Earth Science Semester 1 Exam Questions with Correct Answers

Earth Science Semester 1 Exam Questions with Correct Answers List and briefly describe the sciences that collectively make up Earth science. - Answer-Geology - this is the study of the solid Earth. Physical geology examines the materials that comprise the Earth and historical geology aims to understand the origins and development of the planet. Oceanography - examines the composition and dynamics of the world's oceans. It also involves the study of coastal processes and seafloor topography as well as marine life. Meteorology - this is the study of Earth's atmosphere. It includes weather and climate. Astronomy - this examines Earth as a body in space, both as part of the solar system and as part of a larger universe. Environmental science - includes the study of natural resources, environmental hazards, and how people influence their environments and Earth processes. Name the two broad subdivisions of geology and distinguish between them. - Answer-Physical geology - this is the study of the materials and processes that define the planet Earth. It includes the study of Earth's composition, events such as volcanism, and the dynamics of Earth processes such as plate tectonics. Historical geology - this is the study of the origins and evolution of Earth. It pieces together a chronological history of Earth based on clues in the rock record. These clues can include evidence of physical and biological changes throughout Earth's 4.6 billion year history. List at least four different natural hazards. - Answer-volcanoes, floods, tsunami, earthquakes, landslides, and hurricanes. Aside from natural hazards, describe another important connection between people and Earth science. Humans influence Earth by altering its surface. People build cities and roads, and engineer projects that alter river flooding patterns. People pollute the air, the land, and the water, changing Earth from what is its natural state. - Answer-Humans influence Earth by altering its surface. People build cities and roads, and engineer projects that alter river flooding patterns. People pollute the air, the land, and the water, changing Earth from what is its natural state. List two examples of size/place scales in Earth science that are at opposite ends of the spectrum. - Answer-A lightning flash happens within a fraction of a second but can instantly alter the immediate landscape. Uplift of mountain ranges takes tens to hundreds of millions of years to occur. How old is Earth? - Answer-4.6 billion years