Weathering, Erosion, Deposition and Landscapes Test Prep
Base your answers to the following 4 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the map and cross
section below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The shaded areas on the map represent regions of the
United States that have evaporite rock layers (layers of rock formed from the evaporation of seawater) under
the surface bedrock. The cross section shows the generalized structure of the area in which the evaporite
layers are found in New York State.
The presence of these evaporite rocks indicates that the shaded areas on the map at some time in the past
were
1 high mountain ranges
2 glacial ice sheets
3 shallow seas
4 mid-ocean ridges
Each of these evaporite rocks is normally formed by
1 chemical processes
2 cooling of lava
3 decreased heat and pressure
4 melting of magma
These evaporite deposits could be composed of which minerals?
1 garnet and pyroxene
2 mica and feldspar
3 hornblende and olivine
4 halite and gypsum
The surface rocks overlying these evaporite rock layers are most likely which type of rock?
1 sedimentary
2 plutonic igneous
3 regional metamorphic
4 contact metamorphic
The diagram below shows what happens to a rock within a stream’s erosional-depositional system as time
passes.
Which process of change is best represented by the sequence shown in the diagram?
1 deposition
2 metamorphism
3 condensation
4 weathering
Dynamic equilibrium between erosion and deposition in a river exists when the amount of deposition is
1 less than the amount of erosion
2 greater than the amount of erosion
3 the same as the amount of erosion
The diagram below shows the surface features and rock structure of a section of Earth’s crust.
Which stream pattern would most likely form on this landscape region?
The block diagram below shows a portion of Earth’s surface.
If the climate in this area becomes more humid, which change will most likely occur?
1 The landscape features will become more rounded.
2 The elevation of the entire region will increase.
3 The limestone will stop dissolving.
4 The rate of wind erosion will increase.
Base your answers to the following 5 questions using the Earth Science Reference Tables, the geologic cross
section below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The cross section shows the rock structure of a region
of Earth’s crust. Letters A through H are rock units. Lines J–Jand K–Kare interfaces within the cross
section. Rock layers A, B, and C have not been overturned.
If layer C is Devonian in age, layer B would be most likely to contain a
1 crinoid of Pennsylvanian age
2 stromatolite of Precambrian age
3 graptolite of Ordovician age
4 trilobite of Cambrian age
Which rocks appear to be most resistant to weathering and erosion under present climate conditions?
(1) A and G
(2) B and D
(3) C and F
(4) D and E
The unconformity at interface K–Kwas created most directly by
1 a short period of dolostone deposition followed by faulting
2 a long period of weathering and erosion followed by deposition
3 a major episode of igneous activity
4 an intense episode of regional metamorphism
Which event occurred before the formation of rock layer B?
1 weathering of rock layer A
2 faulting of rocks along line J–J
3 intrusion of igneous rock layer H
4 formation of metamorphic rock above rock layer A
Which statement best explains the presence of the metamorphic rock exposed under the trees at the top of the
cross section?
1 Weathering of the surface of layer A caused local metamorphism.
2 Layer A had previously undergone regional metamorphism when it was buried deeper in the crust.
3 Part of igneous rock H, which caused the metamorphism, was removed by weathering and erosion.
4 Exposed sandstone normally changes to the metamorphic rock quartzite over time.
As water velocity of a stream increases from 25 to 225 centimeters per second, in which order will particles
of different sizes begin to move?
1 sand pebbles cobbles boulders
2 silt sand pebbles cobbles
3 cobbles pebbles sand silt
4 silt pebbles sand cobbles
The cross section below shows the rock structure of a deeply eroded, domed mountain region.
Which map shows the stream drainage pattern that will most likely develop as the bedrock is weathered and
eroded from this igneous dome?
The cross section below shows layers of soil.
Which two processes produced the layer of dark brown to black soil?
(1) melting and solidification of magma
(2) erosion and uplifting
(3) weathering and biologic activity
(4) compaction and cementation
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the map below, which shows a meandering stream as it
enters a lake. Points A through D represent locations in the stream.
In the box below, draw a cross-sectional view of the general shape of the stream bottom between points A
and B. The water surface line has already been drawn.
A
Water surface
B
State the relationship between stream velocity and the size of the sediment the stream can carry.
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Describe how the size and shape of most pebbles change when the pebbles are transported in a stream over a
great distance.
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The stream velocity at point C is 100 centimeters per second and the stream velocity at point D is 40
centimeters per second. Identify one sediment particle most likely being deposited between points C and D.
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Deposition is affected by particle density. On the grid below, draw a line to show the relationship between
particle density and settling rate.
The cross section below shows sedimentary bedrock layers A, B, C, and D exposed at Earth’s surface.
Which layer appears to be the least resistant to weathering?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which sediment size would allow water to flow through at the fastest rate?
(1) clay
(2) silt
(3) sand
(4) pebbles
The diagram below shows a section of a meander in a stream. The arrows show the direction of stream flow.
The streambank on the outside of this meander is steeper than the streambank on the inside of this meander
because the water on the outside of this meander is moving
(1) slower, causing deposition
(2) faster, causing deposition
(3) slower, causing erosion
(4) faster, causing erosion
Which agent of erosion is mainly responsible for the formation of the depressions occupied by both the kettle
lakes and finger lakes found in New York State?
(1) wind
(2) waves
(3) streams
(4) glaciers
The cross section below shows a profile of a sediment deposit.
The pattern of sediment size shown indicates that these sediments were most likely deposited within a
(1) landslide
(2) drumlin
(3) moraine
(4) delta
The map below shows a stream drainage pattern. Arrows show the direction of stream flow.
On which landscape region did this drainage pattern most likely develop?
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the geologic cross section below in which overturning has
not occurred. Letters A through H represent rock layers.
Which sequence of events most likely caused the unconformity shown at the bottom of rock layer B?
(1) folding uplift erosion deposition
(2) intrusion erosion folding uplift
(3) erosion folding deposition intrusion
(4) deposition uplift erosion folding
The folding of rock layers G through C was most likely caused by
(1) erosion of overlying sediments
(2) contact metamorphism
(3) the collision of lithospheric plates
(4) the extrusion of igneous rock
Which two letters represent bedrock of the same age?
(1) A and E
(2) B and D
(3) F and G
(4) D and H
Which climatic conditions normally produce the greatest amount of chemical weathering?
1 cool and dry
2 cool and moist
3 warm and dry
4 warm and moist
Unsorted piles of angular sediments were most likely transported and deposited by
1 wind
2 glaciers
3 ocean waves
4 running water
Which statement best describes the conditions existing at a stream location where the erosional-depositional
system is in dynamic equilibrium?
1 More erosion than deposition takes place.
2 More deposition than erosion takes place.
3 Equal amounts of erosion and deposition takes place.
4 no erosion or deposition takes place.
The graph below is incomplete because it does not identify the sediment characteristic (X) that would
produce the line plotted on the graph.
Which label should be placed on the horizontal axis to accurately complete the graph?
Which evidence best indicates that a landscape has been eroded primarily by streams?
1 parallel sets of U-shaped valleys
2 sand dunes
3 thick residual soil
4 sorted layers of cobbles and sand
The boundaries of landscape regions are generally well defined by changes in
1 vegetation and soil type
2 stream size and drainage pattern
3 latitude and longitude
4 elevation and bedrock structure
The block diagrams below show cross sections of the crust in a landscape that has undergone gradual change.
The hardened lava in this volcano’s central pipe formed a mountain peak in the late stage because the lava
plug was composed of
1 soft igneous rock
2 soft metamorphic rock
3 igneous rock that is resistant to erosion
4 metamorphic rock that is resistant to erosion
Base your answers to the following 5 question on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the profile shown
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The profile shows the pattern of horizontal sorting produced at
a particular time when a sediment-laden stream enters the ocean.
Why is this pattern of horizontal sorting produced?
1 Sediments with a flatter shape settle faster.
2 Lower density particles settle faster.
3 Dissolved minerals are deposited first.
4 Larger particles are deposited first.
Deposition of these sediments occurs when a stream enters the ocean because the stream current
1 decreases in width
2 decreases in kinetic energy
3 increases in potential energy
4 increases in velocity
What is the approximate velocity of the remaining stream current at point X?
(1) 100 cm/sec
(2) 70 cm/sec
(3) 30 cm/sec
(4) 5 cm/sec
Which change in the stream would cause pebbles to be deposited farther offshore?
1 a decrease in the stream’s gradient
2 a decrease in the amount of sediment in the stream
3 an increase in the stream’s discharge
4 an increase in the density of the sediment
Which cross-sectional diagram best represents the appearance of the sediment deposition in this region over
time?
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram below,
and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram shows a coastal area with a variety of landforms. Points
A and B are reference points along a meandering stream.
The primary force controlling the movement of the stream and the glacier is
1 deposition
2 insolation
3 gravity
4 climate
Which feature indicates an area with a warm climate?
1 spits
2 coral reef
3 continental shelf
4 deep-sea fan
The environmental of this area would be polluted least by
1 building fossil-fuel power plants along the stream
2 constructing sewage-treatment plants and landfills on the edge of the lagoon
3 developing vacation homes on the barrier islands
4 establishing a wildlife refuge around the lake
Which profile best represents the slope of the meandering stream between points A and B?
Which landscape best represents the shape of the valleys occupied by glaciers?
Landscapes with horizontal bedrock structure, steep slopes, and high elevations are classified as
(1) plateau regions
(2) plain regions
(3) lowland regions
(4) mountain regions
Which surface soil conditions allow the most infiltration of rainwater?
(1) steep slope and permeable soil
(2) steep slope and impermeable soil
(3) gentle slope and permeable soil
(4) gentle slope and impermeable soil
The map below shows a river emptying into an ocean, producing a delta.
Which graph best represents the relationship between the distance from the river delta into the ocean and the
average size of sediments deposited on the ocean floor?
The diagram below represents a map view of a stream drainage pattern.
Which underlying bedrock structure most likely produced this stream drainage pattern?
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the block diagrams below, which show three types of
streams with equal volumes.
Explain how the differences between the type 1 and type 3 stream channels indicate that the average
velocities of the streams are different.
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Explain why the outside of the curve of a meandering channel experiences more erosion than the inside of
the curve.
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Explain how the cobbles and pebbles that were transported by these streams became smooth and rounded in
shape.
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Base your answers to the following 4 questions on the map and cross section of the Finger Lakes Region
shown below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
According to the cross section, how thick from top to bottom is the sediment fill in Seneca Lake?
________________________________________
State one possible explanation for the north-south orientation of the Finger Lakes.
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During some winters, a few of the Finger Lakes remain unfrozen even though the land around the lakes is
frozen. Explain how the specific heat of water can cause these lakes to remain unfrozen.
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Identify two processes that normally occur to form the type of surface bedrock found in the Finger Lakes
Region.
What is the minimum water velocity needed in a stream to maintain the transportation of the smallest
boulder?
(1) 100 cm/sec
(2) 200 cm/sec
(3) 300 cm/sec
(4) 500 cm/sec
Which event is the best example of erosion?
(1) breaking apart of shale as a result of water freezing in a crack
(2) dissolving of rock particles on a limestone gravestone by acid rain
(3) rolling of a pebble along the bottom of a stream
(4) crumbling of bedrock in one area to form soil
The four streams shown on the topographic maps below have the same volume between X and Y. The
distance from X to Y is also the same. All the maps are drawn to the same scale and have the same contour
interval. Which map shows the stream with the greatest velocity between points X and Y?
Which block diagram best represents a portion of a plateau?
The photograph below shows a sign near the Esopus Creek in Kingston, New York.
The main purpose of the word “watershed” on this sign is to communicate that the Esopus Creek
(1) is a tributary of the Hudson River
(2) is a flood hazard where it flows into the Hudson River
(3) forms a delta in the Hudson River
(4) contains ancient fish fossils
Base your answers to the following 2 questions on the diagrams below. Diagrams A, B, and C represent three
different river valleys.
Which bar graph best represents the relative gradients of the main rivers shown in diagrams A, B, and C?
