Unit 9: Earth and beyond

Which of the following provides evidence for the theory of tectonic plates?

• The uniform distribution of fossils across all continents.

• The jigsaw-like fit of continental coastlines.

• The absence of volcanic activity along tectonic boundaries.

• The stability of the Earth's crust.

How does the alignment of magnetic materials in the Earth's crust support plate tectonics?

• It shows random magnetic patterns on the ocean floor.

• It indicates the historical reversal of Earth's magnetic field.

• It demonstrates how volcanic activity influences magnetism.

• It only affects continental plates, not oceanic plates.

What does the fossil record indicate about past continental positions?

• Identical species are found only in tropical regions.

• Similar fossils are found on continents that are now widely separated.

• Fossils show no change in distribution over time.

• Fossils are only found near tectonic boundaries.

Why are earthquakes and volcanoes primarily found along tectonic boundaries?

• Because these areas are geologically inactive.

• Due to the intense heat and pressure from mantle plumes.

• Tectonic boundaries are where plates interact, causing geological activity.

• They occur randomly without relation to plate boundaries.

What geological feature is commonly associated with divergent plate boundaries?

• High mountain ranges

• Deep ocean trenches

• Mid-ocean ridges

• Volcanic islands only at convergent boundaries

What causes tectonic plates to move?

• The rotation of the Earth

• Convection currents in the mantle

• Tidal forces from the Moon

• Wind erosion on the Earth's surface

Which term describes the type of plate boundary where two plates move away from each other?

• Convergent

• Divergent

• Transform

• Fault

What role does viscosity play in the movement of convection currents?

• It makes the mantle solid and prevents movement.

• Higher viscosity slows down the movement of mantle material.

• Viscosity has no effect on mantle convection.

• Low viscosity increases the density of the mantle.

At which type of boundary do convection currents cause tectonic plates to collide?

• Divergent

• Convergent

• Transform

• Parallel

What geological event is most likely to occur at a transform boundary?

• Formation of mid-ocean ridges

• Subduction of oceanic crust

• Earthquakes

• Creation of volcanic islands