[From Big Bang to Blue Marble] Why does the geothermal gradient vary at different depths inside the Earth?

 [Minerals] When minerals cool slowly, they tend to form larger, better-developed crystals. We use the terms “euhedral,” “subhedral,” and “anhedral” to describe different levels of crystal development. Below is a cartoon rendering of the edge of an amethyst geode. Drag the labels to the correct part of the image to show where each of the different types of crystals appear to have formed.

 [Minerals] Let us look at silicates in a little more detail. Depending on a silicate mineral’s composition, the Si-O tetrahedra that make up the mineral will arrange themselves in different patterns. Drag the silicate framework name to the correct schematic on the image provided.

[From Big Bang to Blue Marble] Which of the following best explains why terrestrial planets formed closer to the Sun, while gas giants formed farther away?

[Tornadoes, Thunderstorms & Hurricanes] The map below shows the number of tornadoes per year (per 26,000 square km, for a 27-year period). Order the cities listed below based on the likelihood of their experiencing a tornado over the course of a year. Start with the least likely.

[From Big Bang to Blue Marble] Which of the following statements accurately describe processes or outcomes related to the condensation theory and Earth’s differentiation? (Select all that apply.)

[From Big Bang to Blue Marble] Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the difference between contact and field forces?

[From Big Bang to Blue Marble] A geologist discovers a solid material with an unordered atomic arrangement that formed from rapid cooling of molten rock. Which material classification is most accurate?

[Tornadoes, Thunderstorms & Hurricanes] Thunderstorms have long fascinated humans. The sensory stimulation of light and sound causes people to feel a range of emotions from exhilaration to fear. In this Exploration we will explore thunderstorms, how they form, and what can trigger the most violent of localized storms: the tornado. Thunderstorms require several “ingredients” to form. Which of the following environmental conditions will help lead to thunderstorm formation?

[Tornadoes, Thunderstorms & Hurricanes] Supercell thunderstorms can give rise to tornadoes. The image below shows an annotated radar image of a supercell. Identify the main downdraft and updraft locations as well as the likely location of tornado formation.