Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
1.
1
The table shows the most common elements in the Earth’s crust and the approximate percentage by weight that each one represents. Which statement is true? (2000, Ch. 3, minerals)
A Iron is the most common metal in the crust. B All eight elements are metals. C Two elements comprise nearly 75% of the crust. D Oxygen and silicon are found in equal amounts.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
2. FV G VII H IX J XI
2
How should the earthquake damage in the picture be ranked according to the modified Mercalli Intensity Scale? (2000, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
3.
The graph shows the decay of radioactive isotopes. What approximate amount of the element remains after 3 half-lives have elapsed? (2000, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A 50.0% B 25.0% C 12.50% D 6.25% 4.
Each mineral has a unique crystal shape because of the — (2000, Ch. 3, minerals)
A arrangement of its atoms B hardness being between 1 and 10 C streak being constant D variations in its color 5.
3
Glass is chemically related to what mineral? (2000, Ch. 3, minerals)
F Fluorite G Quartz H Pyrite J Halite
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 6.
4
Some extrusive igneous rocks, such as obsidian, are glassy because they — (2000, Ch. 4, rocks)
A cool rapidly B have low melting points C contain water D are made of only one mineral
7.
This igneous rock is coarse-grained. The dark-colored mineral composing this rock is probably — (2000, Ch. 4, rocks)
F magnetite G kaolin H feldspar J quartz
8.
What probably caused the patterns in this rock? (2000, Ch. 8 & 9, Erosion and Deposition)
A Flowing water or wind deposits B Alternating lava and volcanic ash deposits C Evaporating salt water D Avalanches of soil and rock
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
9. FA GB HC JD
5
The chart shows the rock cycle. At which point in the cycle has the formation of sediment occurred? (2000, Ch. 4, rocks)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
10.
6
Sometimes metamorphic rock is found adjacent to an igneous intrusion, as shown in the drawing. According to geologists, what causes this phenomenon? (2000, Ch. 4, rocks)
A The metamorphic rock was lighter than the magma and floated to the top and sides. B The surrounding rock was metamorphosed when it came into contact with the hot magma. C Vapor from the magma condensed to form metamorphic rock. D The magma replaced all but the outer edge of existing metamorphic rock. 11.
Plant material that accumulates and hardens on the floor of a swamp is known as peat. If a layer of sediments accumulates on top of the peat, its weight after thousands of years can compress the peat to form coal. Which of the following types of coal probably formed from the greatest pressure? (2000, Ch. 4, rocks)
F Anthracite (the hardest coal) G Bituminous coal (softer than anthracite) H Subbituminous coal (softer than bituminous) J Lignite (the softest coal)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
12.
7
Which type of rock appears to be the most easily eroded by the river in this area? (2000, Ch. 8 & 9, Erosion and Deposition)
A Limestone B Shale C Basalt D Sandstone
13.
Which sequence best describes the construction of a delta from the youngest formation to the oldest formation? (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F A-C-B-D G C-A-D-B H C-A-B-D J B-D-A-C
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
14.
8
The picture shows the layers in the bank of a river. The differences in the size of the particles in the layers are most likely caused by differences in the — (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A speed of the water carrying the sediments B types of plants living on the bank C types of animals digging in the sediments D thickness of winter ice in the river 15.
Which of the following can result when underground water is heated by hot igneous rock? (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F Metamorphism G Geysers H Salt domes J Karst topography 16.
Which geologic event occurred first? (2000, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
A Pangaea underwent formation. B South America and Africa split apart. C Iceland formed at the mid-Atlantic ridge. D India collided with Asia, forming the Himalayan Mountains.
17.
The sketch above shows a seismogram, which is a record of the primary waves and secondary waves emitted by an earthquake. Primary waves and secondary waves are generated at the same time, but primary waves are recorded first because they — (2000, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
F travel a shorter route G travel faster H are smaller J do not travel through water
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 18.
9
Porosity is the amount of pore space in soils. Permeability is the ability of water to pass through the soil. Why do some soils have high porosity but low permeability? (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A Some soils have large pores that do not lead anywhere but simply hold groundwater. B Sandy soils dry out quickly, and the pore space fills with air which blocks the downward flow of water. C Some soils have a large volume of pore space, but the individual pores are too small to allow water to pass through. D Water with dissolved iron cannot pass through the magnetic field of soils that are rich in magnetite. 19.