Most sediments found on the floodplain shown in diagram A are likely to be
(1) angular and weathered from underlying bedrock
(2) angular and weathered from bedrock upstream
(3) rounded and weathered from underlying bedrock
(4) rounded and weathered from bedrock upstream
The diagram below shows tubes A and B partly filled with equal volumes of round plastic beads of uniform
size. The beads in tube A are smaller than the beads in tube B. Water was placed in tube A until the pore
spaces were filled. The drain valve was then opened, and the amount of time for the water to drain from the
tube was recorded. The amount of water that remained around the beads was then calculated and recorded.
Data table 1 shows the measurements recorded using tube A.
If the same procedure was followed with tube B, which data table shows the measurements most likely
recorded?
Base your answers to the following 4 questions on the map below, which shows the different lobes (sections)
of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, the last continental ice sheet that covered most of New York State. The arrows
show the direction that the ice lobes flowed. The terminal moraine shows the maximum advance of this ice
sheet.
During which geologic epoch did the Laurentide Ice Sheet advance over New York State?
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Describe the arrangement of rock material in the sediments that were directly deposited by the glacier.
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According to the map, toward which compass direction did the ice lobe flow over the Catskills?
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What evidence might be found on surface bedrock of the Catskills that would indicate the direction of ice
flow in this region?
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Friction occurring at an interface always produces a
1 transformation of energy
2 form of pollution
3 chemical change
4 phase change
The diagram below is a cross-sectional view of rain falling on a farm field and then moving to the water
table.
Which word best describes the movement of the rainwater through zone A?
1 runoff
2 saturation
3 infiltration
4 precipitation
The graph below shows the discharge rate of a stream during a 1-year period.
During which time span did a water deficit most likely exist in the water budget for the surrounding area?
1 January and February
2 May and June
3 August and September
4 November and December
Which conditions produce the most surface water runoff?
1 steep slope, heavy rain, and frozen ground
2 steep slope, gentle rain, and unfrozen ground
3 gentle slope, heavy rain, and frozen ground
4 gentle slope, gentle rain, and unfrozen ground
The diagram below is a map view of a stream flowing through an area of loose sediments. Arrows show the
location of the strongest current.
Which stream profile best represents the cross section from A to A’?
The diagram below shows a hand-sized rock sample with parallel sets of grooves. This rock sample was
found in a gravel bank in central New York State.
The grooves were most likely caused by
1 stream erosion
2 wind erosion
3 a landslide
4 glacial erosion
The graph below shows the general pattern of erosion and deposition for a small tributary stream. Points A,
B, C, and D represent locations along the stream.
At which location is the erosional-depositional system of the stream in dynamic equilibrium?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
The cross section below represents the transport of sediments by a glacier.
At which location is deposition most likely the dominant process?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
The diagram below represents a landscape area.
The labeled surface features of this landscape are resulted mainly from
1 wind erosion
2 wave erosion
3 stream erosion
4 glacial erosion
The diagram below represents a landscape region and its underlying bedrock structure.
Which stream pattern is most likely present in this area?
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagrams below,
and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagrams represent particles of the same type of sedimentary rock
material collected from a streambed. The diagrams are drawn actual size.
Particle C is classified as
1 sand
2 a cobble
3 a boulder
4 a pebble
The student finds the mass of particle B to be 2.8 grams. The actual mass of the particle is 2.6 grams. What is
the student’s percent deviation (percent error)?
(1) 7.1%
(2) 2.0%
(3) 7.7%
(4) 8.0%
Equal masses of each of the three particles are placed in a container of weak acid and shaken. Which particle
size will weather most rapidly?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) All samples will weather at the same rate
Which inference about the density of particle A and particle B is most accurate?
1 Particle A and particle B have the same density because they are made of the same material.
2 Particle A has a greater density than particle B because particle A has a greater volume.
3 Particle A has a greater density than particle B because particle A has a greater mass.
4 Particle B has a greater density than particle A because particle B has been worn to a smaller size.
Particle A has a density of 2.7 grams per cubic centimeter and a volume of 15.0 cubic centimeters. What is
the mass of this particle?
(1) 5.5 g
(2) 15.0 g
(3) 40.5 g
(4) 109.3 g
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagrams and
descriptions of the two laboratory activities below, and your knowledge of Earth Science. The particles used
in these activities are described below.
During Activity 1, as the 10-millimeter aluminum particle drops from A to B, the potential energy of the
particle
1 decreases
2 increases
3 remains the same
In Activity 1, the three sizes of aluminum particles are placed in a stream with a velocity that will carry them
all to a lake. Which cross section shows how the three sizes of particles are sorted when the stream slows as
it empties into the lake?
In activity 2, when the tube is turned upside down, the aluminum particles, labeled “Combination A,” are
allowed to settle. Which diagram represents the sorting that is most likely to occur?
In Activity 2, when the tube is turned upside down, the particles of three different metals, labeled
“Combination B,” are allowed to settle. Which diagram represents the sorting that is most likely to occur?
A third activity, similar in setup to Activity 1, was done using flat, oval, and round aluminum particles with
identical masses. Which table shows the most likely results of this third activity?
Which type of climate has the greatest amount of rock weathering caused by frost action?
1 A dry climate in which temperatures remain below freezing
2 A dry climate in which temperatures alternate from below freezing to above freezing
3 A wet climate in which temperatures remain below freezing
4 A wet climate in which temperatures alternate from below freezing to above freezing
The percentage of open space between grains of soil is called the soil’s
1 permeability
2 porosity
3 discharge
4 capillarity
The map below shows the annual amount of surface runoff in part of the Northern Hemisphere.
At which point on the map does the amount of precipitation exceed by the greatest amount both the actual
evapotranspiration and the infiltration of water into the ground?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
What is the largest particle that can generally be transported by a stream moving at 200 centimeters per
second?
1 boulder
2 cobble
3 pebble
4 sand
Quartz particles of varying sizes are dropped at the same time into deep, calm water. Which cross section
best represents the settling pattern of these particles?
What agent of erosion formed the long U-shaped valleys now occupied by the Finger Lakes in central New
York State?
1 glacial ice
2 wind
3 ocean currents
4 running water
Deep, parallel grooves and scratches (striations) are found on the surface of some limestone bedrock in New
York State. These scratches and grooves suggest that the surface was
1 abraded by windblown sand
2 scraped y rocks in a continental glacier
3 eroded by a meandering stream
4 cracked by the evaporation of a warm, shallow sea
The maps below represent three different stream drainage patterns.
Which statement is generally true of these three drainage patterns?
1 All are controlled by underlying bedrock structure.
2 All are in the old-age stage of stream development.
3 All are located in semiarid regions.
4 All are located in areas where deposition is greater than erosion.
The table below shows characteristics of three landscape regions, X, Y, and Z.
Which terms, when substituted for X, Y, and Z, best complete the table?
(1) X = mountains, Y = plains, Z = plateaus
(2) X = plateaus, Y = mountains, Z = plains
(3) X = plains, Y = plateaus, Z = mountains
(4) X = mountains, Y = plateaus, Z = plains
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagrams
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagrams show two views of the same river flowing from a
lake to an ocean bay.
The deposition in Dolphin Bay near location D is caused mainly by
1 the increased wave action within Dolphin Bay
2 the presence of a meander in Turtle River just above Dolphin Bay
3 the difference in salt content in the waters of Clear Lake and Dolphin Bay
4 a decrease in the current velocity of Turtle River as it enters Dolphin Bay
How do the size and the density of the particles deposited in Dolphin Bay generally change as distance from
the shoreline increases?
1 Both size and density decrease.
2 Both size and density increase.
3 Size decreases and density increases.
4 Size increases and density decreases.
Which diagram best represents the profile of the river bottom between points C and B?
Which change will occur if the volume (discharge) of Turtle River increases?
1 Downcutting will decrease and riverbank erosion will increase.
2 Downcutting will increase and riverbank erosion will decrease.
3 Both downcutting and riverbank erosion will decrease.
4 Both downcutting and riverbank erosion will increase.
If no further uplift occurs within the mapped area over the next 200 years, the average gradient of the
riverbed between points A and D will
1 decrease, only
2 increase, only
3 decrease, then increase
4 remain the same
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram is a geologic cross section of the rocks that
underlie parts of southern New York State and northern New Jersey. Landscape regions are indicated across
the top of the diagram.
The portions of New York City shown in the geologic cross section is located in which landscape region?
1 Hudson Highlands
2 Manhattan Prong
3 Newark Lowlands
4 Atlantic Coastal Plain
Which inference explains the existence of the ridges and valleys of the Newark Lowlands?
1 The igneous rocks are more resistant to weathering and erosion than the sedimentary rocks are.
2 The sedimentary rocks are more resistant to weathering and erosion than the igneous rocks are.
3 Both the sedimentary and the igneous rocks are highly resistant to weathering and erosion.
4 Neither the sedimentary nor the igneous rocks are resistant to weathering and erosion.
The boundaries between the landscape regions represented in the cross section are marked by
1 a fault, only
2 a change in rock type, only
3 a fault, or a change in rock type and rock structure, only
4 a fault, or change in rock type, rock structure, and surface elevation
Which important New York State fossil is most likely to be found in the Triassic Age rocks in the Newark
Lowlands?
1 eurypterid
2 mastodont
3 Coelophysis
4 Naples tree
A more detailed view of the Ramapo fault region is shown below.
The geologic evidence shown in the diagram indicates that
1 rock S is older than rock T
2 rock T is older than rock U
3 rock S is older than rock R
4 rock R is older than the Ramapo fault
Through which of the following loose soil materials does water infiltrate fastest?
1 clay
2 silt
3 sand
4 pebbles
The diagram below shows the sequence of events leading to the deposition of landslide debris.
What was the primary force that caused this landslide?
1 gravity
2 moving ice
3 prevailing winds
4 stream discharge
Which condition makes surface runoff of rainfall most likely?
1 The gradient of the surface is low.
2 Permeability rate exceeds the rate of rainfall.
3 Surface soil pore spaces are filled.
4 The porosity of the surface soil is high.
Diagram I below shows a laboratory setup for observing the settling pattern in water of sediments composed
of the same mineral. When the sediments in the container were poured into the tube of water, they settled to
the bottom in the pattern shown in diagram II below. [Diagram II is enlarged to show the sedimentary
particles.]
Which characteristic of the sedimentary particles most likely caused the pattern of deposition shown in
diagram II?
1 particle shape
2 particle size
3 particle composition
4 particle density
The diagram below shows rock material being transported by a mountain glacier.
The moraine deposits left when this glacier melts will generally be
1 sorted by size and layered
2 sorted by size and unlayered
3 unsorted by size and layered
4 unsorted by size and unlayered
The photograph below shows an arch of rock located in the western United States.
How did the arch most likely form?
1 The bedrock in the arch was more resistant to weathering and erosion than the surrounding bedrock that
was removed.
2 An earthquake forced bedrock upward into the shape of an arch.
3 Sand and gravel were deposited and compacted in the shape of an arch.
4 An underground glacier tunneled through the bedrock.
The diagrams below represent two different plateaus.
Which factor was probably most important in causing one plateau to develop smooth, rounded surface
features and the other plateau to develop sharp, angular surface features?
1 type of bedrock
2 amount of folding
3 time
4 climate
Which characteristics best distinguish one landscape region from another?
1 human population density and types of environmental pollutants
2 composition of bedrock and variety of fossils
3 bedrock structure and elevation of land surfaces
4 stream gradients and soil types
As the velocity of a stream decreases, the amount of sediment in the water of the stream
1 decreases
2 increases
3 remains the same
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram represents the landscape features associated with
a meandering river. Letters W, X, Y, and Z represent locations on the floodplain.
The diagram below represents stages in the formation of this meandering river.
Which sequence best represents the usual changes over time?
(1) A B C
(2) A C B
(3) C A B
(4) C B A
At which location is erosion greatest?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
The natural levees are ridges of sediment that slope away from the riverbank toward the floodplain. Which
process most likely formed these levees?
1 weathering of the soil on the riverbanks
2 erosion on the inside curves of the meanders
3 deposition by the Yazoo stream
4 deposition when the river overflowed its banks
During transport by this river, a sediment particle will most likely become
1 more rounded
2 more dense
3 heavier
4 larger
Which change would most likely increase the velocity of the river?
1 a decrease in the slope of the river
2 a decrease in the temperature of the river
3 an increase in the river’s discharge
4 an increase in the width of the river
A stream entering a lake deposits sediments on the lake bottom in the pattern shown on the map below.
