Problem 1
Describe an environment within Earth where you might expect rocks to experience ductile deformation. Suggest a scenario in which brittle rather than ductile deformation might occur.
Problem 2
Which of these rocks, granite or mica schist, is more likely to fold or flow rather than fracture when subjected to differential stress? Explain.
Problem 5
The Ural Mountains exhibit a north-south orientation through Eurasia (see Figure 1.18). How does the theory of plate tectonics explain the existence of this mountain belt in the interior of an expansive landmass?
Problem 7
Briefly describe the major differences between the evolution of the Appalachian Mountains and the North American Cordillera.
Problem 8
Suppose a sliver of oceanic crust was discovered in the interior of a continent. Would this support or refute the theory of plate tectonics? Explain.
Problem 9
What processes (besides formation and melting of large ice sheets) could cause isostatic adjustments?
Problem 10
Mountains are long-lived features, but they do not retain their elevation forever. Describe or sketch a process other than weathering and erosion that eventually lowers a mountain range.
Problem 11
Ice has a density of roughly \(0.9 \mathrm{~g} / \mathrm{cm}^{3}\) and water has a density of about \(1.0 \mathrm{~g} / \mathrm{cm}^{3}\). Use that information to complete the following: a. Using the principle of isostasy, approximate how much of a 100 -meter-thick iceberg would be located above sea level. b. Assuming that this iceberg melts evenly, how much of it will be above sea level after half of its mass has melted? c. Do you think icebergs make good examples for the principle of isostasy? Explain. d. Compare the melting of an iceberg to the process of isostatic adjustment that occurs when a mountain erodes.
Problem 12
In your own words, describe the geologic evolution of a "typical" collisional mountain using the Appalachian Mountains as a guide.
