Environmental Science Natural Disasters and Environmental Hazards

Question 1

Which type of natural hazard is primarily caused by the movement of tectonic plates along fault lines?

Accepted Answer

Earthquakes

Answer

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy as tectonic plates slip or fracture along fault lines.

Question 2

The Richter scale is used to measure which characteristic of an earthquake?

Accepted Answer

Magnitude (energy released)

Answer

The Richter scale quantifies the magnitude, or total energy released, by an earthquake using seismograph readings.

Question 3

Which atmospheric condition is the primary driver for the formation of a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

Warm ocean surface temperatures above 79°F (26°C)

Answer

Hurricanes require warm ocean surface water (at least 26°C/79°F) to provide the heat and moisture energy that fuels their development.

Question 4

A tsunami is most commonly triggered by which event?

Accepted Answer

A large submarine earthquake or undersea landslide

Answer

Most tsunamis are generated by large submarine earthquakes that displace the ocean floor, causing a series of powerful waves.

Question 5

What is the term for the geographic zone around a volcano where the most severe pyroclastic hazards are likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Exclusion zone

Answer

An exclusion zone is the designated area around an active volcano where access is restricted due to the high risk of pyroclastic flows, ash fall, and lahars.

Environmental Science Practice Test

Environmental Science Practice Test

Environmental Science Natural Disasters and Environmental Hazards