Which corner of the map is nearest to the point where the stream flows into the lake?
1 northeast (NE)
2 northwest (NW)
3 southeast (SE)
4 southwest (SW)
The columns A, B, C, and D shown below contain equal volumes of sediment.
When an equal volume of water is added to each column, the greatest rate of infiltration will occur in which
column?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows a meandering
stream. Letters A, B, C, and D indicate locations on the streambed.
At which two locations is the rate of erosion greater than the rate of deposition?
(1) A and B
(2) B and C
(3) C and D
(4) D and A
What are the largest particles that this stream can transport when its velocity is 200 centimeters per second?
(1) silt
(2) sand
(3) pebbles
(4) cobbles
A decrease in the velocity of this stream will most likely cause an increase in
(1) the amount of sediment carried by the stream
(2) the size of the particles carried by the stream
(3) deposition within the stream channel
(4) abrasion of the stream channel
Base your answers to the following two questions on the geologic cross section shown below and on your
knowledge of Earth science. The cross section shows the surface of a landscape region in the southwestern
United States and indicates the age, type, and thickness of the bedrock.
State one characteristic, other than the horizontal bedrock structure, shown in the cross section that supports
the idea that this region is correctly classified as a plateau landscape.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which New York State landscape region has surface bedrock of the same geologic age as the surface
bedrock shown in this cross section?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which surface soil type has the slowest permeability rate and is most likely to produce flooding?
(1) pebbles
(2) sand
(3) silt
(4) clay
New York State landscape regions are identified and classified primarily by their
(1) surface topography and bedrock structure
(2) existing vegetation and type of weather
(3) latitude and longitude
(4) chemical weathering rate and nearness to large bodies of water
A stream flowing at a velocity of 75 centimeters per second can transport
(1) clay, only
(2) pebbles, only
(3) pebbles, sand, silt, and clay, only
(4) boulders, cobbles, pebbles, sand, silt, and clay
The cross sections below show a three-stage sequence in the development of a glacial feature.
Which glacial feature has formed by the end of stage 3?
(1) kettle lake
(2) finger lake
(3) drumlin
(4) parallel scratches
The map below shows barrier islands in the ocean along the coast of Texas.
Which agent of erosion most likely formed these barrier islands?
(1) mass movement
(2) wave action
(3) streams
(4) glaciers
What will be the most probable arrangement of rock particles deposited directly by a glacier?
(1) sorted and layered
(2) sorted and not layered
(3) unsorted and layered
(4) unsorted and not layered
The cross section below shows soil layer X, which was formed from underlying bedrock.
Which change would most likely cause soil layer X to increase in thickness?
(1) a decrease in slope
(2) a decrease in rainfall
(3) an increase in biologic activity
(4) an increase in air pressure
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows a coastal region in
which the land slopes toward the ocean. Point X is near the top of the hill, point Y is at the base of the hill,
and point Z is a location at sea level. The same type of surface bedrock underlies this entire region. A stream
flows from point X through point Y to point Z. This stream is not shown in the diagram.
Which diagram best shows the most probable path of the stream flowing from point X to point Z?
Compared to the stream velocity between point X and point Y, the stream velocity between point Y and point
Z is most likely
(1) greater, since the slope of the land decreases
(2) greater, since the slope of the land increases
(3) less, since the slope of the land decreases
(4) less, since the slope of the land increases
Which cross section best shows the pattern of sediments deposited by the stream as it enters the ocean near
point Z?
The diagrams below represent three containers, A, B, and C, which were filled with equal volumes of
uniformly sorted plastic beads. Water was poured into each container to determine porosity and infiltration
time.
Which data table best represents the porosity and infiltration time of the beads in the three containers?
The map below shows the large delta that formed as the Mississippi River emptied into the Gulf of Mexico.
Which process was primarily responsible for the formation of the delta?
(1) glacial erosion
(2) cementation of sediment
(3) deposition of sediment
(4) mass movement
A stream is transporting the particles W, X, Y, and Z, shown below.
Which particle will most likely settle to the bottom first as the velocity of this stream decreases?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
New York State’s Catskills are classified as which type of landscape region?
(1) mountain
(2) plateau
(3) lowland
(4) plain
Which diagram represents a landscape where fine-grained igneous bedrock is most likely to be found?
Base your answers to the following two questions on the graph below, which shows the effect that average
yearly precipitation and temperature have on the type of weathering that will occur in a particular region.
Which type of weathering is most common where the average yearly temperature is 5°C and the average
yearly precipitation is 45 cm?
(1) moderate chemical weathering
(2) very slight weathering
(3) moderate chemical weathering with frost action
(4) slight frost action
The amount of chemical weathering will increase if
(1) air temperature decreases and precipitation decreases
(2) air temperature decreases and precipitation increases
(3) air temperature increases and precipitation decreases
(4) air temperature increases and precipitation increases
In hot, wet climates, bedrock rapidly weathers into soil because water
1 dissolves many minerals
2 expands when it freezes
3 is part of most chemical compounds
4 cools the surroundings when it evaporates
Which graph best shows the general relationship between stream velocity and the diameter of particles
transported by a stream?
A sediment particle transported by a stream over a long period of time will most likely show
1 a decrease in mass and number of angular edges
2 a decrease in density and size
3 an increase in weight and hardness
4 an increase in volume and number of cleavage planes
Which diagram represents a plateau landscape?
The generalized geologic cross section below represents part of New York and Vermont.
A major landscape region boundary is shown at location
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram represents samples of soil and bedrock at Earth’s
surface. The arrows represent possible infiltration of rainwater.
The least amount of rainwater will infiltrate the surface of the
1 pebble soil
2 pebble-and-sand soil
3 conglomerate bedrock
4 granite bedrock
Which sample probably has the greatest porosity?
1 pebble soil
2 pebble-and-sand soil
3 conglomerate bedrock
4 granite bedrock
The pebble-and-sand soil has greater capillarity than the pebble soil because the pebble-and-sand soil
1 is weathering more rapidly
2 is more loosely packed
3 has smaller pore spaces
4 has less surface area
Which three minerals are usually found in granite?
1 biotite, olivine, and hornblende
2 quartz, pyroxene, and olivine
3 potassium, feldspar, quartz, and hornblende
4 plagioclase feldspar, biotite, and pyroxene
Zones within soil and rock are classified by the water movement occurring in the zones. Which diagram best
represents the most common arrangement of these zones?
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram represents a profile of a mountain glacier in the
northern United States.
The downhill movement of mountain glaciers such as the one shown in the diagram is primarily caused by
1 evaporation of ice directly from the glacier
2 snow blowing across the top of the glacier
3 the force of gravity pulling on the glacier
4 water flowing over the glacier
The velocity of the ice movement is primarily controlled by the
1 slope of the bedrock surface
2 amount of sediment at the terminal moraine
3 length of the glacier
4 size of the sediment transported by the glacier
Over a period of years, this glacier gains more snow mass than it loses. What will be the most likely result of
this gain?
1 The glacier will decrease in size, and the ice front will retreat.
2 The glacier will decrease in size, and the ice front will advance.
3 The glacier will increase in size, and the ice front will retreat.
4 The lacier will increase in size, and the ice front will advance.
Which cross section best represents the sediment that was transported and deposited by this glacier?
If the climate warms, causing the glacier to melt away, the region that the glacier formerly occupied will be a
(1) U-shaped valley with polished bedrock
(2) V-shaped valley with jagged bedrock
(3) flat plain with bedrock that has been metamorphosed
(4) deep ocean trench with bedrock that has been melted and cooled
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth Science. The diagram represents the landscape features associated with
a meandering stream. Points W, X, Y, and Z are locations along the stream bank.
At which location is erosion greatest?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
The oxbow lake most likely formed when a
1 stream changed its path
2 crater flooded
3 cavern roof collapsed
4 fault block subsided
Sediment is usually deposited by the stream at locations where the stream
1 decreases in velocity
2 decreases in width
3 increases in potential energy
4 increases in slope
Which material does the stream carry in solution?
1 sand
2 silt
3 colloids
4 ions
Which graph shows how changes in stream discharge usually affect stream velocity?
A 25-gram sample of halite was placed in a jar with five other mineral samples and water. The jar was
shaken vigorously for 5 minutes. The halite sample was then found to have a mass of 15 grams. What was
the rate of weathering of the halite sample?
(1) 0.50 g/min
(2) 2.0 g/min
(3) 3.0 g/min
(4) 10. g/min
Which soil condition allows the most infiltration of precipitation?
1 saturated soil
2 a steep soil surface
3 coarse-rained soil
4 an impermeable surface
The map below represents a meandering stream flowing into a lake. A student measured water depths in the
stream at three locations: A-A′, B-B′, and C-C′.
Which set of cross sections best represents the streambed at the three locations?
Soil horizons develop as a result of
1 evaporation and transpiration
2 compacting and cementing
3 weathering and biological activity
4 faulting and folding
A decrease in a river’s velocity will most likely result in more
1 erosion by the river
2 deposition within the river
3 large particles being carried by the river
4 dissolved material being picked up by the river
Four differently shaped samples of equal mass and density are dropped into still water. The diagrams below
indicate the position of each sample as it settles.
Which graph best shows the relationship of the settling time of the four samples?
A sedimentary deposit produced by wind erosion is most likely composed of
1 sorted fine-grained particles in cross-bedded layers
2 a range of particle sizes from 1.0 to 10.0 cm in diameter in thick layers
3 flat, angular boulders in unsorted piles
4 shells of varying size, shape, and composition in isolated mounds
The geologic cross section below shows surface landscape features that developed because of a human
climate.
Which change will eventually be observed if the climate of the area becomes very arid?
1 The rate of chemical weathering will increase.
2 The elevation of the entire region will increase.
3 The landscape will gradually become more rounded.
4 The slopes will gradually become steeper and more angular.
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows part of a landscape
region. Letter A indicates a steep cliff formed at the edge of the surface rock layer.
Which statement best explains why the steep cliff formed at A?
1 The surface layer is older than the rock layers below.
2 The surface layer was deposited as loose volcanic ash.
3 The surface layer is more resistant to weathering than the other layers.
4 The surface layer contains many fossils.
In which type of landscape region is this area located?
1 plateau
2 plain
3 mountain
4 alluvial fan
The cross section below shows the rock ages and landscape regions from Oswego to Binghamton, New
York.
Which factor determines the location of the boundary between the two landscape regions shown?
1 the amount of exposure the rock layers have on Earth’s surface
2 a large difference in elevation
3 a fault
4 an unconformity
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the map below,
and your knowledge of Earth science. The arrows on the map show the location and orientation of glacial
striations on the surface bedrock. Dark shading shows the locations of large moraines (glacial deposits).
The striations indicate that the movement of glacial ice was toward the
1 northeast and northwest
2 northeast and southwest
3 southeast and northwest
4 southeast and southwest
How were the striations made?
1 Frost action cracked the bedrock during the ice age.
2 Rocks at the bottom of the glaciers were dragged over the bedrock.
3 Particles carried by winds scratched the bedrock during the ice age.
4 Particles carried by glacial meltwater eroded the bedrock.
The moraines are recognized as glacial deposits because they are composed of rock materials that are
1 uniform in size and layered
2 uniform in size and not layered
3 many different sizes and layered
4 many different sizes and not layered
The Harbor Hill Moraine and the Ronkonkoma Moraine are believed to have formed during the
1 Jurassic Period
2 Cambrian Period
3 Pleistocene Epoch
4 Pennsylvanian Epoch
Observations of which feature would be most useful in determining the thickness of the ice sheet?
1 grooved bedrock near the top of Bear Mountain
2 glacial soils in southern Connecticut
3 glacial boulders at the bottom of Long Island Sound
4 scratches on loose rock at the mouth of the Hudson River
Which property would best distinguish sediment deposited by a river from sediment deposited by a glacier?
(1) mineral composition of the sediment
(2) amount of sediment sorting
(3) thickness of sediment layers
(4) age of fossils found in the sediment
The photograph below shows a sand dune that formed in a coastal area.
This sand dune was most likely formed by
(1) water flowing from the left
(2) water flowing from the right
(3) wind blowing from the left
(4) wind blowing from the right
The block diagram below shows a displacement of rock layers.
