ConcepTest: Earthquake Location and Magnitude
This material was originally created for
Starting Point:Introductory Geology and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Question:
Two active faults are present at different sites along the west coast of North America. The rate of plate motion adjacent to location X is 2 cm/year. The rate of plate motion adjacent to location Y is 5 cm/year. A characteristic earthquake at location X produces 2 meters (200 cm) of offset (displacement). A characteristic earthquake at location Y produces 2.5 meters (250 cm) of offset.
Predict which location would experience the more frequent earthquakes?
a. Xb. Y
c. Same at each location.
Predict which location would experience earthquakes with the greater magnitude?
a. Xb. Y
c. Same at each location.
Student Responses:
No data yet. The correct responses are B and B.
If you would like to help acquire more Before and After statistics for this example, please contact the authors (see link at top of page).
References and Notes:
The use of ConcepTests and Peer Instruction is discussed in detail on the ConcepTest page.
McConnell, D.A., Steer, D.N. and Owens, K.A., 2003, Assessment and Active Learning Strategies for Introductory Geology Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, 51(2), 205-216.
McConnell, D.A., Steer et al., 2006, Using Conceptests to Assess and Improve Student Conceptual Understanding in Introductory Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, (54(1), 61-68.