Earth's Resources and Geoscience Processes

What is a mineral resource?

• A type of plant found in rainforests

• A naturally occurring substance that is mined for economic value

• A type of animal found in the ocean

• A man-made material used in construction

Answer explanation

A mineral resource is defined as a naturally occurring substance that is mined for economic value, distinguishing it from plants, animals, and man-made materials.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Which of the following is an example of a geoscience process?

• Photosynthesis

• Erosion

• Cellular respiration

• Combustion

Answer explanation

Erosion is a geoscience process that involves the wearing away of soil and rock by natural forces like water and wind. In contrast, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and combustion are biological or chemical processes.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Explain how the distribution of groundwater resources can be uneven across different regions.

• Groundwater is evenly distributed because it is found everywhere.

• Groundwater distribution is uneven due to variations in rainfall, geology, and human usage.

• Groundwater is only found in deserts.

• Groundwater is evenly distributed because it is controlled by humans.

Answer explanation

Groundwater distribution is influenced by factors like rainfall patterns, geological formations, and human activities such as extraction and land use, leading to significant regional variations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Describe a method used to locate mineral resources.

• Using a telescope to observe the sky

• Conducting geological surveys and sampling

• Planting trees in a specific area

• Observing animal migration patterns

Answer explanation

The correct method to locate mineral resources is by conducting geological surveys and sampling. This involves studying rock formations and collecting samples to identify the presence of minerals, unlike the other options which are unrelated.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Why is it important to understand the geoscience processes that lead to the formation of mineral resources?

• To predict weather patterns

• To improve agricultural practices

• To manage and utilize these resources sustainably

• To develop new species of plants

Answer explanation

Understanding geoscience processes is crucial for managing and utilizing mineral resources sustainably, ensuring that we can meet current needs without compromising future availability and environmental health.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

How does the process of plate tectonics contribute to the distribution of Earth's mineral resources?

• It has no effect on mineral distribution.

• It causes the formation and movement of mineral-rich areas.

• It only affects the distribution of water resources.

• It prevents the formation of mineral resources.

Answer explanation

Plate tectonics plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's crust, leading to the formation and movement of mineral-rich areas. This process creates deposits of valuable minerals through geological activities like volcanic eruptions and mountain building.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

What is the primary source of energy for the water cycle, which affects groundwater distribution?

• The Moon

• The Sun

• The Earth's core

• Human activity

Answer explanation

The primary source of energy for the water cycle is the Sun. It drives evaporation, which is essential for groundwater distribution, making it the correct answer.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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Identify a factor that can lead to the depletion of groundwater resources.

• Increased rainfall

• Over-extraction for agricultural and industrial use

• Planting more trees

• Building more dams

Answer explanation

Over-extraction for agricultural and industrial use significantly depletes groundwater resources as it exceeds the natural replenishment rate, leading to a decline in water availability.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

What role do glaciers play in the distribution of Earth's mineral resources?

• They have no role in mineral distribution.

• They transport and deposit minerals as they move.

• They only affect the distribution of water resources.

• They prevent the formation of mineral resources.

Answer explanation

Glaciers play a significant role in mineral distribution by transporting and depositing minerals as they move. This process can lead to the accumulation of various minerals in different locations, influencing their availability.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Evaluate the impact of human activities on the distribution of Earth's mineral resources.

• Human activities have no impact on mineral distribution.

• Human activities can lead to the depletion and uneven distribution of mineral resources.

• Human activities only affect the distribution of water resources.

• Human activities always lead to an increase in mineral resources.

Answer explanation

Human activities, such as mining and industrial processes, can deplete mineral resources and cause their uneven distribution across regions, making this the correct choice.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4