8
practice examMultiple Choice

Practice Exam

Question 8 • Earth and Space Science

Assume that Krakatoa is relocated to a tectonic setting where two continental plates collide instead of one subducting beneath another. Which volcanic outcome is most likely?

Answer
A
Explosive eruptions increase because the crust becomes thinner.
B
Magma production is suppressed because there is no mechanism to induce melting.
C
Frequent eruptions occur as water flux increases into the mantle.
D
Lava flows increase as decompression melting occurs beneath the crust.

Explanation

At Krakatoa’s current setting, one plate subducts beneath another, carrying water into the mantle and helping it melt to produce magma. In a continental-continental collision, neither plate typically sinks far enough to supply that water, so the main subduction-related mechanism for melting is absent. Therefore, magma production—and likely volcanic activity—is suppressed; choice B is correct.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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