In Virginia and some other parts of the world, water has carved vast caverns out of underground limestone deposits. Water, however, must contain dissolved carbon dioxide in order to break down the limestone. What role does the carbon dioxide play? (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F It supports the microscopic plant life that destroys the limestone. G It raises the freezing point so the underground water continues to flow all winter. H In water it forms an acid which reacts with limestone to produce a water-soluble substance. J It reduces viscosity so the water flows more quickly.
20.
Which aspect of this rock formation occurred at the earliest time? (2000, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F The top sedimentary layer labeled A G The igneous intrusion labeled B H The fault labeled C J The folding of layers labeled D
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
21.
10
Scientists use drill core samples to study the underlying rock structure. These two core samples were obtained from the ocean floor from locations separated by 10 km. Which layer in core sample two is the youngest? (2000, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A Clay B Limestone C Sandstone D Siltstone
22.
The drawing shows a rock formation with several igneous intrusions. What was the sequence of the intrusions from earliest to most recent times? (2000, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F X, Y, Z G X, Z, Y H Y, X, Z J Z, Y, X
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
23.
Which type of land cover absorbs the most rainwater? (2000, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A Grassland B Crop land C Bare clay soils D Asphalt streets
11
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
24.
12
As landmasses drifted over the Earth from 180 million years ago to the present day, one significant change that occurred was the — (2000, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
A increase in overall landmass size B decrease in the number of transverse faults C increase in the number of trenches D decrease in the number of mid-ocean ridges
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
25.
13
How many advances of ice are indicated by the core sample? (2000, Ch. 8, Erosion by Gravity, Glaciers, Wind)
A Two B Three C Five D Eight
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
26.
14
The diagrams show that as life forms changed on Earth so did the composition of the atmosphere. The correct order of these changes over geologic time is — (2000, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
F 2, 3, 1, 4 G 2, 3, 4, 1 H 3, 4, 2, 1 J 3, 2, 4, 1
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
27.
15
These minerals may be grouped together because they all have — (2001, Ch. 3, minerals)
F the same crystal systems G constant density values H shiny streaks J the oxygen ion
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
28.
16
Scientists use drill core samples to study the underlying rock structure. These two core samples were obtained from the ocean floor from locations separated by 10 km. Which layer in core sample one does not have a matching layer in core sample two? (2001, Ch. 4, rocks)
F Basalt _ G Clay H Limestone J Sandstone 29.
The presence of many metamorphic rocks in Virginia is an indication that the area has been subjected to — (2001, Ch. 4, rocks)
A intense heat and pressure _ B limited volcanic activity C deep ocean venting D massive solar bombardment
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
30.
17
The picture shows a limestone building block. Which observation best shows that the limestone was formed from ocean sediments? (2001, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F The thickness of the rock layers G The number of fossils H The type of fossils _ J The size of the fossils
31.
What appears to have occurred at the area labeled B? (2001, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F Sediment was deposited on sloped ground. G Sediment was deposited on sloped ground that later became level. H Sediment was deposited on level ground that later tilted. _ J Sediment was deposited on level ground that stayed level.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 32.
18
Which of these energy sources produces the least harmful environmental effects? (2001, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
A Nuclear B Fossil fuels C Solar _ D Hydroelectric 33.
All of the following support the theory of continental drift except that — (2001, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
F the continents seem to fit together like pieces of a puzzle G there are similar fossils on different continents H mountain ranges in South America and Africa line up J the North Pole and Antarctica are covered with ice
34.
Which answer below matches the number in the drawing with the correct name of a sedimentary formation? (2001, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A 1-delta, 2-continental rise, 3-flood plain B 1-alluvial fan, 2-flood plain, 3-delta _ C 1-barrier island, 2-continental shelf, 3-alluvial fan D 1-continental shelf, 2-continental rise, 3-barrier island 35.
Only 3% of the Earth’s water is fresh water. The world’s oceans contain the rest of the Earth’s water. Of that 3%, three-fourths is tied up in glaciers, ice caps, and snow fields. Antarctic glaciers contain nearly 85% of all the ice in the world, and floating sea ice in the Arctic contains 10% of the ice. Sea ice freezes from ocean water, but the salt is excluded in the freezing process, resulting in mostly freshwater ice. Where is the remaining 5% of the world’s permanent supply of ice and snow? (2001, Ch. 8, Erosion by Gravity, Glaciers, Wind)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
19
F High mountain peaks _ G Permanent Arctic blizzards H Floating icebergs J Drifting Antarctic snow
36.
