Ocean Floor Mapping Quiz

What is bathymetry?

• Assessment of the ocean floor

• Index of marine sediments

• Measurement of ocean depths

• Analysis of ocean currents

Answer explanation

Bathymetry is the measurement of ocean depths, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

When was the echo sounder (sonar) invented?

• 1920s

• 1800s

• 2000s

• 1950s

Answer explanation

The echo sounder (sonar) was invented in the 1920s, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What marks the seaward edge of the continental shelf?

• Continental slope

• Abyssal plains

• Submarine canyons

• Continental rise

Answer explanation

The seaward edge of the continental shelf is marked by the Continental slope.

Where are active continental margins primarily located?

• Around the Atlantic Ocean

• Around the Arctic Ocean

• Around the Indian Ocean

• Around the Pacific Ocean

Answer explanation

Active continental margins are primarily located around the Pacific Ocean, making it the correct choice.

The following choices are associated with deep-ocean trenches except for which?

• Subduction zones

• Volcanic activity

• Sediment deposit

• Continental rise

Answer explanation

Deep-ocean trenches are associated with subduction zones and volcanic activity, but not with sediment deposit or continental rise.

What type of sediment is weathered from continental rocks?

• Volcanic sediment

• Biogenous sediment

• Terrigenous sediment

• Hydrogenous sediment

Answer explanation

Terrigenous sediment is weathered from continental rocks, making it the correct choice.

Where do coarse terrigenous deposits dominate?

• Mid-ocean ridges

• Deep-ocean basins

• Continental margins

• Abyssal plains

Answer explanation

Coarse terrigenous deposits dominate at continental margins due to the proximity to land sources where these sediments are transported and deposited.

What comprises only a small portion of marine sediment deposits?

• Terrigenous sediment

• Volcanic sediment

• Biogenous sediment

• Hydrogenous sediment

Answer explanation

Hydrogenous sediment comprises only a small portion of marine sediment deposits, making it the correct choice.

Which major topographic division of the ocean floor consists of layer upon layer of basaltic rocks?

• Mid-ocean ridge

• Continental margins

• Ocean basin floor

• Seamounts

Answer explanation

The major topographic division of the ocean floor consisting of layer upon layer of basaltic rocks is the Mid-ocean ridge.

During a marine biology expedition, researchers discovered a type of sediment that comprises shells and skeletons of marine organisms. What is this type of sediment called?

• Biogenous sediment

• Terrigenous sediment

• Volcanic sediment

• Hydrogenous sediment

Answer explanation

The correct type of sediment that comprises shells and skeletons of marine organisms is called biogenous sediment.