Lithosphere Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the lithosphere, minerals, energy sources, and environmental impact, as outlined in the lecture notes.

What does the lithosphere consist of?

The lithosphere consists of the Earth's crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.

What are the four main characteristics used to classify minerals?

Color, Transparency, Hardness, and Streak.

What is the Mohs hardness scale used for?

The Mohs hardness scale is used to rank the hardness of minerals.

What are the three types of rocks?

Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic.

What is one way minerals are formed?

Minerals can be formed from the crystallization of magma.

What is the primary element in water (H2O)?

Hydrogen.

Which mineral is the hardest according to the Mohs scale?

Diamond.

What are fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels are energy resources such as coal, oil, and gas formed from decayed organic matter.

What are the advantages of coal as an energy resource?

Coal is cheap, and the infrastructure for its use already exists.

What disadvantage is associated with nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy creates radioactive waste that cannot be easily disposed of.

How does geothermal energy generate power?

Geothermal energy uses heat from the Earth's interior for power.

What is a disadvantage of geothermal energy?

Geothermal energy can only be harnessed in certain geographic regions.

What is the main component of the lithosphere?

The lithosphere is primarily composed of rocks and minerals.

What is 'hydrosphere'?

The hydrosphere includes all of Earth's water, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers.

What do tectonic plates float on?

Tectonic plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.

What is the difference between the inner core and outer core of the Earth?

The inner core is solid, while the outer core is liquid.

What role do insects play in the biosphere?

Insects help with pollination and decomposition within ecosystems.

What are the main gases that make up the Earth's atmosphere?

Nitrogen (78%) and Oxygen (21%) are the main gases in Earth's atmosphere.

What is the significance of photosynthesis in the biosphere?

Photosynthesis allows plants to convert sunlight into energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct.

Which mineral is commonly used in lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium.

What is magma?

Magma is molten rock beneath the Earth's surface.

What are ore minerals?

Ore minerals contain valuable metals that can be extracted economically.

Define 'igneous rock'.

Igneous rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

What are the main types of minerals found in Quebec?

Gold, silver, copper, and iron are major minerals found in Quebec.

What are the layers of the atmosphere?

The atmosphere consists of the Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, and Thermosphere.

What does the term 'biosphere' refer to?

The biosphere refers to all living organisms and their interactions with the environment.

What process does oil extraction involve?

Oil extraction involves drilling into porous rock to access trapped oil.

What is an advantage of using nuclear power?

Nuclear power produces a large amount of energy with very small amounts of fuel.

What types of disasters can occur due to tectonic plate movement?

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can occur due to tectonic plate movement.

How does the lithosphere interact with the hydrosphere?

The lithosphere interacts with the hydrosphere through the processes of erosion and sedimentation.

What is the composition of air at sea level?

Air at sea level is primarily composed of nitrogen and oxygen.

What are sedimentary rocks formed from?

Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments.

What is a renewable energy source mentioned in the notes?

Geothermal energy is considered a renewable energy source.

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

The theory of plate tectonics describes how Earth's lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move on the asthenosphere.

What are some effects of pollution on the atmosphere?

Pollution can lead to air quality issues and contribute to climate change.

What role does gravity play in the atmosphere?

Gravity holds the atmosphere in place around the Earth.

What does 'mining' refer to in the context of minerals?

Mining is the process of extracting valuable minerals from the Earth.

What is the main challenge with fossil fuel usage?

Fossil fuel usage leads to the release of carbon dioxide and can impact climate change.

Define 'metamorphic rock'.

Metamorphic rock is formed from the transformation of existing rock due to heat and pressure.

What is 'ore'?

Ore is a type of rock that contains one or more valuable minerals.

What is the purpose of mining in Quebec?

Mining in Quebec aims to extract valuable minerals like gold and copper.

What is the economic significance of minerals?

Minerals are crucial for various industries and provide essential resources.

What is the function of control rods in a nuclear power plant?

Control rods are used to manage the rate of the nuclear reaction.

What are hydrocarbons?

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon, found in fossil fuels.

How do humans impact the lithosphere?

Humans impact the lithosphere through mining, agriculture, and urban development.

What is the importance of soil in ecosystems?

Soil supports plant growth and is essential for nutrient cycling.

What is a disadvantage of fossil fuel energy?

Fossil fuel energy contributes to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

What are the benefits of using coal as an energy source?

Coal is readily available and inexpensive, with existing infrastructure for use.

What is geothermal energy's temperature range for effective use?

Geothermal energy can utilize heat ranging from 250°C to 500°C underground.

What is one method of extracting uranium for nuclear power?

Uranium can be extracted through mining and milling processes.

What is unique about the inner core of the Earth?

The inner core is solid due to immense pressure despite high temperatures.

What are the ecological roles of marine life?

Marine life contributes to ecosystem balance, oxygen production, and food chains.

What minerals are found in the Abitibi-Temiscamingue area?

Gold, copper, and nickel are found in the Abitibi-Temiscamingue area.