Which of the following major earthquakes did not occur at a boundary between tectonic plates? (2001, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
A South Carolina (U.S.A.) 1886 _ B San Francisco (U.S.A.) 1906 C Messina (southern Italy) 1908 D Chillan (Chile) 1939 37.
Sinkholes associated with natural processes are characteristic of what type of bedrock? (2001, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F Limestone _ G Granite H Basalt J Gneiss 38.
Geologists think that parts of the Appalachian Mountains formed originally from sediments accumulating in shallow swamps. The weight of the sediments caused the area beneath them to sink, allowing more sediments to accumulate. The process continued until many layers had formed. Then tectonic processes folded the layered sediments into a range of mountains. What evidence for this theory can be found in the current structure of these mountains? (2001, Ch. 6, Landforms)
A Some rocks making up these mountains show signs of volcanism. B The form of these mountains is very eroded. C The mountains exhibit folded layers of rocks containing fossils from shallow water. _ D The mountain range consists of parallel ridges of different ages.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 39.
20
Which of the following is an example of chemical weathering? (2001, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil)
A Splits in a rock due to tree roots B Pulverized rock resulting from a landslide C A rock broken into chunks after being carried by rapidly flowing water D The dissolving of limestone by acid rain
40.
Using this procedure, what property of a mineral can be found? (2001, Ch. 3, minerals)
A Crystal arrangement B Specific gravity _ C Brittleness D Fracture 41.
Because granite cools below the surface of the Earth, it is — (2001, Ch. 4, rocks)
A an igneous extrusive rock B an igneous intrusive rock _ C a sedimentary rock D a metamorphic rock 42.
All of the following are characteristics of metamorphic rocks except — (2001, Ch. 4, rocks)
F flattened crystals G colored, parallel layers H bending from pressure J holes from trapped gases
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 43.
21
Which of these best shows wind-deposited sediments? (2001, Ch. 8, Erosion by Gravity, Glaciers, Wind)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 44.
22
Not all fossils have been preserved inside soil or rock. Explorers in Siberia have discovered the bodies of ancient mammoths so well-preserved that the flesh could be eaten. What do you think preserved the mammoths in such a perfect state? (2001, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A Water B Ice _ C Leaf mold D Carbon dioxide
45.
Which layer in this area is the youngest? (2001, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F Shale _ G Sandstone H Limestone J Breccia 46.
A2 B3_ C5 D 10
What is the fewest number of seismographic stations that must record the arrival time of P and S waves in order for the epicenter of an earthquake to be located? (2001, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
47.
23
This picture shows a simple well that was dug down to the groundwater. What probably caused the lower level of groundwater, known as a “cone of depression,” in the vicinity of the well? (2001, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F The weight of the atmosphere presses down on the groundwater in the well. G The ground below the well acts as a vacuum sucking out the water. H Gravity pulls down the water beneath the well. J As water is drawn from the well, it takes time for the groundwater to percolate through the soil and restore the level. 48.
The amount of power that can be generated by a hydroelectric dam would be most dependent on which two factors? (2001, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
F The width of the dam and the construction material of the dam G The volume of water going over the dam and the distance that the water falls _ H The surface area of the reservoir and the shape of the reservoir floor J The temperature of the water and the amount of oxygen that it contains
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
49.
24
The diagram shows the distribution of different fossils. During what geologic time period would they have existed together? (2001, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A Jurassic B Triassic _ C Permian D Carboniferous 50.
Igneous rocks are formed by — (2002, Ch. 4, rocks)
A heat and pressure on existing rocks B evaporation of water, leaving solids behind C cooling and hardening of molten rock _ D layers of mud on the bottom of a lake 51.
What is the main advantage of using dams to produce electrical energy? (2002, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
F They can be built near most cities. G They do not produce much pollution. _ H They are inexpensive to build. J They do not damage wildlife homes.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
52.
25
Even though the Earth’s inner core is hotter than the liquid outer core, it is still solid because — (2002, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
A the heat rising from the inner core is melting the outer core B there is more water in the outer core and it dilutes the materials C the outer core is farther from the center, and there is less gravity holding it together D the pressure from all of Earth’s layers keeps it in a solid state 53.
