Most geologic processes like erosion, sedimentation, uplift, and plate motion ________.
A)take place gradually but given the vastness of geologic time add up to big effects
B)occur quickly in fits and starts, but mostly nothing is happening
C)take place during cataclysmic floods and violent upheavals that transform Earth
D)take place gradually but don't add up to much change in the long run

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Geologic processes generally take place slowly over long periods of time, but given the vastness of geologic timescales, these gradual processes can add up to significant changes over time. For example, erosion may only wear away a small amount of rock each year, but over millions of years, it can result in the formation of canyons and other large-scale landforms. Uplift and plate motion also occur gradually over time and can lead to the formation of mountains and other topographic features. Cataclysmic floods and violent upheavals are rare events in geologic history and do not represent the typical pace of geologic processes.

Most Geologic Processes Like Erosion, Sedimentation, Uplift, and Plate Motion