Assignment One, Introduction – Flashcards
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The nebular theory is the most widely accepted view of the origin of our solar system. Which of the following is a short description of the nebular theory?
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A large cloud of space gas and dust condensed and contracted to form a rotating disk with a star formed at the center. Repeated collisions caused bodies to coalesce, leading to the current configuration of our solar system.
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The enormous cloud of gas and dust initially condensed due to particle attraction. What force then pulled the cloud into a flat disk shape?
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The inward pull of gravity
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What object or class of objects makes up most of the solar system's mass?
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The Sun
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Through the course of time, bodies in our solar system have become __________ and __________ due to collisions.
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fewer in number; larger in size
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The layers of Earth are based on what two sets of characteristics?
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Chemical composition and physical properties
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What is the D" layer?
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A partially molten layer above the outer core at the base of the mantle.
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The upper mantle can be divided into the asthenosphere and lithosphere based on what physical properties?
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The asthenosphere is solid, but mobile, while the lithosphere is solid and relatively rigid.
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What are the two types of crust?
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Oceanic and continental
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What happens to the atmosphere as you move away from Earth's surface?
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The atmosphere thins.
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Which of the following correctly states the order in which major features of North America were formed?
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Canadian Shield, Appalachians, North American Cordillera
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Which statement accurately describes continental shields?
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Very old, stable regions composed of igneous and metamorphic rocks
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If stable platforms represent sedimentary rocks that cover continental shields, then what statement must be true?
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The sedimentary rock atop the stable platforms must be younger than continental shields.
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The __________ is an example of an old mountain belt, while the Himalayas represent a(n) __________.
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Appalachian Mountains; young mountain belt
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What main characteristics are used to distinguish the two types of mountain belts?
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Age and degree of erosion