Which process describes the downward sliding of the rock material?
(1) tidal changes
(2) glacial erosion
(3) mass movement
(4) lava flow
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows a model used to
investigate the erosional-depositional system of a stream. The model was tilted to create a gentle slope, and a
hose supplied water to form the meandering stream shown.
Which diagram best represents where erosion, E, and deposition, D, are most likely occurring along the
curves of the meandering stream?
Which diagram best represents the arrangement of large, L, and small, S, sediment deposited as the stream
enters the water basin?
How can the model be changed to increase the amount of sediment transported by the stream?
(1) decrease the temperature of the sediment
(2) decrease the slope
(3) increase the size of the sediment
(4) increase the rate of the water flow
Base your answers to the following four questions on the cross section and block diagram below. The cross
section shows an enlarged view of the stream shown in the block diagram. The sediments in the cross section
are drawn to actual size. Arrows show the movement of particles in the stream. The block diagram represents
a region of Earth’s surface and the bedrock beneath the region.
After measuring the actual size, identify the name of the largest particle shown on the stream bottom in the
cross section.
_________________________________________________________
What process is responsible for producing the rounded shape of the particles shown on the stream bottom in
the cross section?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Identify the type of rock shown in the block diagram that appears to be the most easily eroded.
_________________________________________________________
How does the shape of a valley eroded by a glacier differ from the shape of the valley shown in the block
diagram?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which graph best represents the relationship between soil particle size and the rate at which water infiltrates
permeable soil?
The map below shows the stream drainage patterns for a region of Earth’s surface. Points A, B, C, and D are
locations in the region.
The highest elevation most likely exists at point
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Outwash plains are formed as a result of deposition by
(1) landslides
(2) ocean waves
(3) winds from hurricanes
(4) meltwater from glaciers
A stream with a velocity of 100 centimeters per second flows into a lake. Which sediment-size particles
would the stream most likely deposit first as it enters the lake?
(1) boulders
(2) cobbles
(3) pebbles
(4) sand
The cross section below shows a soil profile.
This soil was formed primarily by
(1) erosion by glaciers
(2) erosion by running water
(3) capillarity and human activity
(4) weathering and biological activity
In which New York State landscape region is most of the surface bedrock composed of metamorphic rock?
(1) Adirondacks
(2) Catskills
(3) Erie-Ontario Lowlands
(4) Newark Lowlands
The map below shows the path of a river. The arrow shows the direction the river is flowing.
Letters A and B identify the banks of the river.
The water depth is greater near bank A than bank B because the water velocity near bank A is
(1) faster, causing deposition to occur
(2) faster, causing erosion to occur
(3) slower, causing deposition to occur
(4) slower, causing erosion to occur
The cross section below shows the movement of wind-driven sand particles that strike a partly exposed
basalt cobble located at the surface of a windy desert.
Which cross section best represents the appearance of this cobble after many years of exposure to the winddriven sand?
Base your answers to the following three questions on the map below, which shows the drainage basin of the
Mississippi River system. Several rivers that flow into the Mississippi River are labeled. The arrow at
location X shows where the Mississippi River enters the Gulf of Mexico.
The entire land area drained by the Mississippi River system is referred to as a
(1) levee
(2) watershed
(3) meander belt
(4) floodplain
Sediments deposited at location X by the Mississippi River most likely have which characteristics?
(1) angular fragments arranged as mixtures
(2) rock particles arranged in sorted beds
(3) rocks with parallel scratches and grooves
(4) high-density minerals with hexagonal crystals
The structure formed by the deposition of sediments at location X is best described as a
(1) moraine
(2) tributary
(3) delta
(4) drumlin
The diagram below shows points A, B, C, and D on a meandering stream.
At which point does the greatest stream erosion occur?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which change at a particular location in a stream usually causes more sediments to be deposited at that
location?
(1) decrease in stream velocity
(2) decrease in stream width
(3) increase in stream slope
(4) increase in stream discharge
The diagrams below represent four permeable sediment samples. The sediments are composed of the same
material, but differ in particle size and sorting. Which sediment sample will most likely have the fastest
groundwater infiltration rate?
The sequence of bedrock cross sections below represents the same landscape region over a period of
geologic time.
This sequence best represents
(1) an arid region that experienced mostly uplifting forces
(2) an arid region that experienced mostly erosional forces
(3) a humid region that experienced mostly uplifting forces
(4) a humid region that experienced mostly erosional forces
Large garnet mineral crystals are found in the metamorphic surface bedrock in which New York State
landscape region?
(1) Catskills
(2) Adirondacks
(3) Erie-Ontario Lowlands
(4) Tug Hill Plateau
The block diagram below represents a deeply eroded dome.
Which map shows the stream drainage pattern that would most likely develop on this deeply eroded dome?
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows a clear plastic tube
containing water and a beaker containing a mixture of rounded quartz grains of different sizes.
When the rounded quartz grains are poured all at once into the tube, the grains will settle to the bottom of the
tube. On the cross section provided below, draw the approximate grain sizes and pattern of arrangement of
the rounded quartz grains at the bottom of the tube.
The side-view diagram below shows the same mixture and amount of rounded quartz grains being poured all
at once into a moving stream with a depth of 3 meters.
Describe the general location of the 2-mm-diameter rounded quartz grains compared to the 4-mm-diameter
rounded quartz grains as they are transported and deposited downstream.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
New York State’s Adirondacks are classified as a mountain landscape region. Describe one bedrock
characteristic and one land surface characteristic that were used to classify the Adirondacks as a mountain
landscape region.
The profile below shows the average diameter of sediment that was sorted and deposited in specific areas
A, B, C, and D by a stream entering an ocean.
As compaction and cementation of these sediments eventually occur, which area will become siltstone?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Glaciers often form parallel scratches and grooves in bedrock because glaciers
(1) deposit sediment in unsorted piles
(2) deposit rounded sand in V-shaped valleys
(3) continually melt and refreeze
(4) drag loose rocks over Earth’s surface
The photograph below shows an eroded plateau found in the southwestern United States.
The landscape was developed by the processes of
(1) crustal uplift and stream erosion
(2) crustal uplift and glacial erosion
(3) crustal folding and stream erosion
(4) crustal folding and glacial erosion
The map below shows major streams in the New York State area. The bold lines mark off sections A through
I within New York State.
The best title for the map would be
(1) “Tectonic Plate Boundaries in New York State”
(2) “Bedrock Geology Locations of New York State”
(3) “Landscape Regions of New York State”
(4) “Watershed Areas of New York State”
During a heavy rainfall, runoff will be greatest on a soil that has an infiltration (permeability) rate of
(1) 0.1 cm/sec
(2) 0.2 cm/sec
(3) 0.3 cm/sec
(4) 1.2 cm/sec
A student performed a laboratory activity in which water was poured slowly into four cups containing equal
volumes of loosely packed sediment samples, as shown in the diagram below. All particles were spherical in
shape and uniform in size within a container. After the water level reached the surface of each sample, the
student determined the amount of water that had been added.
The results of the activity should have indicated that approximately equal amounts of water were added to
the cups of
(1) silt and pebbles, only
(2) sand, silt, and pebbles, only
(3) pebbles and the mixture, only
(4) sand, pebbles, and the mixture, only
Which graph best represents the relationship between surface-water runoff and stream discharge?
The photograph below shows an outcrop of horizontal rock layers in New York State.
Rock outcrops like this are most commonly found in which area of New York State?
(1) Hudson Highlands
(2) Adirondack Mountains
(3) Atlantic Coastal Plain
(4) Appalachian Plateau
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows igneous rock that has
undergone mainly physical weathering into sand and mainly chemical weathering into clay.
Compare the particle size of the physically weathered fragments to the particle size of the chemically
weathered fragments.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Describe the change in temperature and moisture conditions that would cause an increase in the rate of
chemical weathering into clay.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
If the igneous rock is a layer of vesicular andesite, identify three types of mineral grains that could be found
in the sand.
Base your answers to the following three questions on the information and diagram below and on the data
table provided below.
A student used water, a trough, a timer, a Ping-Pong ball, and a metric ruler to investigate waterflow. The
trough was set at different angles to compile the data in the data table provided below.
Calculate the average velocity of the water flowing down the trough in each position,
A, B, C, and D. Record your answers in the data table provided below.
Express your answers to the nearest tenth.
State the purpose of the student’s investigation.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Based on the data and the values you calculated for average stream velocity, state an appropriate conclusion
to this investigation.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
An environmental scientist needs to prepare a report on the potential effects that a proposed surface mine in
New York State will have on the watershed where the mine will be located. In which reference materials will
the scientist find the most useful data with which to determine the watershed’s boundaries?
(1) topographic maps
(2) geologic time scales
(3) tectonic plate maps
(4) planetary wind maps
The map below shows a meandering river. A–A′is the location of a cross section. The arrows show the
direction of the riverflow.
Which cross section best represents the shape of the river bottom at A–A′?
During a rainfall, surface runoff will probably be greatest in an area that has a
(1) steep slope and a clay-covered surface
(2) steep slope and a gravel-covered surface
(3) gentle slope and a grass-covered surface
(4) gentle slope and a tree-covered surface
The cross section below illustrates the general sorting of sediment by a river as it flows from a mountain to a
plain.
Which factor most likely caused the sediment to be sorted in the pattern shown?
(1) velocity of the river water
(2) hardness of the surface bedrock
(3) mineral composition of the sediment
(4) temperature of the water
The long, sandy islands along the south shore of Long Island are composed mostly of sand and rounded
pebbles arranged in sorted layers. The agent of erosion that most likely shaped and sorted the sand and
pebbles while transporting them to their island location was
(1) glaciers
(2) landslides
(3) wind
(4) ocean waves
Which river is a tributary branch of the Hudson River?
(1) Delaware River
(2) Susquehanna River
(3) Mohawk River
(4) Genesee River
What are the largest particles that a stream can transport when its velocity is 200 centimeters per second?
(1) silt
(2) sand
(3) pebbles
(4) cobbles
The diagrams below show the relative sizes of particles from soil samples A, B, and C. Equal volumes of
each soil sample were placed in separate containers. Each container has a screen at the bottom. Water was
poured through each sample to determine the infiltration rate.
Which graph best shows how the infiltration rates of the three soil samples would compare?
What is the minimum rate of flow at which a stream of water can maintain the transportation of pebbles 1.0
centimeter in diameter?
(1) 50 cm/sec
(2) 100 cm/sec
(3) 150 cm/sec
(4) 200 cm/sec
Which activity demonstrates chemical weathering?
(1) freezing of water in the cracks of a sandstone sidewalk
(2) abrasion of a streambed by tumbling rocks
(3) grinding of talc into a powder
(4) dissolving of limestone by acid rain
Unsorted, angular, rough-surfaced cobbles and boulders are found at the base of a cliff. What most likely
transported these cobbles and boulders?
(1) running water
(2) wind
(3) gravity
(4) ocean currents
The greatest amount of rainwater infiltration occurs on the side of a hill if the surface of a permeable
soil has
(1) small soil particles and a steep slope
(2) small soil particles and a gentle slope
(3) large soil particles and a steep slope
(4) large soil particles and a gentle slope
Base your answers to the following three questions on the geologic cross section and the table below. The
cross section represents the bedrock structure beneath four landscape regions, A, B, C, and D.
Which terms best describe the surface landscapes of A, B, C, and D?
(1) A—mountains, B—ridges and valleys, C—plateau, D—plain
(2) A—plateau, B—plain, C—mountains, D—ridges and valleys
(3) A—plain, B—mountains, C—plateau, D—plain
(4) A—ridges and valleys, B—plateau, C—plain, D—mountains
The meandering streams shown in landscape region B usually form where there are
(1) volcanic cones
(2) gentle gradients
(3) many fractures in the bedrock
(4) numerous escarpments
The sharp, angular flat-topped hills (mesas) in landscape region C were most likely produced by a climate
that was
(1) tropical
(2) humid
(3) dry
(4) polar
The two photographs below show dates on tombstones found in a cemetery in St. Remy, New York. The
tombstones were 5 meters apart and both faced north. Tombstone A had dates cut into the rock in 1922.
Tombstone B had dates cut into the rock in 1892.
Which statement best explains why the dates are more difficult to read on tombstone A than on tombstone B?
