Lithospheric Processes Past A Level Questions
H22008 Q5 either
a) Explain what is meant by the term rock cycle. How can the rock cycle be used to
explain the differences between igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks? [9]
b) To what extent are the type, rate and effectiveness of weathering dependent upon
climate? [16]
H22008 Q5 or
a) Describe the types of evidence that can be used to support the theory of plate
tectonics. [9]
b) What methods can be used for the measurement and description of the magnitude of
earthquakes? How far has prediction been helpful in mitigating the hazardous effects of
earthquakes? [16]
H22007 Q5 either
a) Explain the processes of biological weathering and describe the circumstances under
which biological weathering has the greatest impact upon rocks. [9]
b) What are the properties of limestone rocks that make them vulnerable to weathering
and cause them to produce distinctive landforms? [16]
H22007 Q5 or
a) Using one or more diagrams, explain the development of a divergent plate boundary
and its associated landforms. [9]
b) Explain why the occurrence of many natural hazards is associated with tectonic plate
margins. [16]
2006 Q10
a) With the help of a labeled diagram, explain the formation of a rift valley. [9]
b) Why is an understanding of plate tectonics important in explaining the nature and
distribution of volcanoes? [16]
2005 Q10
a) Describe the processes of crystal growth (salt crystallization) and pressure release
(dilation) as they apply to weathering and explain their impact upon rock structure. [9]
b) Describe and explain the differences between convergent and divergent tectonic
plate boundaries. [16]
2004 Q10
a) Briefly describe the differences between igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic
rocks. [9]
b) Using examples, explain the extent to which the weathering of rock is dependent
upon climate. [16]
2003 Q10
a) Explain the differences between the processes of chemical weathering and physical
(mechanical) weathering. [9]
b) Describe the mineral composition and the physical properties of granite. Explain how
these can affect the weathering, erosion and types of landforms found in granite areas.
[16]
2002 Q10
a) Briefly describe what is meant by the terms destructive plate margins, constructive
plate margins and conservative plate margins. [9]
b) Using examples, and with the help of diagrams, explain how landforms are related to
plate movements at
i) constructive plate margins and
ii) destructive plate margins [16]