First Five Chapters: Intro. to Geology, Plate Tectonics, Minerals, Igneous Activity, Volcanoes Essays (50 points total). 1. Explain thoroughly how it took 55 years (from 1915 until 1970) for the hypothesis of Continental Drift to develop into the theory of Plate Tectonics. READ THIS! – In other words, use the theory of Plate Tectonics to show how the Scientific Method was used to “flesh out” the hypothesis of Continental Drift put forth by Wegener, by adding new data provided by new technology and people until general buy-in was obtained in 1970, when the term “Plate Tectonics” was coined. (Chapter 1, especially 1.3, The Nature of Scientific Inquiry; and Chapter 2, especially 2.1 through 2.3, and 2.9, “Testing the Plate Tectonics Model”). Do not spend time discussing what came before 1915! Wegener did a great job of laying out the evidence he had available at the time. After your introductory paragraph, I do not expect to see the name “Wegener” again. Your answer should be no less than 500 words. Be sure to explain: (25 points) • WHO were the key players? • WHAT were the key observations and conclusions? • WHERE were the observations made? • WHEN were the key discoveries made? • HOW were these discoveries accomplished, including fields of study, equipment, etc.? 2. UseplatetectonictheorytoexplaintheoriginofMountSt.Helens(andbyextension,the Cascades and all Andean-type mountain ranges). Your answer should be no less than 500 words. (25 points) In your answer, include a discussion of: • the plate tectonic process involved • the origin of the magma and rocks • the composition of the magma and rocks • the type of eruptions that occur there • other geologic features associated with Andean-type mountains. For these questions, check the text and MasteringGeology Study Area (of course), and also study the links on the accompanying materials. It should go without saying that you should have successfully completed the Mastering Homework for the first five chapters. Important: know the meaning of the word PLAGIARISM – no plagiarism!