(1) Tombstone A is composed of minerals less resistant to weathering than tombstone B.
(2) Tombstone A has undergone a longer period of weathering than tombstone B.
(3) Tombstone A experienced cooler temperatures than tombstone B.
(4) Tombstone A was exposed to less acid rain than tombstone B.
Which statement best describes sediments deposited by glaciers and rivers?
(1) Glacial deposits and river deposits are both sorted.
(2) Glacial deposits are sorted, and river deposits are unsorted.
(3) Glacial deposits are unsorted, and river deposits are sorted.
(4) Glacial deposits and river deposits are both unsorted.
Soil composed of which particle size usually has the greatest capillarity?
(1) silt
(2) fine sand
(3) coarse sand
(4) pebbles
During a dry summer, the flow of most large New York State streams generally
(1) continues because some groundwater seeps into the streams
(2) increases due to greater surface runoff
(3) remains unchanged due to transpiration from grasses, shrubs, and trees
(4) stops completely because no water runs off into the streams
The picture below shows a geological feature in the Kalahari Desert of southwestern Africa.
Which process most likely produced the present appearance of this feature?
(1) wind erosion
(2) volcanic eruption
(3) earthquake vibrations
(4) plate tectonics
When the velocity of a stream suddenly decreases, the sediment being transported undergoes an increase in
(1) particle density
(2) erosion
(3) deposition
(4) mass movement
The satellite photograph below shows a geologic feature composed of silt, sand, and clay.
The geologic feature shown in the photograph was primarily deposited by which agent of erosion?
(1) glaciers
(2) wind
(3) wave action
(4) running water
Base your answers to the following two questions on the cross section below. The cross section represents a
part of Texas where weakly cemented sandstone is exposed at the surface. The mineral cement holding the
sandstone grains together is calcite. Area X is a circular depression of loose sand that has been partially
removed by prevailing winds. Sand dunes have developed downwind from depression X.
On the diagram of the area of sand dune development provided below, draw a sketch showing the general
side-view of a sand dune formed by a wind blowing in the direction indicated. Your sketch should clearly
show any variations in the slope of the sides of the dune.
The cross section below shows this same area of Texas near the end of the last ice age when this area had a
much wetter climate. More infiltration of rainwater was occurring at area X. Scientists infer that depression X
was an area where slightly acidic rainwater collected and infiltrated into the sandstone.
Describe the effect that the slightly acidic infiltrating water had on the calcite cement holding the sandstone
together.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
In the cartoon below, Lucy gives Linus incorrect information about pebbles.
If Lucy wanted to give Linus correct information about pebbles, which statement would be most accurate?
(1) Pebbles can become cemented together to form a rock called gabbro.
(2) Pebble is the name given to the smallest-size sediment.
(3) Any large rock that weathers could become a pebble.
(4) Magma is composed of pebbles.
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below. Columns A, B, C, and D are
partially filled with different sediments. Within each column, the sediment is uniform in size. A fine wire
mesh screen covers the bottom of each column to prevent the sediment from falling out. The lower part of
each column has just been placed in a beaker of water. Sediment sizes are not drawn to scale.
Which column contains sediment with an average diameter closest to 0.1 centimeter?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
In which sediment will capillary action cause the water from the beaker to rise fastest in the column?
(1) small pebbles
(2) large sand
(3) medium sand
(4) large silt
In an experiment, the beakers of water were removed and replaced with empty beakers. The sediments were
allowed to dry. Then water was poured into each column to compare the permeability of the sediments. The
permeability rate of the medium sand sample was shown to be
(1) less than the silt and pebble samples
(2) less than the silt sample but more than the pebble sample
(3) greater than the silt sample but less than the pebble sample
(4) greater than the silt and pebble samples
Two streams begin at the same elevation and have equal volumes. Which statement best explains why one
stream could be flowing faster than the other stream?
(1) The faster stream contains more dissolved minerals.
(2) The faster stream has a much steeper gradient.
(3) The streams are flowing in different directions.
(4) The faster stream has a temperature of 10°C, and the slower stream has a temperature of 20°C.
The four particles shown in the table below are of equal volume and are dropped into a column filled with
water.
Which particle would usually settle most rapidly?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
In general, the probability of flooding decreases when there is an increase in the amount of
(1) precipitation
(2) infiltration
(3) runoff
(4) snow melt
The map below shows some features along an ocean shoreline.
In which general direction is the sand being moved along this shoreline by ocean (longshore) currents?
(1) northeast
(2) southeast
(3) northwest
(4) southwest
Base your answers to the following three questions on the notes below written by a student during field trips
to three different locations in New York State.
a State the agent of erosion that deposited most of the sediment found at location A.
b State one observation recorded by the student that supports this conclusion.
Some samples of sediment collected from the streambed at location B are shown below.
Explain why these samples are smooth and have rounded shapes.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Explain how ice in cracks on the cliff at location C may have helped cause weathering of the bedrock on the
face of the cliff.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which factor has the greatest influence on the weathering rate of Earth’s surface bedrock?
(1) local air pressure
(2) angle of insolation
(3) age of the bedrock
(4) regional climate
Base your answers to the following three questions on the block diagram below, which shows some of the
landscape features formed as the most recent continental glacier melted and retreated across western New
York State.
During which geologic epoch did this glacier retreat from New York State?
(1) Pleistocene
(2) Eocene
(3) Late Pennsylvanian
(4) Early Mississippian
The moraines pictured in the block diagram were deposited directly by the glacier. The sediments
within these moraines are most likely
(1) sorted by size and layered
(2) sorted by size and unlayered
(3) unsorted by size and layered
(4) unsorted by size and unlayered
The shape of elongated hills labeled drumlins is most useful in determining the
(1) age of the glacier
(2) direction of glacial movement
(3) thickness of the glacial ice
(4) rate of glacial movement
Which graph best represents the general relationship between soil particle size and the permeability rate of
infiltrating rainwater?
The table below describes the characteristics of three landscape regions, A, B, and C, found in the United
States.
Which list best identifies landscapes A, B, and C?
(1) A—mountain, B—plain, C—plateau
(2) A—plain, B—plateau, C—mountain
(3) A—plateau, B—mountain, C—plain
(4) A—plain, B—mountain, C—plateau
Base your answers to the following three questions on the map below, which shows a portion of a stream in
New York State that flows southward. Letters A through E represent locations in the stream. Line XY
is the location of a cross section.
At which two locations in this stream is deposition normally dominant over erosion?
(1) A and D
(2) B and E
(3) C and E
(4) D and C
Where this stream’s velocity decreases from 300 to 200 centimeters per second, which size sediment
will be deposited?
(1) cobbles
(2) sand
(3) silt
(4) clay
Which cross section along line XY best represents the shape of the stream bottom?
The diagram below represents a naturally occurring geologic process.
Which process is best illustrated by the diagram?
(1) cementation
(2) erosion
(3) metamorphism
(4) weathering
When rainfall occurs, the rainwater will most likely become surface runoff if the land surface is
(1) sandy
(2) impermeable
(3) covered with grass
(4) nearly flat
The diagrams below show gradual stages 1, 2, and 3 in the development of a river delta where a river enters
an ocean.
Which statement best explains why the river delta is developing at this site?
(1) The rate of deposition is less than the rate of erosion.
(2) The rate of deposition is greater than the rate of erosion.
(3) Sea level is slowly falling.
(4) Sea level is slowly rising.
The list below shows characteristics that vary from place to place on Earth.
a Radioactive substances
b Bedrock structures
c Duration of insolation
d Hillslopes
e Stream patterns
f Atmospheric composition
Observations and measurements of which three characteristics would be most useful in describing
landscapes?
(1) a, b, and c
(2) b, c, and f
(3) b, d, and e
(4) d, e, and f
The diagram below shows a meandering stream flowing across nearly flat topography and over loose
sediments.
If arrow length represents stream velocity, which diagram best shows the relative stream velocities in this
section of the stream?
The topographic map below shows a particular landscape.
Which map best represents the stream drainage pattern for this landscape?
Base your answers to the following two questions on the cross section and data table shown below. The cross
section shows a sediment-laden river flowing into the ocean. The arrows show the direction of river flow.
Different zones of sorted sediments, A, B, C, and D, have been labeled. Sediments have been taken from
these zones and measured. The data table shows the range of sediment sizes in each zone.
How is this pattern of horizontal sorting produced?
(1) High-density materials generally settle more slowly.
(2) Rounded sediments generally settle more slowly.
(3) Dissolved minerals are generally deposited first.
(4) Bigger particles are generally deposited first.
The sedimentary rock, siltstone, will most likely form from sediments deposited in zone
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to the following two questions on the photograph below, which shows a mountainous
region cut by a large valley in its center.
What characteristic of this large valley supports the inference that glacial ice formed the valley?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Describe additional geologic evidence that might be found on the valley floor that would support the idea
that glacial ice formed this valley.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which geologic feature is caused primarily by chemical weathering?
(1) large caves in limestone bedrock
(2) a pattern of parallel cracks in a granite mountain
(3) blocks of basalt at the base of a steep slope
(4) the smooth, polished surface of a rock in a dry, sandy area
Where is the most deposition likely to occur?
(1) on the side of a sand dune facing the wind
(2) at the mouth of a river, where it enters an ocean
(3) at a site where glacial ice scrapes bedrock
(4) at the top of a steep slope in a streambed
The map below shows the area surrounding a meandering stream.
At which point is erosion greatest?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
What is the largest particle that can be kept in motion by a stream that has a velocity of 100 centimeters per
second?
(1) silt
(2) sand
(3) pebble
(4) cobble
The diagram below shows a glacial landscape.
Which evidence suggests that ice created this landscape?
(1) U-shaped valleys
(2) many stream valleys
(3) sorted sediment on the valley floor
(4) the landslide near the valley floor
When small particles settle through water faster than large particles, the small particles are probably
(1) lighter
(2) flatter
(3) better sorted
(4) more dense
Which graph shows the effect of soil permeability on the amount of runoff in an area?
Which condition would cause surface runoff to increase in a particular location?
(1) covering a dirt road with pavement
(2) reducing the gradient of a steep hill
(3) planting grasses and shrubs on a hillside
(4) having a decrease in the annual rainfall
The occurrence of parallel scratches on bedrock in a U-shaped valley indicates that the area has most likely
been eroded by
(1) a glacier
(2) a stream
(3) waves
(4) wind
The table below shows the rate of erosion and the rate of deposition at four stream locations.
A state of dynamic equilibrium exists at location
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
The diagram below shows granite bedrock with cracks. Water has seeped into the cracks and frozen. The
arrows represent the directions in which the cracks have widened due to weathering.
Which statement best describes the physical weathering shown by the diagram?
(1) Enlargement of the cracks occurs because water expands when it freezes.
(2) This type of weathering occurs only in bedrock composed of granite.
(3) The cracks become wider because of chemical reactions between water and the rock.
(4) This type of weathering is common in regions of primarily warm and humid climates.
Which stream-drainage pattern most likely developed on the surface of a newly formed volcanic mountain?
The cross section below shows sedimentary rocks being eroded by water at a waterfall.
The sedimentary rock layers are being weathered and eroded at different rates primarily
because the rock layers
(1) formed during different time periods
(2) contain different fossils
(3) have different compositions
(4) are horizontal
A stream with a water velocity of 150 centimeters per second decreases to a velocity of 100 centimeters per
second. Which sediment size will most likely be deposited?
(1) pebbles
(2) sand
(3) boulders
(4) cobbles
The diagram below shows a stream profile before and after an earthquake. Points A and B are locations along
the streambed.
What is the probable relationship between erosion and deposition at points A and B after the earthquake?
(1) There is more deposition at point A and more erosion at point B.
(2) There is more erosion at point A and more deposition at point B.
(3) There is more deposition than erosion at points A and B.
(4) There is more erosion than deposition at points A and B.
Which set of conditions would produce the most runoff of precipitation?
(1) gentle slope and permeable surface
(2) gentle slope and impermeable surface
(3) steep slope and permeable surface
(4) steep slope and impermeable surface
Landscapes will undergo the most chemical weathering if the climate is
(1) cool and dry
(2) cool and wet
(3) warm and dry
(4) warm and wet
The cross section below shows a V-shaped valley and the bedrock beneath the valley.
