science term 1 quiz 1 Flashcards
What is the definition of the Weathering
When rocks are gradually broken down & sculpted through both physical and chemical processes, it is a slow process
What are the two main types of weathering?
Physical weathering and chemical weathering.
True or False: Physical weathering involves chemical changes in minerals.
False.
Fill in the blank: _______ weathering involves the breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition.
Physical
What is an example of physical weathering?
Frost wedging.
What is chemical weathering?
Chemical weathering is the process that breaks down rocks through chemical changes.
True or False: Acid rain is a cause of chemical weathering.
True.
What is the role of water in weathering?
Water can facilitate both physical and chemical weathering processes.
What is an independent variable in an experiment?
The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated or changed by the researcher. (the cause)
What is a dependent variable?
The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment. (the effect)
In an experiment testing the effect of sunlight on plant growth, what is the independent variable?
The amount of sunlight.
In the same experiment, what is the dependent variable?
The growth of the plant.
Define hypothesis.
A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.
What is the scientific method?
The scientific method is a systematic process for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.
True or False: A theory is a proven fact.
False.
What is erosion?
Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth’s surface by wind or water flow and transported to another location.
What is the main difference between weathering and erosion?
Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken-down materials.
What is the primary cause of physical weathering?
Temperature changes.
Name one factor that influences the rate of chemical weathering.
Temperature.
What is the impact of vegetation on weathering?
Vegetation can help prevent erosion and promote chemical weathering through organic acids.
Give an example of an experiment involving independent and dependent variables.
Testing the effect of different fertilizers (independent variable) on plant growth (dependent variable).
What are sedimentary rocks primarily formed from?
Particles of other rocks and organic material.
What is the significance of the rock cycle?
The rock cycle explains how rocks transform from one type to another over geological time.
Fill in the blank: The ___________ is the layer of soil and rock that supports life.
lithosphere
What is a control variable?
A control variable is a factor that is kept constant to ensure that the test results are valid.
True or False: The presence of acid in rainwater can enhance the rate of chemical weathering.
True.
What is a mineral?
A naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure.
What process describes the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces?
Weathering.
In scientific experiments, what is the purpose of a control group?
the variable that has not been tested on the experiment
What is mechanical weathering?
Mechanical weathering is the physical breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition.
What role does climate play in weathering?
Climate affects the rate of weathering; warmer and wetter climates typically increase the rate of chemical weathering.
What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory?
A hypothesis is a testable prediction, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.
True or False: All rocks can be weathered and eroded.
True.
What is the primary cause of chemical weathering?
Chemical reactions with water, acids, and gases.
Fill in the blank: ___________ is the process of transporting weathered material.
Erosion
What is the role of temperature in physical weathering?
Temperature changes can cause rocks to expand and contract, leading to cracks and breakdown.
What is a variable in science?
A variable is any factor that can change in an experiment.
What is the significance of soil horizons?
Soil horizons indicate the different layers of soil and their composition.
True or False: Chemical weathering can lead to the formation of new minerals.
True.
What is the effect of human activity on weathering and erosion?
Human activities can accelerate weathering and erosion through deforestation and urban development.
What is a scientific model?
A scientific model is a representation of an idea, event, or object that helps to explain and predict scientific phenomena.
What is the purpose of conducting multiple trials in an experiment?
To ensure reliability and accuracy of results.
What type of weathering occurs due to thermal expansion?
Physical weathering.
What is the process by which rocks are formed from sediments?
Lithification.
True or False: The Earth’s crust is static and does not change over time.
False.
What is the importance of the water cycle in weathering processes?
The water cycle contributes to both physical and chemical weathering by transporting water and facilitating reactions.
Fill in the blank: ___________ weathering is enhanced by biological activity.
Chemical
What is a key factor that influences the rate of physical weathering?
The presence of water.
What is the main component of soil?
Mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air.
True or False: All weathering processes require water.
False.
What is the relationship between weathering and soil formation?
Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller particles, which eventually contribute to soil formation.
What is the significance of studying weathering in geology?
Studying weathering helps us understand landscape evolution, soil formation, and environmental changes.
What is the role of temperature in chemical weathering?
Higher temperatures typically increase the rate of chemical reactions, accelerating chemical weathering.
What is the effect of climate change on weathering and erosion?
Climate change can alter weather patterns, affecting rates of weathering and erosion.
What is the purpose of a scientific experiment?
To test a hypothesis by manipulating variables and observing the results.
What is the relationship between weathering and the rock cycle?
Weathering is a key process in the rock cycle, breaking down rocks into sediments that can form new rocks.