The letters following each Review Question refer to the corresponding Learning Objective from the Chapter Opener. During intervals of the Paleozoic, large areas of continents were submerged by shallow seas. Using Google Earth, tour North America from space. Do any present-day regions within North America consist of continental crust that was submerged by seawater? What about regions offshore? (Hint: Look at the region just east of Florida.) (E)

Short Answer

Expert verified
Exploring North America through Google Earth reveals regions with submerged continental crust, both onshore and offshore. Areas such as canyons, plateaus, and underwater geological features like continental shelves and submarine canyons indicate the presence of submerged continental crust. The region east of Florida, known as the Florida Platform, is a submerged portion of the North American Plate and consists of shallow submerged limestone formations, further supporting the presence of previously submerged continental crust.

Step by step solution

01

Access Google Earth by either downloading the application on your computer or visiting the website (https://www.google.com/earth/). #Step 2: Locate North America#

Use the search function or zoom out and navigate to North America on Google Earth. Familiarize yourself with the continent and its various regions. #Step 3: Identify Potential Submerged Continental Crust Onshore#
02

Look for onshore regions within North America that may contain continental crust submerged by seawater. This may include areas with noticeable rocks, canyons, or plateaus that may have experienced sea level changes in the past. Take note of these regions for further research. #Step 4: Identify Potential Submerged Continental Crust Offshore#

Now, examine the offshore regions of North America to identify any continental crust that was submerged by seawater. Look for underwater features such as continental shelves, submarine canyons, and other similar geological features indicating the presence of submerged continental crust. Observe the ocean floor in these areas and record your observations. #Step 5: Investigate the Region East of Florida#
03

As the hint suggests, take a closer look at the area just east of Florida. This is referring to the Florida Platform, which is a submerged portion of the North American Plate. The Florida Platform extends eastward into the Atlantic Ocean and is characterized by shallow submerged limestone formations, indicating the presence of previously submerged continental crust. #Step 6: Conclude Findings#

Based on your Google Earth exploration and research, conclude whether present-day regions within North America consist of continental crust that was submerged by seawater. Don't forget to mention any evidence supporting your conclusion, such as geological features and submerged continental crust identified onshore and offshore, including the Florida Platform.

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