San Diego Physical Geography Quiz
Coastal terraces, hills, bays (10 questions).
San Diego Physical Geography Quiz: Quick Study Notes
San Diego, California, boasts a diverse and dynamic physical geography shaped by its coastal proximity, active tectonic forces, and varied topography. From its distinctive marine terraces overlooking the Pacific to the rolling hills and expansive bays, the region offers a fascinating study in geomorphology. This quiz and study guide explore these key physical features, providing insights into how land, sea, and geological activity define San Diego’s unique landscape.
Key Geographical Features
Key Takeaways
- San Diego’s coastal landscape is defined by marine terraces, formed by tectonic uplift and fluctuating ancient sea levels.
- The region’s inland hills are primarily composed of uplifted and eroded marine sedimentary rocks.
- The Rose Canyon Fault system runs through the greater San Diego area, influencing its topography and seismic activity.
- San Diego Bay is a natural, deep-water estuary, extensively protected from the open ocean by the Point Loma peninsula.
- Mission Bay, while a popular recreational area, is an example of significant human alteration of a natural estuarine system.
- The Peninsular Ranges to the east contribute to the region’s overall hilly and mountainous terrain, leading to steep canyons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are coastal terraces in San Diego?
Coastal terraces in San Diego are flattened, step-like landforms along the coastline. They are remnants of ancient sea floors uplifted by tectonic activity during periods of higher sea level, creating distinct levels above the current ocean.
How were San Diego’s hills formed?
San Diego’s hills were primarily formed by the uplift and subsequent erosion of marine sedimentary rocks (sandstone, shale, mudstone) deposited over millions of years. Tectonic forces, especially those associated with faults like the Rose Canyon Fault, have played a significant role in their formation and shaping.
What type of bay is San Diego Bay?
San Diego Bay is a natural deep-water harbor that functions as an estuary. It is a semi-enclosed coastal body of water where freshwater from rivers mixes with saline ocean water, supporting diverse ecosystems. Its shape is largely determined by geological processes and the protective Point Loma peninsula.
Is San Diego seismically active?
Yes, San Diego is located in a seismically active region. The most prominent local fault is the Rose Canyon Fault Zone, which runs directly through the urban area and extends offshore. While significant earthquakes are less frequent than on the San Andreas Fault, smaller tremors and the potential for larger events are a recognized geological feature.
What is the significance of Point Loma?
Point Loma is a significant peninsula that forms the western boundary of San Diego Bay. Geologically, it is an uplifted block of sedimentary rock. Its primary significance is its role in protecting San Diego Bay from the open ocean’s waves and currents, creating a calm, natural harbor crucial for both ecological diversity and human activities like shipping and recreation.
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