End Of Coastal 8th Grade Quiz

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Quizzes Created: 52 | Total Attempts: 15,595

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1/97 Questions

Coastal Habitats: What is the difference between scavengers and decomposers?
- When an organism dies, scavengers consume much of the organic debris, particularly animal debris. Decomposers are bacteria and fungi that complete the final step in the food web.
- When an organism dies, decomposers scavenge the remains, there is no difference between decomposers and scavengers.
- When an organism dies scavengers consisting of bacteria and fungi complete the process in the food web.
- Both are detrital. When an organism dies uneaten debris is broken down by wave action, wind, heat, forming detritus

About This Quiz

Are you ready for this "End of coastal 8th grade quiz?" A coastal area is a part where the land meets the ocean. The quiz here deals with the end of the coastal area, and the questions here are about coastal areas and beaches. We will be testing how well you understand this part and whether you can answer these questions or not. So, do you think you are up to this challenge? If yes, then try your best and score the best.

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2.

Why are the Outer Banks so far from the mainland coast of North Carolina?
- With sea level rise, the mainland coastal plain receded faster than the islands are migrated landward.
- The Outer Banks are floating seaward due to migration.
- The Outer Banks are returning to their original location further out on the continental shelf.
- Sound waters in the basin behind the Outer Banks are filling with sand causing the islands to roll seaward.
Correct Answer

A. With sea level rise, the mainland coastal plain receded faster than the islands are migrated landward.

Explanation

The correct answer is that with sea level rise, the mainland coastal plain receded faster than the islands migrated landward. This means that as the sea level rose, the mainland coastal plain moved further inland, while the islands of the Outer Banks did not move as quickly. As a result, the Outer Banks ended up being located far from the mainland coast of North Carolina.

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3.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #2
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Ocean beach

Explanation

The correct answer is "Ocean beach" because it is the only option that specifically refers to a barrier island habitat. Barrier islands are narrow strips of land that form parallel to the coastline and are separated from the mainland by bodies of water, such as oceans or sounds. The term "ocean beach" refers to the sandy shoreline that is directly exposed to the open ocean on a barrier island.

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4.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #3
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Dune

Explanation

The correct answer is "Dune". A dune is a type of barrier island habitat characterized by its sandy and elevated landscape. Dunes are formed by the deposition of sand by wind or water, and they provide important protection against coastal erosion and storm surges. Dunes are typically covered with specialized vegetation that is adapted to the harsh conditions, such as grasses and shrubs. They are an important habitat for various species of plants and animals, including specialized dune species that are adapted to the shifting sands and high salinity of the environment.

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5.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #4
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Maritime forest

Explanation

A maritime forest is a type of barrier island habitat that is characterized by the presence of tall trees, such as oak and pine, and dense vegetation. It is typically found on the inland side of the dune system and provides habitat for various wildlife species. The trees in the maritime forest help stabilize the sand dunes and provide protection from strong winds and salt spray. This habitat is important for coastal ecosystems as it helps to maintain biodiversity and provides valuable ecosystem services.

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6.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #5
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Salt marsh

Explanation

A salt marsh is a type of barrier island habitat that is characterized by the presence of halophytic (salt-tolerant) plants. It is a transitional zone between land and sea, typically found in coastal areas with low wave energy. Salt marshes are flooded by tidal waters and are influenced by the ebb and flow of the tides. They are important habitats for many species of plants and animals, providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds. Salt marshes also play a crucial role in coastal protection, acting as buffers against storm surges and erosion.

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7.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #7
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Tidal flat

Explanation

A tidal flat is a type of barrier island habitat that is characterized by a flat, marshy area that is exposed during low tide and submerged during high tide. It is typically covered in mud or sand and is home to a variety of plants and animals that are adapted to the changing tides. Tidal flats are important ecosystems as they provide habitat for many species and serve as a buffer zone between the land and the ocean.

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8.

Particle Porosity and Permeability. Choose the statement that best describes the porosity of each set of soil particles.
- Not porous, densely packed, uniform grain size
- Most porous, loosely packed large grain size
- Low porosity, mixed grain sizes
- Porous, mixed grain size
Correct Answer

A. Not porous, densely packed, uniform grain size

Explanation

The given correct answer describes the porosity of the set of soil particles as "not porous, densely packed, uniform grain size". This means that the soil particles are tightly packed together and do not have any empty spaces or pores between them. Additionally, the grain size of the particles is uniform, meaning that all the particles are of the same size.

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9.

What kind of sediments settle on the ocean beach?
- Silt
- Gravel
- Coarse sand
- Clay
Correct Answer

A. Coarse sand

Explanation

Coarse sand is the correct answer because it is a type of sediment that commonly settles on ocean beaches. Coarse sand particles are larger than silt and clay particles, but smaller than gravel. They are often found on beaches due to their ability to be transported by waves and currents. Coarse sand provides a suitable substrate for beach organisms and contributes to the formation of beach dunes.

