GLG101: Introduction to Geology I (Physical)

Spring 2003

Professor Matt Fouch

Study Guide for Exam #3

In this first part of the course, we covered the Chapters 12-16, and Interludes D and E. The most important facts and concepts for you to know and understand are listed below. The exam will be in-class, closed everything, with multiple choice and true/false questions. You will not be allowed to wear hats or sunglasses (unless prescribed by a doctor). Please remember to bring your ASU ID and a Number 2 pencil on exam day.

Ø Fossils and Evolution (Interlude D)

• Know the different types of fossils and examples of each
• What is an index fossil?
• What is the phylogenetic tree?
• What is the principle of fossil succession?
• What factors may cause extinctions?

Ø Deep Time (Chapter 12)

• Know the difference between absolute and relative dates, and how they're determined.
• Know the basics of radioactivity as discussed in class
• Know each type of unconformities (each type)
• Understand how we correlate stratigraphic layers
• What is the law of superposition?
• Know the principles of original horizontality, cross-cutting relationships, inclusions, and baked contacts

Ø Biography of Earth (Chapter 13)

• How do we study the past?
• How do mountains form?
• Know how the total area of continents on Earth evolved over geologic time
• What are cratons?
• What is transgression and regression?
• Why do sea levels change over time?

Ø Energy Resources (Chapter 14)

§ What is the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources?

§ Name 3 different fossil fuels.

§ What is the largest use for coal? (electricity)

§ Know 6 potential alternate energy resources (nuclear, solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, wind).

§ What is porosity? Permeability? How do they relate to storage of fossil fuels?

Ø Mineral Resources (Chapter 15)

§ How do ore deposits form?

§ What are pegmatites?

§ What are disseminated deposits?

§ What type of rock carries diamonds to the surface?

Ø Hydrologic Cycle and Landscape Development (Interlude E)

§ Know the top 3 locations of water on Earth (oceans, glaciers and polar ice, groundwater)

§ Know what powers the hydrologic cycle (solar energy)

§ What is the difference between elevation and relief?

§ How do the shapes of valleys correspond to the volume and velocity of water that form them?

§ How does plate tectonics affect landform development?

Ø Mass Wasting (Chapter 16)

• Know the controlling force of mass wasting (gravity)
• Know the important factors in mass wasting (water saturation, angle of repose, vegetation, earthquakes)
• Review the types (fall, slide, flow) and rates of movement (e.g., creep compared to rock avalanche)
• Understand the different types of mass wasting and their causes (e.g., creep, slump, rock avalanche, mud flow, rock slide, debris flow, debris avalanche)
• Know the effects of deforestation on mass wasting
• Understand the difference in stability for rock layers parallel and perpendicular to slopes