Quiz on Earth's Spheres

Which sphere includes oceans and rivers?

• Lithosphere

• Hydrosphere

• Atmosphere

• Biosphere

Answer explanation

The hydrosphere encompasses all water bodies on Earth, including oceans and rivers. Therefore, the correct answer is the hydrosphere, as it specifically includes these water features.

Which continent is shown to fit with South America in the diagram?

• Africa

• Asia

• Europe

• Antarctica

Answer explanation

The diagram likely illustrates the fit of continents based on plate tectonics. Africa aligns closely with the eastern edge of South America, supporting the theory of continental drift, making Africa the correct choice.

Which type of boundary is most likely to cause earthquakes?

• Divergent

• Convergent

• Transform

• Erosive

Answer explanation

Transform boundaries are where tectonic plates slide past each other, causing friction and stress that can lead to earthquakes. This makes them the most likely type of boundary to cause seismic activity.

What is the process by which new oceanic crust is created?

• Subduction

• Seafloor spreading

• Erosion

• Sedimentation

Answer explanation

Seafloor spreading is the process where new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart, allowing magma to rise and solidify. This is distinct from subduction, erosion, and sedimentation.

What is the term for the area where two tectonic plates meet and move towards each other?

• Divergent zone

• Transform fault

• Convergent boundary

• Rift valley

Answer explanation

The area where two tectonic plates meet and move towards each other is called a convergent boundary. This is where plates collide, often leading to mountain formation or subduction, unlike divergent zones or transform faults.

At a convergent boundary, what is likely to occur?

• Formation of new crust

• Earthquakes and mountain formation

• Creation of oceanic ridges

• Formation of rift valleys

Answer explanation

At a convergent boundary, tectonic plates collide, leading to intense pressure that causes earthquakes and the uplift of land, resulting in mountain formation. This makes 'Earthquakes and mountain formation' the correct choice.

Which plate goes under in a subduction zone?

• The less dense plate.

• The more dense plate.

• The lighter plate.

• The smaller plate.

Answer explanation

In a subduction zone, the more dense plate sinks beneath the less dense plate. This process occurs because denser oceanic plates are typically subducted under lighter continental plates.

What is the lithosphere?

• The outermost layer of Earth

• The innermost layer of Earth

• The middle layer of Earth

• The core of Earth

Answer explanation

The lithosphere is defined as the outermost layer of Earth, which includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. This distinguishes it from the innermost layers, such as the core.

Which layer of Earth is involved in subduction?

• Core

• Mantle

• Lithosphere

• Atmosphere

Answer explanation

The lithosphere, which includes the Earth's crust and the upper part of the mantle, is involved in subduction. This process occurs when one tectonic plate moves under another, leading to geological activity.

What geological feature is created alongside volcanoes during subduction?

• Mountains

• Trenches

• Valleys

• Plateaus

Answer explanation

Trenches are formed at subduction zones where one tectonic plate is forced under another. This process creates deep oceanic trenches alongside volcanic activity, making trenches the correct answer.