The Age of Earth Unit Test

9 of 129 of 12 Items

Question
Which is a result of Earth’s magnetic poles reversing over time?(1 point)
Responses

distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles
distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles

volcanoes occurring at tectonic plate boundaries
volcanoes occurring at tectonic plate boundaries

high amounts of iron found in ocean rocks
high amounts of iron found in ocean rocks

magma rising to the ocean floor at mid-ocean ridges

distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles.

The correct answer is: distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles.

To determine the correct answer to this question, we need to understand what happens when Earth's magnetic poles reverse over time. The process of the magnetic pole reversal occurs when the North and South magnetic poles switch places. This phenomenon has happened several times throughout Earth's history.

One of the results of Earth's magnetic poles reversing is the creation of distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles. These bands, known as magnetic anomalies, are formed as the magnetic minerals align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field at the time the rocks were formed. By studying these magnetic anomalies in rocks, scientists can determine the age and rate of Earth's magnetic pole reversals.

Volcanoes occurring at tectonic plate boundaries are not directly related to the reversal of Earth's magnetic poles. Volcanoes are primarily formed due to the movement and interactions of tectonic plates, which are large pieces of the Earth's crust.

High amounts of iron found in ocean rocks is also not a direct result of magnetic pole reversal. Iron can be present in ocean rocks due to various geological processes, such as weathering and sedimentation.

Similarly, magma rising to the ocean floor at mid-ocean ridges is a geological phenomenon related to plate tectonics and seafloor spreading, rather than magnetic pole reversal.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

- Distinct bands in rocks that contain magnetic particles