Earth Science Quiz S1 #4

What process changes sedimentary rock into metamorphic rock?

• Erosion

• Melting

• Compaction

• Heat and pressure

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rock transforms into metamorphic rock through the process of heat and pressure, which alters its mineral composition and structure without melting it.

Which of the following is an intrusive igneous rock?

• Basalt

• Granite

• Obsidian

• Pumice

Answer explanation

Granite is an intrusive igneous rock formed from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, allowing large crystals to form. In contrast, basalt, obsidian, and pumice are extrusive igneous rocks formed from lava that cools quickly.

What is the primary component of magma?

• Iron

• Water

• Silica

• Carbon

Answer explanation

The primary component of magma is silica, which is crucial in determining its viscosity and behavior during volcanic eruptions. Other elements like iron, water, and carbon are present but not as predominant as silica.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

Which process involves the breakdown of rocks at Earth's surface?

• Deposition

• Weathering

• Metamorphism

• Lithification

Answer explanation

Weathering is the process that involves the breakdown of rocks at Earth's surface due to various factors like temperature changes, water, and biological activity. It is distinct from deposition, metamorphism, and lithification.

Which of the following processes is part of the rock cycle?

• Photosynthesis

• Evaporation

• Crystallization

• Sublimation

Answer explanation

Crystallization is a key process in the rock cycle, where minerals form from cooling magma or evaporating solutions, contributing to the formation of igneous and sedimentary rocks. The other processes listed are not part of the rock cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

What is the term for molten rock beneath the Earth's surface?

• Lava

• Magma

• Basalt

• Obsidian

• Granite

Answer explanation

The term for molten rock beneath the Earth's surface is magma. When it erupts onto the surface, it is called lava. Basalt, obsidian, and granite are types of rock formed from cooled magma or lava.

Which mineral is commonly found in igneous rocks?

• Halite

• Quartz

• Gypsum

• Calcite

Answer explanation

Quartz is a common mineral found in igneous rocks, formed from the crystallization of magma. In contrast, halite, gypsum, and calcite are typically associated with sedimentary environments.

What kind of texture does granite typically have?

• Glassy

• Coarse-grained

• Fine-grained

• Vesicular

Answer explanation

Granite typically has a coarse-grained texture, characterized by large, visible crystals of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica. This distinguishes it from fine-grained or glassy textures found in other rocks.

Which rock is formed from the compaction and cementation of sediments?

• Sandstone

• Marble

• Slate

• Gabbro

Answer explanation

Sandstone is formed from the compaction and cementation of sand-sized sediments, making it a sedimentary rock. In contrast, marble is metamorphic, slate is a metamorphic rock from shale, and gabbro is an igneous rock.

What is the primary agent of erosion?

• Wind

• Water

• Gravity

• Ice

Answer explanation

Water is the primary agent of erosion as it can transport sediments through rivers, rain, and waves, shaping landscapes over time. While wind, gravity, and ice also contribute, water is the most significant force in erosion.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4