Earth Science Quiz SS

Which of the following is an igneous rock?

• Granite

• Shale

• Limestone

• Conglomerate

Answer explanation

Granite is an igneous rock formed from the cooling and solidification of magma. In contrast, shale, limestone, and conglomerate are sedimentary rocks, making granite the correct choice.

Sedimentary rocks are most often formed by:

• Heat and pressure

• Cooling of magma

• Compaction and cementation of sediments

• Melting of rocks

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rocks are primarily formed through the compaction and cementation of sediments, which accumulate over time. This process distinguishes them from igneous and metamorphic rocks, which form through different geological processes.

Which rock type is formed when existing rocks change due to heat and pressure?

• Igneous

• Sedimentary

• Metamorphic

• Fossiliferous

Answer explanation

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks undergo changes due to intense heat and pressure, altering their mineral composition and structure. This distinguishes them from igneous and sedimentary rocks.

Which rock type commonly contains fossils?

• Igneous

• Metamorphic

• Sedimentary

• None

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediments and are the most common type to contain fossils, as they preserve the remains of organisms that lived in ancient environments.

What is the correct order of Earth's main layers from outermost to innermost?

• Crust → Mantle → Outer core → Inner core

• Crust → Outer core → Mantle → Inner core

• Mantle → Crust → Inner core → Outer core

• Crust → Mantle → Inner core → Outer core

Answer explanation

The correct order of Earth's layers from outermost to innermost is Crust, Mantle, Outer core, and Inner core. This sequence reflects the structure of the Earth, with the crust being the surface layer and the inner core being the deepest.

The lithosphere is made up of:

• Mantle only

• Crust only

• Crust and uppermost mantle

• Outer core and inner core

Answer explanation

The lithosphere consists of the Earth's crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. This combination forms the rigid outer layer of the Earth, making 'Crust and uppermost mantle' the correct answer.

The asthenosphere is located:

• Within the inner core

• In the upper mantle beneath the lithosphere

• In the crust

• In the outer core

Answer explanation

The asthenosphere is a semi-fluid layer located in the upper mantle, just beneath the lithosphere. It plays a crucial role in tectonic plate movement, unlike the other options which refer to different layers of the Earth.

Which layer of Earth is liquid and generates the magnetic field?

• Crust

• Mantle

• Outer core

• Inner core

Answer explanation

The outer core is the only layer of Earth that is liquid and is responsible for generating the planet's magnetic field through the movement of molten iron and nickel.

At which type of plate boundary do plates move apart?

• Convergent

• Divergent

• Transform

• Subduction

Answer explanation

Plates move apart at divergent boundaries, where new crust is formed as magma rises to the surface. This process contrasts with convergent boundaries, where plates collide, and transform boundaries, where plates slide past each other.

At which type of plate boundary do plates slide past each other?

• Convergent

• Divergent

• Transform

• Rift

Answer explanation

Plates slide past each other at transform boundaries. Unlike convergent and divergent boundaries, which involve plates moving towards or away from each other, transform boundaries allow lateral movement.