Semester 1 Final Exam Flashcard Review

Front

What is the main type of weathering in the desert?

Back

Mechanical weathering is the main type of weathering in the desert, characterized by physical processes that break down rocks without changing their chemical composition.

Front

What are examples of fossil fuels?

Back

Oil, coal, and natural gas are all examples of fossil fuels, which are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient organisms.

Front

What scale is used to determine the hardness of a mineral?

Back

Moh's Scale of Hardness is used to determine the hardness of minerals, ranking them from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond) based on their ability to scratch one another.

Front

How long does it take for the first P-wave to be received at a station if the epicenter is 1500 miles away?

Back

Approximately 5.0 minutes after the earthquake.

Front

Which act regulates pollutants in drinking water?

Back

The Safe Drinking Water Act regulates the pollutants found in our drinking water to ensure its safety for public consumption.

Front

What is chemical weathering?

Back

Chemical weathering involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, often due to reactions with water, acids, or gases, leading to the formation of new minerals.

Front

What is mechanical weathering?

Back

Mechanical weathering is the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition, often caused by temperature changes, freeze-thaw cycles, or abrasion.

Front

What is the significance of fossil fuels?

Back

Fossil fuels are significant as they are major sources of energy for electricity, heating, and transportation, but their extraction and use contribute to environmental issues.

Front

What is the purpose of Moh's Scale of Hardness?

Back

Moh's Scale of Hardness helps identify minerals based on their scratch resistance, which is useful in geology and mineralogy.

Front

What is the role of the Clean Water Act?

Back

The Clean Water Act aims to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation's waters by preventing point and nonpoint source pollution.