Indonesia’s Techtonic Setting

Question 1

What is the tectonic setting of Indonesia characterized by?

Answer 1

Widespread subduction along the entire 3000 km length of the Indonesian archipelago

This subduction involves the Indo Australian plate moving beneath the Eurasian plate.

Question 2

What geological feature primarily forms much of Indonesia?

Answer 2

An island arc formed by subduction

This island arc is a result of the Indo Australian plate subducting beneath the Eurasian plate.

Question 3

What is happening to the east of the Indonesian archipelago?

Answer 3

The continental shelf of northern Australia is in collision with the Eurasian plate

This collision adds to the tectonic complexity of the region.

Question 4

What are the consequences of the tectonic movements in Indonesia?

Answer 4

Very high levels of seismicity and volcanicity

These movements are responsible for Indonesia’s frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Question 5

What is a notable feature of volcanism in Indonesia?

Answer 5

A large number of highly explosive volcanoes

This is significant in the context of global volcanic activity.

Question 6

What was a historical example of a cataclysmic eruption in Indonesia?

Answer 6

The eruption of Krakatau in 1883

This eruption was notable for its explosive power and the resulting tsunami.

Question 7

What natural disaster was generated by the eruption of Krakatau?

Answer 7

A devastating tsunami

The tsunami caused significant destruction and loss of life in the surrounding areas.

Question 8

What geological feature fills the caldera of the super-volcano in northern Sumatra?

Answer 8

Lake Toba

Lake Toba is a result of a massive eruption that occurred 70,000 years ago.

Question 9

The eruption of which super-volcano occurred 70,000 years ago?

Answer 9

Lake Toba’s super-volcano eruption

This eruption had a significant impact on the environment and human history.