Which type of rock is commonly formed in ocean environments?
A Igneous
B Metamorphic
C Volcanic
D Sedimentary
Sedimentary rocks are commonly formed in ocean environments as sediments accumulate over time and get compacted. They often contain fossils and form in layers. Igneous rocks form from cooling magma, and metamorphic rocks are formed by heat and pressure.
What is the term for the natural breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces?
A Weathering
B Erosion
C Compaction
D Lithification
Weathering is the natural process where rocks break down into smaller pieces due to physical, chemical, or biological processes. Erosion involves the transport of weathered materials, while compaction and lithification are involved in rock formation.
Which method is used to measure the water table?
A Core sampling
B Borehole logging
C Seismic waves
D Hydrological monitoring
Borehole logging involves measuring the water table levels in drilled boreholes. This method helps geologists understand groundwater flow and depth. Core sampling provides geological material samples, while seismic waves measure subsurface conditions. Hydrological monitoring focuses on water quality and quantity.
What is the most commonly used technique for assessing soil compaction?
A Sieve analysis
B Permeameter test
C Proctor test
D X-ray diffraction
The Proctor test is used to determine the optimal moisture content for soil compaction. It helps to find the maximum density a soil can achieve under specific conditions, which is crucial for foundation design. Other tests like sieve analysis and permeameter measure different properties.
What type of rock is formed from the crystallization of molten magma?
A Metamorphic
B Igneous
C Sedimentary
D Organic
Igneous rocks form when molten magma cools and crystallizes. These rocks are classified into intrusive (cooling beneath the Earth’s surface) and extrusive (cooling on the surface) types. Metamorphic and sedimentary rocks form under different conditions.
What is the purpose of a geotechnical investigation in construction?
A To determine air quality
B To measure water quality
C To assess soil strength and stability
D To analyze plant growth
A geotechnical investigation is essential for assessing soil strength, stability, and other properties. This helps engineers determine the suitability of the site for construction, ensuring safety and stability of structures. It involves testing soil, rock, and groundwater conditions.
What is the primary cause of soil erosion?
A Water
B Wind
C Ice
D Temperature
Water is the primary cause of soil erosion, particularly through rainfall and surface runoff, which carry away soil particles. Wind and ice can also contribute to erosion but to a lesser extent compared to water, especially in areas with poor vegetation.
What is the main characteristic of metamorphic rocks?
A Formed from sediments
B Formed under high heat and pressure
C Formed by cooling magma
D Contain fossils
Metamorphic rocks form when existing rocks (igneous or sedimentary) are subjected to high heat and pressure, altering their mineral composition and texture. Common examples include marble (from limestone) and slate (from shale). These rocks do not contain fossils.
Which method uses sound waves to explore underground rock layers?
A Ground-penetrating radar
B Borehole logging
C Magnetic resonance
D Seismic reflection
Seismic reflection uses sound waves to explore underground rock layers by sending waves into the ground and measuring their reflections. This method helps in determining the depth, type, and structure of geological formations. Ground-penetrating radar uses electromagnetic waves but is more suited for shallow exploration.
What is the primary factor in determining the permeability of soil?
A Particle size
B Temperature
C Organic matter
D Soil color
Particle size directly affects soil permeability. Larger particles like sand have high permeability, allowing water to flow easily, while smaller particles like clay create low permeability, restricting water flow. Organic matter can also influence water retention but not permeability as much as particle size.
What type of rock is commonly used for building foundations?
A Sandstone
B Shale
C Granite
D Coal
Granite is commonly used in building foundations because it is durable, strong, and resistant to weathering. It is an igneous rock formed from crystallized magma, making it ideal for load-bearing structures. Shale and coal are not used for foundations due to their softness and fragility.
What geological feature is formed by the deposition of sediment carried by water?
A Canyon
B Delta
C Volcano
D Fault
A delta is formed by the deposition of sediment carried by water, typically at the mouth of a river where it meets a body of water like an ocean or lake. The sediments accumulate over time, creating fertile land. Canyons and faults are formed by erosion and tectonic movements.
Which of the following is a key characteristic of sedimentary rocks?
A Formed under heat and pressure
B Formed from cooling magma
C High density
D Contain fossilized remains
Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediments over time and often contain fossils of plants and animals. They are typically layered and include rocks like limestone and sandstone. Igneous and metamorphic rocks are formed under different conditions and do not usually contain fossils.
What type of soil is most likely to be found in a desert environment?
A Sand
B Clay
C Loam
D Peat
Sand is commonly found in desert environments due to the arid climate and low organic material. Sand is highly porous and does not retain moisture well. Clay and loam soils are more common in humid environments, while peat is found in wetland areas.
What is the term used for the sudden release of energy from the Earth’s crust?
A Volcanic eruption
B Landslide
C Earthquake
D Tsunami
An earthquake is caused by the sudden release of energy from the Earth’s crust due to the movement of tectonic plates. This release results in seismic waves that cause the ground to shake. Volcanic eruptions, landslides, and tsunamis are different geological events but can be linked to earthquakes.