Naep Geography Grade 8

Explanation
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. It has a diameter of about 86,881 miles, making it more than 11 times the size of Earth. Its massive size is due to its composition, primarily consisting of hydrogen and helium gases. Jupiter also has a strong gravitational pull, which has allowed it to gather a large number of moons, with at least 79 currently known. Its size and composition make Jupiter a distinct and dominant planet in our solar system.

Explanation
Venus is referred to as earth's twin because it is similar in size and composition to Earth. It is often called Earth's sister planet due to its similar mass, gravity, and rocky composition. Venus also has a similar distance from the Sun and a comparable atmosphere, although it is much denser and hotter than Earth's. Additionally, Venus is the closest planet to Earth in terms of size and proximity, making it the most similar to our own planet.

Explanation
Pluto is the farthest planet from the sun. Although it was reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006, it still holds the distinction of being the farthest known planet-like object in our solar system. Its highly elliptical orbit takes it as far as 49.3 astronomical units (AU) from the sun, which is about 4.67 billion miles or 7.5 billion kilometers. This distance makes Pluto the most distant planet from the sun compared to the other options listed.

Explanation
The correct answer is 365.25 days. This is because the earth takes approximately 365.25 days to complete one revolution around the sun. This extra quarter of a day accumulates over four years, resulting in a leap year with 366 days.

Explanation
An equinox is the name given to a day when there is an equal duration of daylight and darkness. This occurs twice a year, in the spring and autumn, when the sun is directly above the equator. During an equinox, the tilt of the Earth's axis is not inclined towards or away from the sun, resulting in nearly equal lengths of day and night.

Explanation
Meridian is the correct answer because it refers to the lines of longitude on the Earth's surface. These lines run from the North Pole to the South Pole and are used to measure distances east or west of the Prime Meridian, which is located in Greenwich, London. Meridians are essential for navigation and determining time zones around the world.

Explanation
The biosphere is the correct answer because it is the part of the Earth where life exists. It includes all living organisms and their interactions with the other spheres of the Earth, such as the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. The biosphere encompasses all ecosystems on land, in water, and in the air, making it the only part of the Earth that supports life.

Explanation
Granite is an igneous rock because it is formed by the solidification of molten magma or lava. It is composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. Granite typically has a coarse-grained texture and is known for its durability and strength. Shale, sandstone, and clay are sedimentary rocks, meaning they are formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediment over time.

Explanation
A flat topped mountain is known as a plateau. A plateau is a large elevated area of land that has a flat or gently sloping top. It is usually formed by the process of uplift and erosion. Plateaus are characterized by their flat or gently sloping terrain and are often found in areas with high elevation. They can be found all over the world and are important geographical features.

Explanation
Edaphic factors are the factors related to the soil that influence the growth and development of organisms. Soil type refers to the composition and texture of the soil, which can vary from sandy to clayey. Soil porosity refers to the amount of air and water spaces within the soil. Soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles and the formation of aggregates. Soil pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Among these options, soil type is not an edaphic factor as it does not directly affect the physical and chemical properties of the soil.