Which agent of erosion is responsible for cutting most V-shaped valleys into bedrock?
(1) surface winds
(2) running water
(3) glacial ice
(4) ocean waves
The geologic cross section below shows a hillslope and the rock layers that underlie it.
Which difference between the sandstone, shale, and limestone layers caused the formation of the relatively
gently sloped section labeled “bench”?
(1) rock age
(2) fossil content
(3) resistance to weathering
(4) amount of uranium-238
Which graph best represents the range of particle sizes that can be carried by a glacier?
The diagram below shows a stream flowing past points X and Y. If the velocity of the stream at point X is
100 centimeters per second, which statement best describes the sediments being transported past these
points?
(1) At points X and Y, only clay is being transported.
(2) At points X and Y, only sand, silt, and clay are being transported.
(3) Some pebbles being transported at point Y are bigger than those being transported at point X.
(4) Some pebbles and cobbles are being transported at points X and Y, but not sand, silt, or clay.
The cross section below illustrates the normal pattern of sediments deposited where a stream enters a lake.
Letter X represents a particular type of sediment.
a Briefly explain why deposition of sediment usually occurs where a stream enters a lake.
b Name the type of sediment most likely represented by letter X.
Weathering, Erosion, Deposition and Landscapes Test Prep
Teacher Answer Key – Guide
The presence of these evaporite rocks indicates that the shaded areas on the map at some time in the past
were
3 shallow seas
Each of these evaporite rocks is normally formed by
1 chemical processes
These evaporite deposits could be composed of which minerals?
4 halite and gypsum
The surface rocks overlying these evaporite rock layers are most likely which type of rock?
1 sedimentary
The diagram below shows what happens to a rock within a stream’s erosional-depositional system as time
passes. Which process of change is best represented by the sequence shown in the diagram?
4 weathering
Dynamic equilibrium between erosion and deposition in a river exists when the amount of deposition is
3 the same as the amount of erosion
The diagram below shows the surface features and rock structure of a section of Earth’s crust. Which stream
pattern would most likely form on this landscape region?
The block diagram below shows a portion of Earth’s surface. If the climate in this area becomes more humid,
which change will most likely occur?
1 The landscape features will become more rounded.
If layer C is Devonian in age, layer B would be most likely to contain a
1 crinoid of Pennsylvanian age
Which rocks appear to be most resistant to weathering and erosion under present climate conditions?
(1) A and G
The unconformity at interface K–Kwas created most directly by
2 a long period of weathering and erosion followed by deposition
Which event occurred before the formation of rock layer B?
2 faulting of rocks along line J–J
Which statement best explains the presence of the metamorphic rock exposed under the trees at the top of the
cross section?
3 Part of igneous rock H, which caused the metamorphism, was removed by weathering and erosion.
As water velocity of a stream increases from 25 to 225 centimeters per second, in which order will particles
of different sizes begin to move?
2 silt sand pebbles cobbles
The cross section below shows the rock structure of a deeply eroded, domed mountain region. Which map
shows the stream drainage pattern that will most likely develop as the bedrock is weathered and eroded from
this igneous dome?
The cross section below shows layers of soil. Which two processes produced the layer of dark brown to
black soil?
(3) weathering and biologic activity
In the box below, draw a cross-sectional view of the general shape of the stream bottom between points A
and B. The water surface line has already been drawn.
Student’s cross section must show that the water is deeper near point A.
Example response:
State the relationship between stream velocity and the size of the sediment the stream can carry.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— a direct relationship
— As the stream velocity increases, the stream can carry bigger sediment.
Describe how the size and shape of most pebbles change when the pebbles are transported in a stream over a
great distance.
Both the size and shape changes should be correctly described.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Size: The pebbles become smaller.
The size of the pebbles decreases.
— Shape: The pebbles become rounder.
The pebbles become more spherical.
The stream velocity at point C is 100 centimeters per second and the stream velocity at point D is 40
centimeters per second. Identify one sediment particle most likely being deposited between points C and D.
pebbles or sand
Deposition is affected by particle density. On the grid below, draw a line to show the relationship between
particle density and settling rate.
A straight or curved line that shows a direct relationship should be drawn.
Example response:
The cross section below shows sedimentary bedrock layers A, B, C, and D exposed at Earth’s surface. Which
layer appears to be the least resistant to weathering?
(1) A
Which sediment size would allow water to flow through at the fastest rate?
(4) pebbles
The diagram below shows a section of a meander in a stream. The arrows show the direction of stream flow.
The streambank on the outside of this meander is steeper than the streambank on the inside of this meander
because the water on the outside of this meander is moving
(4) faster, causing erosion
Which agent of erosion is mainly responsible for the formation of the depressions occupied by both the kettle
lakes and finger lakes found in New York State?
(4) glaciers
The cross section below shows a profile of a sediment deposit. The pattern of sediment size shown indicates
that these sediments were most likely deposited within a
(4) delta
The map below shows a stream drainage pattern. Arrows show the direction of stream flow. On which
landscape region did this drainage pattern most likely develop?
Which sequence of events most likely caused the unconformity shown at the bottom of rock layer B?
(1) folding uplift erosion deposition
The folding of rock layers G through C was most likely caused by
(3) the collision of lithospheric plates
Which two letters represent bedrock of the same age?
(4) D and H
Which climatic conditions normally produce the greatest amount of chemical weathering?
4 warm and moist
Unsorted piles of angular sediments were most likely transported and deposited by
2 glaciers
Which statement best describes the conditions existing at a stream location where the erosional-depositional
system is in dynamic equilibrium?
3 Equal amounts of erosion and deposition takes place.
The graph below is incomplete because it does not identify the sediment characteristic (X) that would
produce the line plotted on the graph. Which label should be placed on the horizontal axis to accurately
complete the graph?
Which evidence best indicates that a landscape has been eroded primarily by streams?
4 sorted layers of cobbles and sand
The boundaries of landscape regions are generally well defined by changes in
4 elevation and bedrock structure
The block diagrams below show cross sections of the crust in a landscape that has undergone gradual change.
The hardened lava in this volcano’s central pipe formed a mountain peak in the late stage because the lava
plug was composed of
3 igneous rock that is resistant to erosion
Why is this pattern of horizontal sorting produced?
4 Larger particles are deposited first.
Deposition of these sediments occurs when a stream enters the ocean because the stream current
2 decreases in kinetic energy
What is the approximate velocity of the remaining stream current at point X?
(3) 30 cm/sec
Which change in the stream would cause pebbles to be deposited farther offshore?
3 an increase in the stream’s discharge
Which cross-sectional diagram best represents the appearance of the sediment deposition in this region over
time?
The primary force controlling the movement of the stream and the glacier is
3 gravity
Which feature indicates an area with a warm climate?
2 coral reef
The environmental of this area would be polluted least by
4 establishing a wildlife refuge around the lake
Which profile best represents the slope of the meandering stream between points A and B?
Which landscape best represents the shape of the valleys occupied by glaciers?
Landscapes with horizontal bedrock structure, steep slopes, and high elevations are classified as
(1) plateau regions
Which surface soil conditions allow the most infiltration of rainwater?
(3) gentle slope and permeable soil
The map below shows a river emptying into an ocean, producing a delta. Which graph best represents the
relationship between the distance from the river delta into the ocean and the average size of sediments
deposited on the ocean floor?
The diagram below represents a map view of a stream drainage pattern. Which underlying bedrock structure
most likely produced this stream drainage pattern?
Explain how the differences between the type 1 and type 3 stream channels indicate that the average
velocities of the streams are different.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
The type 3 stream meanders more.
The type 3 stream occupies a wider floodplain.
The type 1 stream has a straighter course.
Explain why the outside of the curve of a meandering channel experiences more erosion than the inside of
the curve.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
Stream velocity is greater on the outside of the meandering channel.
Stream flow is slower on the inside of the meandering channel.
Water is moving faster on the outside of a meander curve.
Explain how the cobbles and pebbles that were transported by these streams became smooth and rounded in
shape.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
These tumbling cobbles and pebbles were abraded against other transported rocks and the stream
channel.
Abrasion occurred as the rocks bounced and rolled along the bottom of the streambed.
Sharp corners and edges were knocked off, scraped, and/or worn down grinding against other
sediment and rocks
Note: Do not allow credit for statements that describe the water alone as the primary cause of
rounding.
According to the cross section, how thick from top to bottom is the sediment fill in Seneca Lake?
450 ft (±50)
State one possible explanation for the north-south orientation of the Finger Lakes.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
The continental ice sheet generally moved from north to south.
glacial erosion
The original stream valleys had a north-south orientation.
During some winters, a few of the Finger Lakes remain unfrozen even though the land around the lakes is
frozen. Explain how the specific heat of water can cause these lakes to remain unfrozen.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
Water has a higher specific heat than land.
Water heats and cools slowly because of its higher specific heat.
Bodies of water change temperature more slowly than surrounding land.
Identify two processes that normally occur to form the type of surface bedrock found in the Finger Lakes
Region.
Identify two correct processes. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
Sediments were deposited in water and compressed.
compaction and deposition
burial and cementation
chemical precipitation and evaporation
What is the minimum water velocity needed in a stream to maintain the transportation of the smallest
boulder?
(3) 300 cm/sec
Which event is the best example of erosion?
(3) rolling of a pebble along the bottom of a stream
The four streams shown on the topographic maps below have the same volume between X and Y. The
distance from X to Y is also the same. All the maps are drawn to the same scale and have the same contour
interval. Which map shows the stream with the greatest velocity between points X and Y?
Which block diagram best represents a portion of a plateau?
The photograph below shows a sign near the Esopus Creek in Kingston, New York. The main purpose of the
word “watershed” on this sign is to communicate that the Esopus Creek
(1) is a tributary of the Hudson River
Which bar graph best represents the relative gradients of the main rivers shown in diagrams A, B, and C?
Most sediments found on the floodplain shown in diagram A are likely to be
(4) rounded and weathered from bedrock upstream
If the same procedure was followed with tube B, which data table shows the measurements most likely
recorded?
During which geologic epoch did the Laurentide Ice Sheet advance over New York State?
Pleistocene Epoch
Describe the arrangement of rock material in the sediments that were directly deposited by the glacier.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Glacial sediment is unsorted.
— piles of mixed sediment sizes
According to the map, toward which compass direction did the ice lobe flow over the Catskills?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— southwest (SW)
— south southwest (SSW)
What evidence might be found on surface bedrock of the Catskills that would indicate the direction of ice
flow in this region?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— parallel scratches, grooves, or striations
— orientation of glacial features, such as drumlins and lateral moraines
Friction occurring at an interface always produces a
1 transformation of energy
Which word best describes the movement of the rainwater through zone A?
3 infiltration
During which time span did a water deficit most likely exist in the water budget for the surrounding area?
3 August and September
Which conditions produce the most surface water runoff?
1 steep slope, heavy rain, and frozen ground
Which stream profile best represents the cross section from A to A’?
The grooves were most likely caused by
4 glacial erosion
At which location is the erosional-depositional system of the stream in dynamic equilibrium?
(3) C
At which location is deposition most likely the dominant process?
(4) D
The labeled surface features of this landscape are resulted mainly from
4 glacial erosion
Which stream pattern is most likely present in this area?
Particle C is classified as
4 a pebble
The student finds the mass of particle B to be 2.8 grams. The actual mass of the particle is 2.6 grams. What is
the student’s percent deviation (percent error)?
(3) 7.7%
Equal masses of each of the three particles are placed in a container of weak acid and shaken. Which particle
size will weather most rapidly?
(3) C
Which inference about the density of particle A and particle B is most accurate?
1 Particle A and particle B have the same density because they are made of the same material.
Particle A has a density of 2.7 grams per cubic centimeter and a volume of 15.0 cubic centimeters. What is
the mass of this particle?
(3) 40.5 g
During Activity 1, as the 10-millimeter aluminum particle drops from A to B, the potential energy of the
particle
1 decreases
In Activity 1, the three sizes of aluminum particles are placed in a stream with a velocity that will carry them
all to a lake. Which cross section shows how the three sizes of particles are sorted when the stream slows as
it empties into the lake?
In activity 2, when the tube is turned upside down, the aluminum particles, labeled “Combination A,” are
allowed to settle. Which diagram represents the sorting that is most likely to occur?
