Question

What kind of map shows rock types making up Earth's surface? A) topographic C) geologic B) Robinson D) Mercator

Short answer

A geologic map shows rock types on Earth's surface.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Map Types

First, understand that there are different types of maps used for various purposes. A topographic map shows the elevation and terrain features. A Robinson map is a projection used for world maps, minimizing distortion. A Mercator map is also a projection used for navigation due to its straight meridians. Finally, a geologic map shows the distribution of different types of rocks at Earth's surface.

Identify the Correct Map Type

From our understanding in Step 1, a geologic map specifically focuses on the geological features of Earth's surface, such as rock types and their locations. Hence, it is the map used to depict the types of rocks that make up the Earth's surface.

Key concepts

rock types

Rock types are classifications of rocks based on their mineral composition and formation process. They are fundamental to understanding the Earth's geology, as they tell us about the history of the planet. There are three main types of rocks:

• Igneous rocks: These form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. Examples include granite and basalt.
• Sedimentary rocks: These are formed by the accumulation and cementation of mineral and organic particles. Common types are limestone and sandstone.
• Metamorphic rocks: These originate from the transformation of existing rock types through heat and pressure. Marble and slate are well-known examples.

Understanding these rock types helps geologists interpret the Earth's history, past climates, and potential resources. Geologic maps, which depict these rock types, are essential tools for exploring these aspects by showing where different rocks are exposed on the surface.

Earth's surface

The Earth's surface is the outermost layer of our planet, made up of various rock types and shaped by numerous geographic processes. It is not just a flat, static platform but a dynamic and evolving structure with multiple interacting components.

• The surface comprises vast landmasses known as continents, and extensive bodies of water like oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers.
• Landforms such as mountains, valleys, and plains illustrate the diverse topography influenced by geological processes like tectonic activity and erosion.
• Vegetation and human-made structures are also part of the Earth's surface, contributing to its complexity and diversity.

Scientists study the Earth's surface to understand climate patterns, find resources, and learn about the ecological systems supporting life. Geologic maps serve as a pivotal resource in this study, allowing us to see the distribution of different rock types across this intricate layer.

map types

Maps are crucial tools in geography and Earth sciences, each serving distinct purposes based on their design and content. Let's explore some common types of maps:

• Topographic maps: These depict the shape and elevation of terrain using contour lines, allowing users to understand the landscape's physical features, such as hills and valleys.
• Robinson maps: These are world maps that present the entire globe with minimal distortion, used primarily for education and thematic purposes.
• Mercator maps: Featuring straight meridians, these maps are designed for navigation, making them popular for maritime activities, though they can distort the size of land masses at high latitudes.
• Geologic maps: Focused on displaying the types of rocks exposed at the Earth's surface, these maps are indispensable for geologists. They show the age, composition, and distribution of rocks, helping in studies of geological formations and mineral resources.

Each map type is designed for a specific purpose, and choosing the right one depends on the information needed. For geological studies and understanding rock distribution, a geologic map is the go-to choice.