Surface Processes and Natural Disasters: Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to surface processes, natural disasters, and geological principles in preparation for the exam.

What is the definition of stress in geology?

Stress is the force applied per unit area within materials.

What are the three types of stress?

The three types of stress are compressional, tensional, and shear.

How does elastic deformation differ from brittle and ductile deformation?

Elastic deformation is reversible, while brittle deformation results in fractures and ductile deformation leads to a permanent change in shape without breaking.

What is an anticline?

An anticline is a type of fold that arches upward, with the oldest layers at its core.

What is the difference between a syncline and an anticline?

A syncline is a fold that descends into a trough, while an anticline arches upwards.

Define a normal fault.

A normal fault occurs when the hanging wall moves downward in relation to the footwall.

What distinguishes a reverse fault from a normal fault?

A reverse fault occurs when the hanging wall moves upward relative to the footwall.

What is an epicenter in relation to earthquakes?

The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus or origin of an earthquake.

How do P waves differ from S waves?

P waves are compressional waves that can travel through solids and liquids, while S waves are shear waves that can only travel through solids.

What is liquefaction in the context of earthquakes?

Liquefaction is a process during an earthquake where saturated soil temporarily loses its strength and behaves like a liquid.

Define bathymetry.

Bathymetry is the study of underwater depth of lake or ocean floors.

What is the role of water in mass movement?

Water adds weight to materials, decreases friction, and can lead to instability in slopes during mass movement.

What is the angle of repose?

The angle of repose is the steepest angle at which a sloped surface formed of a particular material is stable.

What is the hydrologic cycle?

The hydrologic cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

What defines a drainage basin?

A drainage basin is an area of land where precipitation collects and drains off into a common outlet, such as a river.

What is the difference between runoff and infiltration?

Runoff is the water that flows over the ground surface, while infiltration is the process through which water enters the soil.

Define an oxbow lake.

An oxbow lake is a crescent-shaped lake formed when a river meanders and the bend is cut off from the main river.