Which vertebrate did not live during the time of the dinosaurs (the Mesozoic Era)? (2002, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 54.
26
Which of the following minerals found in the northern Piedmont province is known as “fool’s gold”? (2002, Ch. 3, minerals)
A Pyrite _ B Hematite C Galena D Limonite 55.
During droughts, lack of rain can lead to wells drying up. This is because the drought has lowered the — (2002, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A water table _ B water trough C zone of aeration D zone of porosity 56.
Which of these is the best evidence that the Earth’s crust has undergone some major changes? (2002, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
F The location of major rivers G The amount of available water on Earth H The presence of marine fossils in mountain rock _ J The arrival of the vernal equinox
57.
According to the graph above, a piece of timber containing one-eighth of the amount of carbon-14 that is found in a living tree died about how many years ago? (2002, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A 5,700 years B 11,400 years C 17,100 years _ D 22,800 years
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
58.
At which location are metamorphic rocks most likely to be found? (2002, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
AA BB CC_ DD 59.
Of the following, the largest division on the geologic time scale is — (2002, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
A a year B an epoch C an era _ D a period
60.
27
The formations at X and Y in the picture above were created by — (2002, Ch. 6, Landforms)
F tension G shearing H compression _ J rifting
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
61.
The picture above shows that one of the main pollution problems associated with sinkholes is that — (2002, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A they can destroy roadways B tractors can fall into them C homes can be damaged by them D they can connect directly to the water table
62.
Which of these tracks was made last? (2002, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
28
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 63.
29
In karst regions, caves are carved by the flow of water through limestone bedrock. How do the stalagmites and stalactites in the caves develop? (2002, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A They are carbonate deposits formed by dripping water in air-filled cavities. _ B They are granite intrusions that remain behind after water dissolves the surrounding limestone. C They are crystals that grow as water hollows out the cavern. D They are carvings made in limestone by the swirling water as it hollows out the cavern.
64.
Which conclusion can be made based on the information in the chart? (2002, Ch. 3, minerals)
F Quartz is harder than topaz. G Calcite is harder than apatite. H Fluorite is harder than feldspar. J Gypsum is harder than talc.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
65.
30
Which of the following rocks represents an igneous intrusion? (2002, Ch. 12, Volcanoes and Igneous Rock Features)
A Granite _ B Limestone C Marble D Shale 66.
The edges of moving crustal plates are often defined by — (2002, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
A ocean basins B frequent seismic activity _ C intercontinental plains D Earth’s largest rivers
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
67.
31
An earthquake struck San Diego, California. The above map and table show that the approximate difference in arrival times between the P-wave and S-wave at Seattle is — 2002, (Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
F 2 minutes G 3 minutes _ H 4 minutes J 5 minutes
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
68.
32
Which layer of the above soil profile would be affected the most by weathering and erosion? (2002, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil)
A1_ B2 C3 D4
69.
The point from which an earthquake originates is called the — (2002, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
F focus _ G epicenter H fault line J shock wave 70.
Jellyfish have rarely been fossilized because they — (2002, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A contain no carbon compounds B are very rare animals C are generally found in oceans D have soft bodies
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 71.
33
Which of the landforms is most likely to result when two continents collide? (2002, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
72.
34
More of the upper block’s formation is missing mainly due to — (2002, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F lower layers subjected to less pressure G erosion of the upper layers’ surfaces _ H less deformation than in the lower block J presence of more igneous rock in the block 73.
More often than metamorphic or igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks have — (2002, Ch. 4, rocks)
A many holes from trapped gases B large quartz crystals C numerous fossils _ D a glassy appearance 74.
What does Pangaea mean? (2002, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
F It is the name of an extinct volcano. G It is the French word for volcano. H It is the name of an ancient supercontinent. _ J It is a huge disruption of the Earth’s atmospheric circulation. 75.
Virginia has large deposits of sand and gravel. These are usually found in areas where — (2002, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
F water once flowed _ G lava once covered the ground H swamps once were present J the water table was once very low 76.
Which of these energy sources originates from a nonrenewable resource? (2002, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
A Solar B Geothermal C Fossil fuel _ D Hydroelectric
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 77.
