Exercises

Question 1.1

Illustrate the differences between a hypothesis, a theory, and a model with some examples drawn from this chapter.

Question 1.2

Give an example of how the model of Earth’s spherical shape developed by Eratosthenes can be experimentally tested.

Question 1.3

Give two reasons why Earth’s shape is not a perfect sphere.

Question 1.4

If you made a model of Earth that was 10 cm in radius, how high would Mount Everest rise above sea level?

Question 1.5

It is thought that a large meteorite impact 65 million years ago caused the extinction of half of Earth’s living species, including all the dinosaurs. Does this event disprove the principle of uniformitarianism? Explain your answer.

Question 1.6

How does the chemical composition of Earth’s crust differ from that of its mantle? From that of its core?

Question 1.7

Explain how Earth’s outer core can be liquid while the mantle is solid.

Question 1.8

How do the terms weather and climate differ? Express the relationship between climate and weather using examples from your experience.

Question 1.9

Earth’s mantle is solid, but it undergoes convection as part of the plate tectonic system. Explain why these statements are not contradictory.

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