PrepTest 151, Section 1, Question 26
According to the generally accepted theory of plate(459 more words not shown)
According to the information in(14 more words not shown)
- Aregions where the(16 more words not shown)
- Bregions where resistance(7 more words not shown)
- Cregions where subduction(4 more words not shown)
- Dregions where there(6 more words not shown)
- Eregions where plates(7 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
The opening says most earthquakes occur in hot zones with high levels of subduction. But don't stop there: other regions have high subduction and few earthquakes. The rest of the explanation supplies the distinguishing feature. Shallow descent leaves a larger contact area, so the plates can grind against each other. Steep descent reduces that contact. We should therefore look for the shallow-angle pattern.
Working the answers
- A
Descending sharply means descending steeply. That reduces contact between the plates and helps explain quiet zones. It is the opposite of the pattern we're looking for.
- B
Resistance from the mantle isn't the same as friction between the plates. Strong mantle resistance forces the descending plate downward at a steep angle, reducing contact with the other plate. So greater mantle resistance doesn't give us the prediction of more earthquake-producing friction; it can lead to less.
- CCorrect
Shallow descent allows a substantially greater area of contact (paragraph 2) between the plates. Think of the sandpaper analogy: the plates remain pressed against each other and offer considerable resistance. This is the mechanism associated with greater earthquake activity.
- D
The amount of subduction alone doesn't identify the most earthquake-prone regions. Quiet zones can also have intense subduction. We need the distinction the scientists introduce, not just a larger amount of the original process.
- E
Same-direction motion is associated with the steep descent and reduced friction of quiet zones. The contrasting shallow-angle pattern occurs when the plates move toward each other.
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