35
Which of these can determine the size of grains in igneous rocks? (2003, Ch. 4, rocks)
F Amount of rare minerals G Distance from a plate boundary H Size of the volcano J Cooling rate of molten rock _
78.
The drawing above shows the water table in the vicinity of a newly drilled well. Which of the drawings below shows the appearance of the water table several months later when the well has been in regular use? (2003, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
79.
36
The pictures above represent various stages of soil development. The correct order in which these pictures should be ordered is — (2003, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil)
A I, II, IV, III B III, I, II, IV C II, IV, III, I _ D III, II, IV, I 80.
One part of California is on the Pacific Plate, while the remainder of the state is on the North American Plate. The two plates are moving to the northwest at different speeds, causing one plate to slide past the other. This movement in plates creates a — (2003, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
A normal fault B reverse fault C strike-slip fault _ D thrust fault 81.
Which of the following is not a fossil fuel? (2003, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
A Coal B Wood _ C Petroleum D Natural gas
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
37
82.
Which of these pictures shows the last in the sequence of events? (2003, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
83.
What is usually responsible for an earthquake? (2003, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
A Pressure buildup within the mantle B Slippage along faults within Earth’s crust _ C Weathering along coastlines D Force changes from the moon pulling on Earth
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 84.
38
Why does water move more slowly through clay than through humus? (2003, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A Clay has greater permeability. B Clay has very small pore spaces. _ C Clay prevents capillary attraction of water. D Clay reduces evaporation rates. 85.
Which of the following minerals, when in the form of sand, can be used to manufacture glass? (2003, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
A Gypsum B Diamond C Calcite D Quartz _ 86.
Scientists use volcanoes and earthquake activity to establish — (2003, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics)
F plate boundaries _ G lines of latitude H borders between countries J the density of rock layers 87.
Which of the following properties refers to the colored powder resulting from rubbing a mineral against a harder surface? (2003, Ch. 3, minerals)
F Hardness G Luster H Cleavage J Streak _ 88.
Metamorphic rocks whose minerals are arranged in layers or bands are called — (2003, Ch. 4, rocks)
A unfoliated B nonclastic C clastic D foliated 89.
Slate is a fairly common rock that can be used for roofing shingles. What property makes it most suitable for this use? (2003, Ch. 4, rocks)
F It can be split into thin, flat layers. _ G It feels soft and smooth. H It is hard and brittle. J It can occur in different colors.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 90.
39
Heat and pressure can transform igneous rock into metamorphic rock. What processes can transform igneous rock into sedimentary rock? (2003, Ch. 4, rocks)
F Heat and pressure G Rifting and subduction H Erosion and sedimentation _ J Evaporation and condensation
91.
The mineral in the above table that has a blue color and will scratch garnet is — (2003, Ch. 3, minerals)
A pyrite B garnet C magnetite D topaz _ 92.
Which of these is most important in determining how a rock was formed? (2003, Ch. 4, rocks)
A Color and shape B Luster and hardness C Composition and texture _ D Size and weight 93.
Which of these parts of a saber-toothed cat was most likely to become fossilized? (2003, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F Hair G Skin H Muscles J Jaws _
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006 94.
40
Lightweight and strong, the metal that has been recycled with the greatest success is — (2003, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources)
A steel B tin C aluminum _ D titanium 95.
The hypothesis for the cause of the dinosaurs’ extinction that has the most scientific support links their extinction to — (2004, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History)
F a long drought G the appearance of man H the increase in numbers of mammals J a large object from space hitting the Earth 96.
Approximately 99.7% of all water on Earth is found in oceans, seas, ice, and the atmosphere. Based on this information, which statement is most accurate? (2004, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
A The Earth’s freshwater supply is infinite. B Less than 0.3% of Earth’s water is drinkable. _ C Humans are not dependent on ocean water. D The water cycle returns all usable water to the sea 97.
Volcanic ash has occasionally formed molds of animals. This occurs when the ash covers the animal and — (2004, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F replaces the animal’s soft tissues G enters the animal’s body cavity H hardens before the animal decays _ J mineralizes the animal’s bones
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
98.
41
Which area is most likely the oldest section of rock? (2004, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
A1 B2 C3 D4_ 99.
Rock layers tell a story about their past. What is the basic assumption that is made when reading this story? (2004, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating)
F The composition of the Earth’s atmosphere has been constant. G The Earth’s crust cooled and then remelted before rock layers began to form. H The processes in the rock cycle were the same in the past as they are today. _ J Chemical reactions in the past were slower than they are today.