In Activity 2, when the tube is turned upside down, the particles of three different metals, labeled
“Combination B,” are allowed to settle. Which diagram represents the sorting that is most likely to occur?
A third activity, similar in setup to Activity 1, was done using flat, oval, and round aluminum particles with
identical masses. Which table shows the most likely results of this third activity?
Which type of climate has the greatest amount of rock weathering caused by frost action?
4 A wet climate in which temperatures alternate from below freezing to above freezing
The percentage of open space between grains of soil is called the soil’s
2 porosity
At which point on the map does the amount of precipitation exceed by the greatest amount both the actual
evapotranspiration and the infiltration of water into the ground?
(1) A
What is the largest particle that can generally be transported by a stream moving at 200 centimeters per
second?
2 cobble
Quartz particles of varying sizes are dropped at the same time into deep, calm water. Which cross section
best represents the settling pattern of these particles?
What agent of erosion formed the long U-shaped valleys now occupied by the Finger Lakes in central New
York State?
1 glacial ice
Deep, parallel grooves and scratches (striations) are found on the surface of some limestone bedrock in New
York State. These scratches and grooves suggest that the surface was
2 scraped y rocks in a continental glacier
Which statement is generally true of these three drainage patterns?
1 All are controlled by underlying bedrock structure.
Which terms, when substituted for X, Y, and Z, best complete the table?
(4) X = mountains, Y = plateaus, Z = plains
The deposition in Dolphin Bay near location D is caused mainly by
4 a decrease in the current velocity of Turtle River as it enters Dolphin Bay
How do the size and the density of the particles deposited in Dolphin Bay generally change as distance from
the shoreline increases?
1 Both size and density decrease.
Which diagram best represents the profile of the river bottom between points C and B?
Which change will occur if the volume (discharge) of Turtle River increases?
4 Both downcutting and riverbank erosion will increase.
If no further uplift occurs within the mapped area over the next 200 years, the average gradient of the
riverbed between points A and D will
1 decrease, only
The portions of New York City shown in the geologic cross section is located in which landscape region?
2 Manhattan Prong
Which inference explains the existence of the ridges and valleys of the Newark Lowlands?
1 The igneous rocks are more resistant to weathering and erosion than the sedimentary rocks are.
The boundaries between the landscape regions represented in the cross section are marked by
4 a fault, or change in rock type, rock structure, and surface elevation
Which important New York State fossil is most likely to be found in the Triassic Age rocks in the Newark
Lowlands?
3 Coelophysis
The geologic evidence shown in the diagram indicates that
4 rock R is older than the Ramapo fault
Through which of the following loose soil materials does water infiltrate fastest?
4 pebbles
What was the primary force that caused this landslide?
1 gravity
Which condition makes surface runoff of rainfall most likely?
3 Surface soil pore spaces are filled.
Which characteristic of the sedimentary particles most likely caused the pattern of deposition shown in
diagram II?
2 particle size
The moraine deposits left when this glacier melts will generally be
4 unsorted by size and unlayered
How did the arch most likely form?
1 The bedrock in the arch was more resistant to weathering and erosion than the surrounding bedrock
that was removed.
Which factor was probably most important in causing one plateau to develop smooth, rounded surface
features and the other plateau to develop sharp, angular surface features?
4 climate
Which characteristics best distinguish one landscape region from another?
3 bedrock structure and elevation of land surfaces
As the velocity of a stream decreases, the amount of sediment in the water of the stream
1 decreases
Which sequence best represents the usual changes over time?
(1) A B C
At which location is erosion greatest?
(2) X
The natural levees are ridges of sediment that slope away from the riverbank toward the floodplain. Which
process most likely formed these levees?
4 deposition when the river overflowed its banks
During transport by this river, a sediment particle will most likely become
1 more rounded
Which change would most likely increase the velocity of the river?
3 an increase in the river’s discharge
Which corner of the map is nearest to the point where the stream flows into the lake?
4 southwest (SW)
When an equal volume of water is added to each column, the greatest rate of infiltration will occur in which
column?
(2) B
At which two locations is the rate of erosion greater than the rate of deposition?
(4) D and A
What are the largest particles that this stream can transport when its velocity is 200 centimeters per second?
(4) cobbles
A decrease in the velocity of this stream will most likely cause an increase in
(3) deposition within the stream channel
State one characteristic, other than the horizontal bedrock structure, shown in the cross section that supports
the idea that this region is correctly classified as a plateau landscape.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— The landscape has a high relief.
— There is a large difference in elevation between the top and bottom rocks in the cross
section.
— steep slopes
— high elevation
Which New York State landscape region has surface bedrock of the same geologic age as the surface
bedrock shown in this cross section?
Newark Lowlands
Which surface soil type has the slowest permeability rate and is most likely to produce flooding?
(4) clay
New York State landscape regions are identified and classified primarily by their
(1) surface topography and bedrock structure
A stream flowing at a velocity of 75 centimeters per second can transport
(3) pebbles, sand, silt, and clay, only
Which glacial feature has formed by the end of stage 3?
(1) kettle lake
Which agent of erosion most likely formed these barrier islands?
(2) wave action
What will be the most probable arrangement of rock particles deposited directly by a glacier?
(4) unsorted and not layered
Which change would most likely cause soil layer X to increase in thickness?
(3) an increase in biologic activity
Which diagram best shows the most probable path of the stream flowing from point X to point Z?
Compared to the stream velocity between point X and point Y, the stream velocity between point Y and point
Z is most likely
(3) less, since the slope of the land decreases
Which cross section best shows the pattern of sediments deposited by the stream as it enters the ocean near
point Z?
Which data table best represents the porosity and infiltration time of the beads in the three containers?
Which process was primarily responsible for the formation of the delta?
(3) deposition of sediment
Which particle will most likely settle to the bottom first as the velocity of this stream decreases?
(1) W
New York State’s Catskills are classified as which type of landscape region?
(2) plateau
Which diagram represents a landscape where fine-grained igneous bedrock is most likely to be found?
Which type of weathering is most common where the average yearly temperature is 5°C and the average
yearly precipitation is 45 cm?
(4) slight frost action
The amount of chemical weathering will increase if
(4) air temperature increases and precipitation increases
In hot, wet climates, bedrock rapidly weathers into soil because water
1 dissolves many minerals
Which graph best shows the general relationship between stream velocity and the diameter of particles
transported by a stream?
A sediment particle transported by a stream over a long period of time will most likely show
1 a decrease in mass and number of angular edges
Which diagram represents a plateau landscape?
A major landscape region boundary is shown at location
(2) B
The least amount of rainwater will infiltrate the surface of the
4 granite bedrock
Which sample probably has the greatest porosity?
1 pebble soil
The pebble-and-sand soil has greater capillarity than the pebble soil because the pebble-and-sand soil
3 has smaller pore spaces
Which three minerals are usually found in granite?
3 potassium, feldspar, quartz, and hornblende
Zones within soil and rock are classified by the water movement occurring in the zones. Which diagram best
represents the most common arrangement of these zones?
The downhill movement of mountain glaciers such as the one shown in the diagram is primarily caused by
3 the force of gravity pulling on the glacier
The velocity of the ice movement is primarily controlled by the
1 slope of the bedrock surface
Over a period of years, this glacier gains more snow mass than it loses. What will be the most likely result of
this gain?
4 The lacier will increase in size, and the ice front will advance.
Which cross section best represents the sediment that was transported and deposited by this glacier?
If the climate warms, causing the glacier to melt away, the region that the glacier formerly occupied will be a
(1) U-shaped valley with polished bedrock
At which location is erosion greatest?
(2) X
The oxbow lake most likely formed when a
1 stream changed its path
Sediment is usually deposited by the stream at locations where the stream
1 decreases in velocity
Which material does the stream carry in solution?
4 ions
Which graph shows how changes in stream discharge usually affect stream velocity?
A 25-gram sample of halite was placed in a jar with five other mineral samples and water. The jar was
shaken vigorously for 5 minutes. The halite sample was then found to have a mass of 15 grams. What was
the rate of weathering of the halite sample?
(2) 2.0 g/min
Which soil condition allows the most infiltration of precipitation?
3 coarse-rained soil
Which set of cross sections best represents the streambed at the three locations?
Soil horizons develop as a result of
3 weathering and biological activity
A decrease in a river’s velocity will most likely result in more
2 deposition within the river
Which graph best shows the relationship of the settling time of the four samples?
A sedimentary deposit produced by wind erosion is most likely composed of
1 sorted fine-grained particles in cross-bedded layers
Which change will eventually be observed if the climate of the area becomes very arid?
4 The slopes will gradually become steeper and more angular.
Which statement best explains why the steep cliff formed at A?
3 The surface layer is more resistant to weathering than the other layers.
In which type of landscape region is this area located?
1 plateau
Which factor determines the location of the boundary between the two landscape regions shown?
2 a large difference in elevation
The striations indicate that the movement of glacial ice was toward the
4 southeast and southwest
How were the striations made?
2 Rocks at the bottom of the glaciers were dragged over the bedrock.
The moraines are recognized as glacial deposits because they are composed of rock materials that are
4 many different sizes and not layered
The Harbor Hill Moraine and the Ronkonkoma Moraine are believed to have formed during the
3 Pleistocene Epoch
Observations of which feature would be most useful in determining the thickness of the ice sheet?
1 grooved bedrock near the top of Bear Mountain
Which property would best distinguish sediment deposited by a river from sediment deposited by a glacier?
(2) amount of sediment sorting
This sand dune was most likely formed by
(4) wind blowing from the right
Which process describes the downward sliding of the rock material?
(3) mass movement
Which diagram best represents where erosion, E, and deposition, D, are most likely occurring along the
curves of the meandering stream?
Which diagram best represents the arrangement of large, L, and small, S, sediment deposited as the stream
enters the water basin?
How can the model be changed to increase the amount of sediment transported by the stream?
(4) increase the rate of the water flow
After measuring the actual size, identify the name of the largest particle shown on the stream bottom in the
cross section.
pebble
What process is responsible for producing the rounded shape of the particles shown on the stream bottom in
the cross section?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— abrasion
— weathering
— erosion
— Particles were worn down as they were scraped along the bedrock.
Identify the type of rock shown in the block diagram that appears to be the most easily eroded.
shale
How does the shape of a valley eroded by a glacier differ from the shape of the valley shown in the block
diagram?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— A glacier forms a U-shaped valley.
— Glaciers form U-shaped valleys and streams form V-shaped valleys.
Which graph best represents the relationship between soil particle size and the rate at which water infiltrates
permeable soil?
The map below shows the stream drainage patterns for a region of Earth’s surface. Points A, B, C, and D are
locations in the region. The highest elevation most likely exists at point
(2) B
Outwash plains are formed as a result of deposition by
(4) meltwater from glaciers
A stream with a velocity of 100 centimeters per second flows into a lake. Which sediment-size particles
would the stream most likely deposit first as it enters the lake?
(3) pebbles
This soil was formed primarily by
(4) weathering and biological activity
In which New York State landscape region is most of the surface bedrock composed of metamorphic rock?
(1) Adirondacks
The water depth is greater near bank A than bank B because the water velocity near bank A is
(2) faster, causing erosion to occur
Which cross section best represents the appearance of this cobble after many years of exposure to the winddriven sand?
The entire land area drained by the Mississippi River system is referred to as a
(2) watershed
Sediments deposited at location X by the Mississippi River most likely have which characteristics?
(2) rock particles arranged in sorted beds
The structure formed by the deposition of sediments at location X is best described as a
(3) delta
At which point does the greatest stream erosion occur?
(3) C
Which change at a particular location in a stream usually causes more sediments to be deposited at that
location?
(1) decrease in stream velocity
The diagrams below represent four permeable sediment samples. The sediments are composed of the same
material, but differ in particle size and sorting. Which sediment sample will most likely have the fastest
groundwater infiltration rate?
This sequence best represents
(2) an arid region that experienced mostly erosional forces
Large garnet mineral crystals are found in the metamorphic surface bedrock in which New York State
landscape region?
(2) Adirondacks
Which map shows the stream drainage pattern that would most likely develop on this deeply eroded dome?
