What type of rock is formed by cooling and solidification of lava?
A Igneous
B Sedimentary
C Metamorphic
D Volcanic
Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. When formed on the Earth’s surface, they are classified as extrusive igneous rocks (e.g., basalt). Sedimentary rocks are formed by compression of sediments, and metamorphic rocks are created by heat and pressure.
Which geological map is used to show the distribution of rock types?
A Topographic map
B Seismic map
C Geological map
D Hydrological map
A geological map shows the distribution, nature, and age of rock types at the Earthโs surface. It provides valuable information about structural geology, mineral deposits, and tectonic features. Topographic maps show land contours, while hydrological maps focus on water resources.
What type of soil is best for supporting plant growth?
A Clay
B Sand
C Silt
D Loam
Loam is a well-balanced soil with good proportions of sand, silt, and clay. It provides good drainage while retaining moisture and nutrients, making it ideal for plant growth. Clay retains too much water, and sand drains too quickly.
What is the primary cause of the formation of earthquakes?
A Volcanic eruptions
B Tectonic plate movement
C Human activity
D Atmospheric pressure
Tectonic plate movements are the primary cause of earthquakes. When plates shift or collide, they release stored energy in the form of seismic waves. Volcanic eruptions can also trigger earthquakes, but plate movements are the main factor.
What is the primary role of geotechnical investigation?
A To analyze subsurface conditions
B To study air quality
C To measure seismic waves
D To study plant roots
A geotechnical investigation is crucial for analyzing the subsurface conditions such as soil strength, groundwater levels, and rock composition. This information is essential for designing safe foundations for buildings and other structures.
Which type of soil is known for its high water retention ability?
A Gravel
B Loam
C Clay
D Sand
Clay soil has small particles that retain water effectively. It has low permeability, which makes it prone to waterlogging. In contrast, sand and gravel drain quickly, while loam has a balanced ability to retain and drain water.
What is the primary characteristic of metamorphic rocks?
A Formed by cooling lava
B Formed under heat and pressure
C Contain fossils
D Composed of layers
Metamorphic rocks form when existing rocks undergo heat and pressure over time, leading to changes in their mineral composition and structure. Common examples include marble (from limestone) and slate (from shale). They do not contain fossils or form from cooling lava.
What is the term for the study of Earth’s physical features and processes?
A Stratigraphy
B Petrology
C Seismology
D Geomorphology
Geomorphology is the study of Earth’s physical features and the processes that shape them. This includes analyzing landforms like mountains, valleys, and rivers, and understanding how processes like erosion and tectonics shape the Earth’s surface.
What is the primary method for determining the age of rocks?
A Seismology
B Fossil analysis
C Radiometric dating
D Stratigraphy
Radiometric dating is the most accurate method for determining the age of rocks. It involves measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes in minerals to estimate the time that has passed since the rock formed. Fossil analysis and stratigraphy are used for dating sedimentary rocks.
What is the effect of weathering on rocks?
A Creates rock layers
B Breaks them into smaller pieces
C Forms new minerals
D Increases their strength
Weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller particles due to physical, chemical, and biological processes. This process can lead to the formation of sediments, which may later become new rock formations. Weathering does not directly increase rock strength or create new minerals.
What is the main function of an aquifer in geology?
A Store and transmit water
B Contain oil and gas
C Form mineral deposits
D Filter contaminants
An aquifer is a layer of rock or sediment that stores and transmits groundwater. It acts as a natural reservoir for fresh water that can be accessed through wells. Aquifers do not contain oil or gas, although they can be used to filter some contaminants.
What is the most common method for measuring groundwater levels?
A Borehole analysis
B Seismic waves
C Piezoelectric sensors
D Water table observation
Water table observation is the most common method to measure groundwater levels. This involves monitoring the level of water in wells or boreholes to understand the depth and fluctuations of the water table. Borehole analysis may also be used for more detailed investigations.
What is the primary effect of erosion on landforms?
A Degradation and loss of soil
B Creation of mountains
C Formation of fossils
D Expansion of glaciers
Erosion leads to the degradation and loss of soil, which can result in the formation of valleys, canyons, and other features as material is carried away. While erosion can shape landforms, it primarily removes soil, affecting agriculture and land stability.
What type of soil is known for being easily eroded?
A Clay
B Loam
C Sand
D Gravel
Sand is known for being easily eroded because it has large particles and does not compact well. This makes it less cohesive and more susceptible to wind and water erosion. Loam and clay soils are more stable and resistant to erosion.
What is the primary function of structural geology in civil engineering?
A To understand the deformation of rocks
B To analyze soil properties
C To study the movement of tectonic plates
D To design building foundations
Structural geology focuses on studying the deformation of rocks due to tectonic forces. It helps engineers understand how rocks bend, fold, or fracture, which is crucial in designing structures in areas with significant geological activity, such as earthquake-prone regions.