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Analyse the data shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 5
Analyse the data shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10. Figure 9 on the inset, shows data related to seismic activity and vertical motion near Sour Creek. A resurgent dom... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Figure 9 suggests that there might be some correlation between the number of earthquakes and the vertical deformation in the caldera. However, this is by no means strong.
Answer
The data shows a significant peak in the number of earthquakes around 1985 that appears to correlate with the peak of vertical deformation recorded in that period (upward movement of around 30 cm). Similarly, around 2006 to 2011, there was another substantial vertical deformation of up to 40 cm. This suggests a link between seismic activity and vertical ground movement.
Step 2
Figure 10 illustrates the spatial relationship between volcanic activity and earthquake occurrences.
Answer
The map highlights areas of significant ground deformation, such as the resurgent domes (SC and ML) and the alignment of earthquake occurrences. Notably, there seems to be clustering of earthquakes near the caldera, which may indicate areas of heightened volcanic activity.
Step 3
The analysis also considers the nature of clustering and deformation patterns.
Answer
The connection between Figure 9 and Figure 10 suggests that areas with the highest vertical movement could coincide with clusters of seismic events. This evidence illustrates how geophysical processes interact in the Yellowstone caldera, hinting at ongoing volcanic activity associated with the movement of magma beneath the surface.