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
42
100. The diagram above is similar to one drawn by Antonio Snider-Pelligrini in 1858. What data was he trying to explain with this diagram? (2004, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics) A The distance between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres B The reason for similar fossils in Africa and South America _ C The presence of earthquakes on different continents D The variations in depths of the Atlantic Ocean 101. Which of the following is a renewable source of energy? (2004, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) F Natural gas G Coal H Oil J Falling water 102. When the sea floor spreads apart, volcanoes and ridges are formed because - (2004, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics) A sediments are deposited where the floor spreads, building ridges B as the plates pull apart, magma moves to the surface, building ridges _ C ocean water pushes down on the surrounding sea floor, pushing up ridges D underwater earthquakes lift the sea floor into long ridges
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
43
103. The chart shows the Mohs scale for measuring the hardness of minerals. A mineral that can scratch fluorite and can be scratched by orthoclase is able to - (2004, Ch. 3, minerals) A scratch both calcite and quartz B be scratched by both calcite and quartz C scratch calcite and be scratched by quartz _ D scratch quartz and be scratched by calcite 104. Cyanite (Al2SiO5), quartz (SiO2), and leucite (KAlSi2O6) may be grouped together because they all contain — (2004, Ch. 3, minerals) F aluminum G carbon H potassium J silicon
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
44
105. Of these igneous rocks, which would contain the largest crystals? (2004, Ch. 4, rocks) A Granite _ B Obsidian C Pumice D Rhyolite 106. One method of lessening the environmental impact of strip mining is to — (2004, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) A mine only nontoxic materials B only mine during the evening hours C feed the animals displaced by the mine D require that the landscape and vegetation of mined lands be restored 107. Which of the following is not considered a result of the movement of tectonic plates? (2004, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics) F Earthquakes G Mountain ranges H Increased volcanic activity J Karst topography
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
45
108. Which diagram below best represents the most common arrangement of zones in a water table? (2004, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
109. Students want to identify a rock in a nearby field. Which of the following properties would be most useful in identifying the unknown rock? (2004, Ch. 4, rocks) F Color G Smell H Mineral content _ J Specific weight 110. What is located beneath soil layers? (2004, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil) A Bedrock _ B Humus C Lava D Tundra 111. Organic matter in soil is made from — (2004, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil) F weathered parent rock G decayed plants and animals _ H acid rain J carbon dioxide
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
46
112. Which of these provides the best evidence of the environment in which an igneous rock was formed? (2004, Ch. 4, rocks) A Thickness B Color C Size D Texture
113. In the illustration shown, which layer is an example of an intrusion? (2004, Ch. 12, Volcanoes and Igneous Rock Features) A1 B2 C3_ D4 114. Rocks formed by the cementing of weathered materials are called — (2004, Ch. 4, rocks) A sedimentary rocks _ B extrusive igneous rocks C basalt D magma
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
47
115. The canyon shown in the picture was most likely formed by — (2004, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater) F a volcano G high winds H earthquakes J running water _ 116. Which of these substances plays the most important part in chemical weathering? (2004, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil) F Wind G Water _ H Ice J Frost 117. Extrusive rocks have small grains because they — (2004, Ch. 4, rocks) F cool quickly _ G harden underground H contain rare minerals J have a rough mixture 118. A major problem with depending on fossil fuels as primary energy sources is that they are - (2005, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) A overabundant B nonpolluting C nonrenewable _ D deep underground 119. Most modern geologists have argued that a global catastrophe may have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. According to these scientists, what was this catastrophe? (2005, Ch. 14, Geologic Time & Earth History) A An asteroid impact with the Earth _ B Melting of the polar ice caps C A shift in the tilt of the Earth D Earthquakes and volcanoes
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
48
120. Seismic waves generated by an earthquake at point R are recorded at locations W and X. Which pair of seismographs is more accurate? (2005, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth)
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
