is transformed from a liquid to a solid, the change is classified as a:
Correct Answer
B. pHysical change
Explanation
When water is transformed from a liquid to a solid, it undergoes a physical change. This is because the molecules in water rearrange themselves to form a solid structure, but the chemical composition of water remains the same. The change from liquid to solid is a result of cooling or freezing, which causes the water molecules to slow down and come closer together, forming a solid lattice. This change can be reversed by heating the solid, causing it to melt back into a liquid, further supporting the classification of this change as a physical change.
37.
Chemical bond form when:
Correct Answer
E. Valence electrons in the outermost shells are transferred or shared between atoms.
Explanation
Chemical bonds are formed when valence electrons in the outermost shells of atoms are either transferred or shared between atoms. This process allows atoms to achieve a more stable electron configuration, resulting in the formation of new compounds. Transferring electrons creates ionic bonds, where one atom loses electrons and becomes positively charged while another atom gains electrons and becomes negatively charged. Sharing electrons creates covalent bonds, where atoms share electron pairs to achieve a full outer shell. Both types of bonding result in the formation of chemical compounds with unique properties.
38.
If container becomes solder as chemical reaction occurs inside it, then the reaction is:
Correct Answer
B. Endothermic
Explanation
If the container becomes colder as a chemical reaction occurs inside it, it indicates that heat is being absorbed from the surroundings. This suggests that the reaction is endothermic, as it requires an input of energy to proceed.
39.
Catalysts increase the rate of chemical reaction by increasing the activation energy required for reaction to take place.
Correct Answer
B. Fals
Explanation
Catalysts actually decrease the activation energy required for a chemical reaction to occur, thereby increasing the rate of the reaction. They do this by providing an alternative pathway for the reaction with a lower activation energy. This allows more reactant molecules to have sufficient energy to overcome the activation energy barrier and form the products. Therefore, the given statement is false.
40.
Which of the following would NOT increase the rate of a chemical reaction?
Correct Answer
D. Reducing the temperature.
Explanation
Reducing the temperature would not increase the rate of a chemical reaction because temperature is a factor that affects the reaction rate. Generally, increasing the temperature increases the kinetic energy of the reactant molecules, leading to more frequent and energetic collisions, which in turn increases the reaction rate. However, reducing the temperature would have the opposite effect, decreasing the kinetic energy of the reactant molecules and reducing the frequency and energy of collisions, resulting in a slower reaction rate.
41.
According to the Law of Conservation of Mass, which of the following explains why you have to keep refilling your gas tank?
Correct Answer
C. The atoms (mass) of gasoline are rearranged and converted into exhaust fumes.
Explanation
According to the Law of Conservation of Mass, mass cannot be created or destroyed, only rearranged. Therefore, the correct answer is that the atoms (mass) of gasoline are rearranged and converted into exhaust fumes. This means that while the gasoline is being burned in the engine, the atoms are being rearranged and transformed into the gases that make up the exhaust fumes, causing the need to refill the gas tank.
42.
Entropy is defined as:
Correct Answer
E. The degree to which energy has become dispersed.
Explanation
Entropy is a measure of the degree to which energy has become dispersed in a system. It is a concept in thermodynamics that quantifies the randomness or disorder of a system. As energy spreads out and becomes more evenly distributed, the entropy of the system increases. This means that a system with high entropy is more disordered and has less available energy to do work. In contrast, a system with low entropy is more ordered and has more available energy. Therefore, the correct answer is "The degree to which energy has become dispersed."
43.
What type of reactions tend to occur all by themselves without the continuous input of energy?
Correct Answer
A. Exothermic reactions, because they increase entropy.
Explanation
Exothermic reactions release energy in the form of heat, which allows them to occur spontaneously without the need for continuous input of energy. Additionally, these reactions tend to increase the overall entropy or disorder of the system, which further drives their spontaneity. Therefore, exothermic reactions are more likely to occur without the continuous input of energy compared to endothermic reactions.
44.
Which formation is the oldest?
Correct Answer
C. Siletz River Formation
Explanation
The Siletz River Formation is the oldest formation among the options given. This can be inferred based on the principle of superposition, which states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the oldest rocks are found at the bottom. Since the Siletz River Formation is listed last in the options, it can be concluded that it is the oldest formation.
45.
Which formation is the youngest?
Correct Answer
D. River Terrace Sediments
Explanation
River Terrace Sediments are the youngest formation because they are typically formed by the erosion and deposition of sediments from rivers onto terraces. These sediments are relatively recent, as they are constantly being deposited and reworked by the river. In contrast, Gabbro Dike, Tyee Formation, and Siletz River Formation are all older formations that have been in existence for a longer period of time.
46.
What type of unconformity exists between the River Terrace sediments and the Tyee Formation?
Correct Answer
A. Angular Unconformity
Explanation
The correct answer is Angular Unconformity. Angular unconformity refers to a type of unconformity where the older sedimentary layers are tilted or folded and then eroded before the deposition of younger sedimentary layers. In this case, the River Terrace sediments and the Tyee Formation show a significant difference in their orientation, indicating a period of deformation and erosion before the deposition of the Tyee Formation.
47.
Which of these is true about the relative age of the Gabbro Dike?
Correct Answer
B. Older than the River Terrace Sediments and younger than Tyee Formation.
Explanation
The Gabbro Dike is older than the River Terrace Sediments because it is stated that it is "older than the River Terrace Sediments." It is also younger than the Tyee Formation because it is stated that it is "younger than Tyee Formation."
48.
Beta particle radiation is:
Correct Answer
A. High speed electrons emitted by an unstable atomic nucleus.
Explanation
Beta particle radiation refers to high-speed electrons that are emitted by an unstable atomic nucleus. These electrons are produced during beta decay, a radioactive process where a neutron in the nucleus is converted into a proton, and an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino are emitted. The emission of these high-speed electrons contributes to the overall radioactivity of the unstable nucleus.
49.
A disconformity is fond where:
Correct Answer
C. There is and erosion surface between horizontal layers of rock representing a gap in the geological record.
Explanation
This answer is correct because a disconformity is a type of unconformity where there is an erosion surface between horizontal layers of rock, representing a gap in the geological record. In other words, there is a period of time missing from the rock record due to erosion before the deposition of the younger sedimentary rock layers. This can occur when there is a pause in sedimentation or when the previously deposited layers are uplifted and eroded before new layers are deposited on top.
50.
If container becomes warmer as chemical reaction occurs inside it, then the reaction is:
Correct Answer
A. Exothermic
Explanation
If the container becomes warmer as a chemical reaction occurs inside it, it indicates that heat is being released into the surroundings. This is characteristic of an exothermic reaction, where energy is being released from the system.