BMST Earth's Geological Cycles 5

Question 1

What is the primary mechanism by which heat from Earth's interior reaches the surface through the mantle?

Accepted Answer

Convection

Answer

Convection currents in the mantle transfer heat from Earth's hot interior upward toward the crust, driving plate tectonics.

Question 2

In the phosphorus cycle, where is most of Earth's phosphorus stored?

Accepted Answer

Rocks and sediments

Answer

Unlike carbon and nitrogen, phosphorus has no atmospheric phase — the vast majority is stored in rocks and sediments.

Question 3

Which type of seismic wave travels only along Earth's surface and causes the most damage during an earthquake?

Accepted Answer

Surface waves

Answer

Surface waves travel along the ground surface and have a rolling or shaking motion that causes the greatest structural damage in earthquakes.

Question 4

What geological time scale feature is used to identify boundaries between major periods based on mass extinctions?

Accepted Answer

Fossil assemblages

Answer

Changes in fossil assemblages — particularly mass extinctions — are the primary markers used to define boundaries between geological periods.

Question 5

How does the infiltration of rainwater contribute to the geological cycle?

Accepted Answer

It weathers rocks and dissolves minerals, eventually reaching groundwater

Answer

Infiltrating rainwater chemically weathers rocks, dissolves minerals, and carries them into groundwater systems as part of the hydrological and rock cycles.

BMST - Basic Math and Science Test Practice Test

BMST - Basic Math and Science Test Practice Test

BMST Earth's Geological Cycles 5