Earth Processes

Examine the diagram below. In terms of tectonic plates, what do the red arrows represent in the diagram?

• The arrows represent energy transfer via conduction, which contributes to the extremely hot temperatures of the Inner Core.

• The arrows are showing the movement of a trench, which results from less dense and cooler rock returning to the Outer Core.

• The arrows represent convection currents, which contributes to the movement of tectonic plates.

• The arrows show how cooler rock from the outer core is rising towards the lithosphere, thus causing tectonic plate movement.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

When Alfred Wegener proposed the theory of Continental Drift, most scientists were skeptical of his theory and often debated the evidence that Wegener used to support his conclusion. After Wegener died, evidence became available due to advances in technology during World War II. Which of the following represents data that is available today, that Wegener did not already use as evidence, that would have strengthened his theory? [Select TWO choices]

• A. Similar Fossils

  on Differernt Continents

• B. Sea Floor Spreading

• C. Continents "Fitting" together

• D. Convection Currents

• E. Similar Rocks on Different Continents

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Earth's tectonic plates move on the Earth's surface. Scientists believe forces under the Earth's surface cause this movement. Which of the following BEST explains the cause of this movement?

• The core is a hot, dense ball of (mostly) iron. Heat is transferred by conduction to the plates and it is the cause of plate movement.

• Radiation from the Sun heats up the surface of the Earth, causing the plates to move.

• Convection currents within the Earth are the driving force behind plate movement.

• The core is boiling liquid material. The gases created by this boiling action cause the plates to move.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

The fossils of an extinct mammal-like reptile (Cynognathus) were found both in South America and Africa. The Cynognathus was as large as a modern wolf and lived during the Triassic period (240 MYA). How does Cynognathus support the theory of continental drift?

• The Cynognathus species became extinct due to changes in South America’s climate; however, the species survived in Africa.

• The Cynognathus species evolved separately in South America and Africa until the two continents drifted together.

• The Cynognathus species began in South America, but migrated (via swimming) to Africa, thus showing the two continents were separated.

• Because South America and Africa were once joined, this reptile lived, moved, and reproduced across the region.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

A student studied the discovery of fossils of tropical plant species in Arctic region rocks. Which of these is the most likely scientific explanation for this discovery?

• Ancient civilizations transported fossils to the Arctic.

• The Arctic region once had a tropical climate long ago.

• Tropical plants adapted to survive in cold climates over time.

• Ocean currents carried the fossils from tropical areas to the Arctic.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

The image shows a region before and after the formation of a rift valley. Which type of plate movement must have resulted in the landform?

• continent-continent divergent plate movements

• continent-continent transform plate movements

• continent-oceanic convergent plate movements

• continent-continent convergent plate movements

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Identify a convergent plate movement by selecting the correct circle in the image below.

• Circle 1

• Circle 2

• Circle 3

• Circle 4

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

A group of researchers found identical fossils on the coasts of two continents separated by a vast ocean. What might it suggest?

• The animals had the ability to fly.

• The fossils were placed there by humans.

• The continents were once joined together.

• The animals traveled vast distances across the ocean.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

A student was telling her class about noticing erosion while at the beach on vacation. What did the student most likely see happening on the beach that is an example of erosion?

• children building sandcastles

• crabs digging holes in the sand

• seaweed washing up on the shore

• waves carrying away rocks and sand

Tags

NGSS.4-ESS2-1

What does the presence of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge signify?

• It is the deepest part of the ocean.

• It is a habitat with maximum marine life.

• The region is unaffected by tectonic activity.

• Tectonic plates are moving apart at this location.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3