which one happens when during coal formation after plants die and fall to the bottom of a swamp?
1. Sediment and rock pile on top.
2. Heat and pressure build up.
3. Carbon-rich coal is formed.
4. Overall plant growth declines.
2. Heat and pressure build up.
The correct sequence of events during coal formation after plants die and fall to the bottom of a swamp is as follows:
1. Overall plant growth declines.
2. Sediment and rock pile on top.
3. Heat and pressure build up.
4. Carbon-rich coal is formed.
The correct order of events during coal formation after plants die and fall to the bottom of a swamp is as follows:
1. Sediment and rock pile on top: After plants die and accumulate at the bottom of a swamp, layers of sediment and rock gradually pile on top of them over a long period of time. This process is known as sedimentation.
2. Heat and pressure build up: As more layers of sediment and rock accumulate, the weight of the overlying layers increases, creating immense pressure on the buried plant remains. Additionally, as the layers pile up, the temperature also increases due to the Earth's natural heat. The combination of heat and pressure transforms the plant material over millions of years.
3. Carbon-rich coal is formed: Under the conditions of high heat and pressure, the organic material from the decaying plants undergoes a process called coalification. This process involves the removal of oxygen and hydrogen from the plant remains, resulting in the concentration of carbon. Over time, this carbon-rich material transforms into coal. The quality and type of coal formed can vary depending on the specific conditions present during its formation.
4. Overall plant growth declines: While the formation of coal occurs, it is generally a slow process that takes millions of years. Hence, it would not significantly impact present-day plant growth in the immediate surroundings. However, over geological timescales, if the process of plant accumulation and coal formation continues, it will lead to a reduction in plant material available for growth. This decline in overall plant growth occurs gradually over long periods.