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121. Compared to the Rocky Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains are much — (2005, Ch. 6, Landforms) A older _ B less eroded C higher D thicker 122. A volcanic eruption can affect the atmosphere by — (2005, Ch. 15, atmosphere) (Ch. 12, Volcanoes and Igneous Rock Features) A reducing the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere B adding large quantities of several gases, such as sulfur dioxide, to the atmosphere _ C clearing away nearby clouds, increasing the amount of sunshine D increasing the amount of oxygen due to escaping gases
123. Each dot on the above diagram marks the origin of an earthquake. The area with the highest concentration of earthquake origins marks — (2005, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth) (Ch. 10, Plate tectonics) F a line of Earth’s magnetic field G a seam of soft rock, such as limestone H the path of the subducting tectonic plate _ J the location of a developing igneous intrusion 124. Which of these is the best indication of the relative age of a rock layer? (2005, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating) A The thickness of the layer B The chemical makeup of the layer C The position of the layer compared to other layers _ D The distance the layer extends over the Earth 125. Which mineral is easily identified by smell? (2005, Ch. 3, minerals) F Galena G Pyrite H Quartz J Sulfur _
Geology SOL Questions 2000-2006
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126. Which of these pieces of basalt rock has probably been in a river the longest? (2005, Ch. 8 & 9, Erosion and Deposition)
127. Scientists use the rock cycle to describe the processes by which — (2005, Ch. 4, rocks) A all different types of fossils were transformed into rock B one type of rock can be changed into another type of rock _ C tectonic plates shift around the Earth’s surface D mineral crystals and compositions are identified
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
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128. According to Mohs Hardness Scale, which of these groups of minerals can scratch fluorite? (2005, Ch. 3, minerals) F Talc, gypsum, and calcite G Calcite, quartz, and topaz H Apatite, orthoclase, and corundum _ J Diamond, gypsum, and quartz 2050057
129. The Earth’s mantle is made up of very hot material that rises to the top of the mantle, cools, then sinks, reheats, and rises again, constantly repeating the cycle. This action, which causes the Earth’s crust to move, is known as — (2005, Ch. 11, earthquakes and structure of Earth) A convection currents _ B magnetic fields C hot spots D advection forces
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
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130. According to the above diagram, the water supply will be most consistent in well — (2005, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater) F1 G2 H3_ J4
131. The diagram shown illustrates which geological process? (2005, Ch. 6, Landforms) A Faulting _ B Folding C Weathering D Metamorphism 132. In which type of rock are fossils most likely to be found? (2005, Ch. 13, fossils and age dating) F Igneous intrusive G Igneous extrusive H Sedimentary _ J Metamorphic
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
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133. The layer in the above soil profile that has the most humus is — (2005, Ch. 7, Weathering and Soil) A1_ B2 C3 D4 134. While on vacation, a student visits the area around a volcano that has recently erupted. The student can expect to find samples of — (2005, Ch. 4, rocks) A clastic sedimentary rock B nonfoliated metamorphic rock C chemically formed sedimentary rock D extrusive igneous rock
135. The mountain shown is composed of deformed sedimentary layers. They are located near a tectonic plate boundary and are still increasing in elevation due to — (2005, Ch. 10, Plate tectonics) A colliding tectonic plates _ B seafloor spreading of tectonic plates C subduction of a tectonic plate D transform faulting of a tectonic plate
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
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136. Wind power is not typically used to generate all of the electricity needed for large cities because the — (2005, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) A energy source is inconsistent _ B waste products are unsafe C fuel expenses are too great D energy produced is not in a usable form
137. Which kind of rock is formed by the processes shown? (2005, Ch. 4, rocks) F Basaltic G Sedimentary _ H Igneous J Metamorphic
138. The chart above shows different sources of energy. Which conclusion can be made based on this chart? (2005, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) F Coal is the main source of energy. G Use of nuclear power is increasing. H Fossil fuels make up over three-quarters of our energy consumption. _ J Renewable energy sources are predominantly used.
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
55 139. What is the greatest environmental cost of hydroelectric power? (2005, Ch. 5, Energy and Mineral Resources) A Increased flooding downstream B Fish kills due to the turbines C Decreased species diversity in the new lake D Destruction of free-running rivers and their ecosystems 2050111
140. Which of these mineral properties cannot be used to identify a mineral? (2005, Ch. 3, minerals) F Luster G Hardness H Mass _ J Streak
GEOLOGY SOL QUESTIONS 2000-2005
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141. The pictures show different stages in the development of a river valley. Which picture shows the first stage of development? (2005, Ch. 9, Surface and Groundwater)
