Which of the following statements describes black smokers?

Master Plate Tectonics Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, including hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam efficiently!

The statement that black smokers form along mid-ocean ridges is accurate because black smokers are a type of hydrothermal vent found on the ocean floor, specifically at divergent plate boundaries where tectonic plates are moving apart. These vents release superheated water rich in minerals and chemicals, which can precipitate out and create black, smoky plumes – hence the name "black smoker." The high temperature and pressure in these underwater environments lead to unique ecosystems that rely on chemosynthesis, rather than photosynthesis, indicating the adaptability of life in extreme conditions.

In contrast, the other statements do not correctly describe black smokers. They are not located only on land, they do not emit smoke from forest fires, nor are they a type of sedimentary rock. Instead, black smokers are geological features directly related to the activity of tectonic processes in the oceanic crust.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy