Lesson 1: Has Earth Changed?
Earth's surface is arranged in these sheet-like structures.
What are layers?
Earth's surface can change when this process breaks rocks into smaller pieces.
What is weathering?
Earth's surface can change when this process carries away small bits of weathered rocks.
What is erosion?
What do we call a long chain of mountains that are close together?
mountain range
What do we call events in nature that can cause harm or injury?
natural hazards/natural disasters
If I am looking at a rock that has layers, which layer is the oldest?
The layer at the bottom.
wind, water, ice, plants
Name the four agents of erosion.
wind, water, ice, gravity
What do we call a long, deep, narrow channel on the ocean floor?
ocean trench
Which of the following is not considered a natural hazard: tsunami, flood, volcano, thunderstorm, earthquake
thunderstorm
TRUE or FALSE: Over time, a small river can cut a large canyon in Earth's surface.
True
Describe the process by which water can weather rocks.
As the water flows past the rocks, it breaks off little pieces.
In order to be considered a fair test, how many variables can be changed throughout the entire experiment?
one
TRUE or FALSE: Most earthquakes and volcanoes occur in the same places.
True
What do we call a natural hazard when the Earth's crust moves and shakes?
earthquake
If I find a fossilized seashell in a desert, what does that tell me about that area of land?
It was once underwater.
Describe the process by which plants can weather rocks.
The roots of plants can squeeze into the cracks of rocks, widening the cracks and causing the rocks to fall apart.
TRUE or FALSE: Erosion can happen without weathering.
false
What is the name of the area around the Pacific Ocean where 3/4 of Earth's active volcanoes are located and 9/10 of all earthquakes occur?
Ring of Fire
What do we call a natural hazard when a "wall of water" moves inland from the ocean?
tsunami
If I find fossilized remains of land-dwelling organisms under a layer containing the fossilized remains of ocean-dwelling organisms, what does that tell me about that area of land?
It was once dry, but was then underwater.
When a rock is weathered, what are the small pieces of rock called?
sediment
Name the three processes (in order) that break rock into smaller pieces, carry those pieces away, and then drop those pieces in another place.
weathering, erosion, deposition
Why are the majority of Earth's active volcanoes and earthquakes found in the Ring of Fire?
The Ring of Fire is where multiple tectonic plates meet.
Scientists do not have a way to accurately predict when an earthquake will occur. What do they focus on in order to protect people and their property from damage?
Building structures that are able to withstand earthquakes and can minimize destruction