When the rounded quartz grains are poured all at once into the tube, the grains will settle to the bottom of the
tube. On the cross section provided below, draw the approximate grain sizes and pattern of arrangement of
the rounded quartz grains at the bottom of the tube.
Allow credit for a correct response that shows a pattern of sorting from large on the bottom to small
on top. Grains do not have to be drawn to actual size. The student drawing does not have to completely
fill the cross section either vertically or horizontally. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited
to, these examples:
Describe the general location of the 2-mm-diameter rounded quartz grains compared to the 4-mm-diameter
rounded quartz grains as they are transported and deposited downstream.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The 2-millimeter grains settle farther downstream than the 4-millimeter grains.
The 2-millimeter grains settle farther to the right.
The larger grains are not carried as far.
New York State’s Adirondacks are classified as a mountain landscape region. Describe one bedrock
characteristic and one land surface characteristic that were used to classify the Adirondacks as a mountain
landscape region.
Allow credit for a correct bedrock characteristic. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to,
these examples:
The Adirondacks have faulted, folded, and deformed bedrock.
The Adirondacks have intensely metamorphosed bedrock.
The oldest bedrock is near the center of the Adirondacks.
and
Allow credit for a correct land surface characteristic. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited
to, these examples:
The Adirondacks have high elevations.
The Adirondacks have steep slopes.
The Adirondacks are a partially eroded dome.
As compaction and cementation of these sediments eventually occur, which area will become siltstone?
(3) C
Glaciers often form parallel scratches and grooves in bedrock because glaciers
(4) drag loose rocks over Earth’s surface
The landscape was developed by the processes of
(1) crustal uplift and stream erosion
The best title for the map would be
(4) “Watershed Areas of New York State”
During a heavy rainfall, runoff will be greatest on a soil that has an infiltration (permeability) rate of
(1) 0.1 cm/sec
The results of the activity should have indicated that approximately equal amounts of water were added to
the cups of
(2) sand, silt, and pebbles, only
Which graph best represents the relationship between surface-water runoff and stream discharge?
Rock outcrops like this are most commonly found in which area of New York State?
(4) Appalachian Plateau
Compare the particle size of the physically weathered fragments to the particle size of the chemically
weathered fragments.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The physically weathered sediments are larger in particle size than the chemically weathered particles.
The sand fragments are larger than clay fragments.
The sand fragments range from 0.006 cm to 0.2 cm in diameter and the clay fragments are less than
0.0004 cm in diameter.
Describe the change in temperature and moisture conditions that would cause an increase in the rate of
chemical weathering into clay.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
Moisture and temperature should both increase.
If the igneous rock is a layer of vesicular andesite, identify three types of mineral grains that could be found
in the sand.
Students must have three of the following mineral grains:
plagioclase feldspar
biotite
amphibole
quartz or pyroxene
Note: Do not allow credit for an answer that includes both quartz and pyroxene.
Calculate the average velocity of the water flowing down the trough in each position,
A, B, C, and D. Record your answers in the data table provided below.
Express your answers to the nearest tenth.
The correct answers are shown below.
Trough A = .3 or 0.3
Trough B = .4 or 0.4
Trough C = .6 or 0.6
Trough D = .7 or 0.7
Note: Allow credit even if the answers are not rounded to the nearest tenth.
State the purpose of the student’s investigation.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
to determine the relationship between stream velocity and the slope of a streambed
Based on the data and the values you calculated for average stream velocity, state an appropriate conclusion
to this investigation.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
As the slope of the streambed increases, stream velocity increases.
or
Allow 1 credit for an appropriate response consistent with the student’s results calculated in question
75.
An environmental scientist needs to prepare a report on the potential effects that a proposed surface mine in
New York State will have on the watershed where the mine will be located. In which reference materials will
the scientist find the most useful data with which to determine the watershed’s boundaries?
(1) topographic maps
Which cross section best represents the shape of the river bottom at A–A′?
During a rainfall, surface runoff will probably be greatest in an area that has a
(1) steep slope and a clay-covered surface
Which factor most likely caused the sediment to be sorted in the pattern shown?
(1) velocity of the river water
The long, sandy islands along the south shore of Long Island are composed mostly of sand and rounded
pebbles arranged in sorted layers. The agent of erosion that most likely shaped and sorted the sand and
pebbles while transporting them to their island location was
(4) ocean waves
Which river is a tributary branch of the Hudson River?
(3) Mohawk River
What are the largest particles that a stream can transport when its velocity is 200 centimeters per second?
(4) cobbles
Which graph best shows how the infiltration rates of the three soil samples would compare?
What is the minimum rate of flow at which a stream of water can maintain the transportation of pebbles 1.0
centimeter in diameter?
(2) 100 cm/sec
Which activity demonstrates chemical weathering?
(4) dissolving of limestone by acid rain
Unsorted, angular, rough-surfaced cobbles and boulders are found at the base of a cliff. What most likely
transported these cobbles and boulders?
(3) gravity
The greatest amount of rainwater infiltration occurs on the side of a hill if the surface of a permeable
soil has
(4) large soil particles and a gentle slope
Which terms best describe the surface landscapes of A, B, C, and D?
(1) A—mountains, B—ridges and valleys, C—plateau, D—plain
The meandering streams shown in landscape region B usually form where there are
(2) gentle gradients
The sharp, angular flat-topped hills (mesas) in landscape region C were most likely produced by a climate
that was
(3) dry
Which statement best explains why the dates are more difficult to read on tombstone A than on tombstone B?
(1) Tombstone A is composed of minerals less resistant to weathering than tombstone B.
Which statement best describes sediments deposited by glaciers and rivers?
(3) Glacial deposits are unsorted, and river deposits are sorted.
Soil composed of which particle size usually has the greatest capillarity?
(1) silt
During a dry summer, the flow of most large New York State streams generally
(1) continues because some groundwater seeps into the streams
Which process most likely produced the present appearance of this feature?
(1) wind erosion
When the velocity of a stream suddenly decreases, the sediment being transported undergoes an increase in
(3) deposition
The geologic feature shown in the photograph was primarily deposited by which agent of erosion?
(4) running water
On the diagram of the area of sand dune development provided below, draw a sketch showing the general
side-view of a sand dune formed by a wind blowing in the direction indicated. Your sketch should clearly
show any variations in the slope of the sides of the dune.
Allow credit for a correct profile, showing both the windward and leeward sides of the same dune, and
showing the steepest gradient on the leeward side. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to,
this example:
Describe the effect that the slightly acidic infiltrating water had on the calcite cement holding the sandstone
together.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The calcite cement would be chemically weathered and removed by infiltrating water.
It would be dissolved.
It will bubble.
If Lucy wanted to give Linus correct information about pebbles, which statement would be most accurate?
(3) Any large rock that weathers could become a pebble.
Which column contains sediment with an average diameter closest to 0.1 centimeter?
(2) B
In which sediment will capillary action cause the water from the beaker to rise fastest in the column?
(4) large silt
In an experiment, the beakers of water were removed and replaced with empty beakers. The sediments were
allowed to dry. Then water was poured into each column to compare the permeability of the sediments. The
permeability rate of the medium sand sample was shown to be
(3) greater than the silt sample but less than the pebble sample
Two streams begin at the same elevation and have equal volumes. Which statement best explains why one
stream could be flowing faster than the other stream?
(2) The faster stream has a much steeper gradient.
Which particle would usually settle most rapidly?
(4) D
In general, the probability of flooding decreases when there is an increase in the amount of
(2) infiltration
In which general direction is the sand being moved along this shoreline by ocean (longshore) currents?
(2) southeast
a State the agent of erosion that deposited most of the sediment found at location A.
b State one observation recorded by the student that supports this conclusion.
a Allow credit for glaciers or ice.
b Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Unsorted sediments are different from the bedrock.
parallel scratches in the bedrock
Some samples of sediment collected from the streambed at location B are shown below.
Explain why these samples are smooth and have rounded shapes.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Rocks were abraded by tumbling.
Sediments rolled along the streambed.
Explain how ice in cracks on the cliff at location C may have helped cause weathering of the bedrock on the
face of the cliff.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
When liquid water freezes, it expands and breaks off pieces of rock.
frost action
Which factor has the greatest influence on the weathering rate of Earth’s surface bedrock?
(4) regional climate
During which geologic epoch did this glacier retreat from New York State?
(1) Pleistocene
The moraines pictured in the block diagram were deposited directly by the glacier. The sediments
within these moraines are most likely
(4) unsorted by size and unlayered
The shape of elongated hills labeled drumlins is most useful in determining the
(2) direction of glacial movement
Which graph best represents the general relationship between soil particle size and the permeability rate of
infiltrating rainwater?
Which list best identifies landscapes A, B, and C?
(1) A—mountain, B—plain, C—plateau
At which two locations in this stream is deposition normally dominant over erosion?
(3) C and E
Where this stream’s velocity decreases from 300 to 200 centimeters per second, which size sediment
will be deposited?
(1) cobbles
Which cross section along line XY best represents the shape of the stream bottom?
When rainfall occurs, the rainwater will most likely become surface runoff if the land surface is
(2) impermeable
Which statement best explains why the river delta is developing at this site?
(2) The rate of deposition is greater than the rate of erosion.
Observations and measurements of which three characteristics would be most useful in describing
landscapes?
(3) b, d, and e
If arrow length represents stream velocity, which diagram best shows the relative stream velocities in this
section of the stream?
Which map best represents the stream drainage pattern for this landscape?
How is this pattern of horizontal sorting produced?
(4) Bigger particles are generally deposited first.
The sedimentary rock, siltstone, will most likely form from sediments deposited in zone
(3) C
What characteristic of this large valley supports the inference that glacial ice formed the valley?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The valley has a U-shaped cross section.
The bottom of the valley is round.
Nonglaciated mountain valleys are V-shaped; this one is U-shaped.
Describe additional geologic evidence that might be found on the valley floor that would support the idea
that glacial ice formed this valley.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
piles of unsorted sediments deposited across the valley floor (moraines)
parallel scratches and/or grooves in the bedrock (striations)
Which geologic feature is caused primarily by chemical weathering?
(1) large caves in limestone bedrock
Where is the most deposition likely to occur?
(2) at the mouth of a river, where it enters an ocean
At which point is erosion greatest?
(2) B
What is the largest particle that can be kept in motion by a stream that has a velocity of 100 centimeters per
second?
(3) pebble
Which evidence suggests that ice created this landscape?
(1) U-shaped valleys
When small particles settle through water faster than large particles, the small particles are probably
(4) more dense
Which graph shows the effect of soil permeability on the amount of runoff in an area?
Which condition would cause surface runoff to increase in a particular location?
(1) covering a dirt road with pavement
The occurrence of parallel scratches on bedrock in a U-shaped valley indicates that the area has most likely
been eroded by
(1) a glacier
A state of dynamic equilibrium exists at location
(2) B
Which statement best describes the physical weathering shown by the diagram?
(1) Enlargement of the cracks occurs because water expands when it freezes.
Which stream-drainage pattern most likely developed on the surface of a newly formed volcanic mountain?
The sedimentary rock layers are being weathered and eroded at different rates primarily because the rock
layers
(3) have different compositions
A stream with a water velocity of 150 centimeters per second decreases to a velocity of 100 centimeters per
second. Which sediment size will most likely be deposited?
(1) pebbles
What is the probable relationship between erosion and deposition at points A and B after the earthquake?
(2) There is more erosion at point A and more deposition at point B.
Which set of conditions would produce the most runoff of precipitation?
(4) steep slope and impermeable surface
Landscapes will undergo the most chemical weathering if the climate is
(4) warm and wet
Which agent of erosion is responsible for cutting most V-shaped valleys into bedrock?
(2) running water
Which difference between the sandstone, shale, and limestone layers caused the formation of the relatively
gently sloped section labeled “bench”?
(3) resistance to weathering
Which graph best represents the range of particle sizes that can be carried by a glacier?
The diagram below shows a stream flowing past points X and Y. If the velocity of the stream at point X is
100 centimeters per second, which statement best describes the sediments being transported past these
points?
(3) Some pebbles being transported at point Y are bigger than those being transported at point X.
a Briefly explain why deposition of sediment usually occurs where a stream enters a lake.
b Name the type of sediment most likely represented by letter X.
a Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The stream velocity decreases.
The still water of the lake slows the stream current.
b Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
silt
clay