Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

What geological process involves the joining of separate terranes along a major fault zone?

1. Tectonic collision

2. Wilson cycle

3. Continental drift

4. Orogeny

The correct answer is: Wilson cycle

The geological process that involves the joining of separate terranes along a major fault zone is best described by the Wilson cycle. This cycle refers to the process of continental break-up and subsequent reassembly over geological time. It encompasses the stages of rifting, ocean formation, and eventually the convergence of these oceanic and continental fragments back into a single landmass, often involving significant tectonic activity. Within the Wilson cycle, terranes—distinct pieces of the Earth's crust with unique geological histories—can move independently and interact along major fault lines. When these terranes collide, they can merge due to the tectonic processes that occur at these zones, demonstrating the dynamic nature of the Earth's lithosphere. This interaction can lead to the formation of mountain ranges or other geological features as a result of this collision. In contrast, tectonic collision refers more generally to the collision of larger plates or landmasses. Continental drift involves the gradual movement of continents over geological time but doesn’t specifically reference terranes joining along fault zones. Orogeny refers to the process of mountain building, typically resulting from tectonic collision and not exclusively the joining of terranes along a fault. Thus, the Wilson cycle accurately captures the holistic process of terrane interaction and alignment along fault zones