The diagram below shows the distribution of past gold and mercury mines in the state of California. Mines are built in locations with large deposits of a particular resource.

Question

Image courtesy of USGS

As can be inferred from the diagram, gold and mercury are unequally deposited in California. What can be concluded based on this unequal distribution of resources?
A.
The same geologic processes must have occurred in all parts of California in the past.
B.
The location of natural resources in California cannot be predicted based on past geologic processes.
C.
Different geologic processes must have occurred in different parts of California in the past.
D.
California experienced very few geologic changes in the past.

Answer 1

Based on the unequal distribution of gold and mercury mines in California, the most appropriate conclusion is:

C. Different geologic processes must have occurred in different parts of California in the past.

This conclusion is supported by the fact that the varying locations and concentrations of natural resources are likely a result of distinct geological events and processes that affected different areas of the state.