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10.

Nitrogen is scarce on the dunes because:
- There is little or no decaying plant and animal material to enrich the dunes.
- There is too much Oxygen.
- There is too much Hydrogen and Oxygen.
- The organisms in a dune habitat consume more Nitrogen then they produce.
Correct Answer

A. There is little or no decaying plant and animal material to enrich the dunes.

Explanation

The reason why nitrogen is scarce on the dunes is because there is little or no decaying plant and animal material to enrich the dunes. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, and it is usually obtained from the decomposition of organic matter. However, in the dune habitat, there is a lack of decaying material, resulting in a limited supply of nitrogen. As a result, plants in the dunes may struggle to obtain enough nitrogen for their growth and development.

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11.

Why are dunes made of finer sand than the beaches?
- Waves deposit the fine sand on to the dune.
- Saltation carries only the finest of beach sand.
- Saltation mixes salt with sand making it more fine.
- Fine sand is more porous
Correct Answer

A. Saltation carries only the finest of beach sand.

Explanation

Saltation is a process where sand particles are lifted and transported by the wind in a bouncing motion. During saltation, only the finest particles of beach sand are carried, while the larger and heavier particles are not lifted as easily. This selective transportation leads to the accumulation of finer sand particles in dunes compared to the beaches where coarser particles are left behind. Therefore, the statement "Saltation carries only the finest of beach sand" explains why dunes are made of finer sand than the beaches.

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12.

Coastal Habitats: What is the original source of energy for the entire seashore community?
- The original source of energy is the sun.
- The original source of energy is the ocean.
- The original source of energy are the producers.
- The original source of energy is the moon and tides.
Correct Answer

A. The original source of energy is the sun.

Explanation

The sun is the original source of energy for the entire seashore community. Through the process of photosynthesis, producers such as plants and algae convert sunlight into chemical energy, which is then passed on to other organisms in the food chain. This energy is essential for the survival and functioning of the entire coastal ecosystem. The ocean, moon, and tides may have indirect effects on the seashore community, but they do not serve as the primary source of energy.

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13.

Identify the hard stabilization image the arrow points to and what occurs as a result of its presence:
- It is a seawall. As as result of its presence, wave energy is redirected which enhances the erosion of both the front and sides of the wall.
- It is a groin. As as result of its presence, wave energy is redirected which enhances the erosion of the front of the wall.
- It is a jetty. As as result of its presence, wave energy is redirected which enhances the erosion of the front of the wall.
- It is a breakwater.
- Littoral current.
Correct Answer

A. It is a seawall. As as result of its presence, wave energy is redirected which enhances the erosion of both the front and sides of the wall.

Explanation

The correct answer is a seawall. A seawall redirects wave energy, which leads to increased erosion of both the front and sides of the wall.

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14.

What does this diagram show?
- Barrier island migration.
- Barrier island rollover.
- Barrier island formation
- Barrier island shoreface erosion.
Correct Answer

A. Barrier island migration.

Explanation

The diagram shows the process of barrier island migration. Barrier islands are constantly shifting and moving due to natural processes such as waves, currents, and sediment movement. This diagram likely illustrates the movement of sand and sediment that causes the barrier island to migrate over time. It shows how the island is gradually shifting its position and changing its shape in response to coastal processes.

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15.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #1
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Ocean

Explanation

The correct answer is "Ocean" because the question asks to identify a barrier island habitat, and the ocean is a key component of a barrier island ecosystem. Barrier islands are narrow strips of land that form parallel to the mainland coast and are separated from it by a body of water, typically an ocean. The ocean plays a crucial role in shaping and sustaining the barrier island habitat by providing wave energy, sediment, and food sources for the various plants and animals that inhabit the area.

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16.

What does this image show about barrier islands?
- Rollover.
- Littoral drift.
- Longshore current.
- Saltation
Correct Answer

A. Rollover.

Explanation

The image likely shows a phenomenon known as rollover, which is a characteristic feature of barrier islands. Rollover refers to the process where sand dunes on the landward side of the island migrate and roll over the top of the island, eventually depositing sand on the seaward side. This process helps to maintain the stability and shape of the barrier island over time. The other options, such as littoral drift, longshore current, and saltation, do not specifically pertain to the image showing rollover.

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17.

What are the two ingredients in soil that are equal percentages? Use the diagram to help you respond to this question.
- Air & Water
- Organic matter and minerals
- Rocks and minerals
- Organic matter and water
Correct Answer

A. Air & Water

Explanation

The diagram is not provided, so it is difficult to generate an explanation for the correct answer. However, based on general knowledge, it is known that air and water are both important components of soil. Air provides oxygen for the roots of plants and allows for gas exchange, while water is essential for plant growth and nutrient uptake. It is possible that the diagram would have shown the presence of air and water in soil, supporting the answer choice.

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18.

Which terms best describe the classroom substrate sample:Loam/Peat/Humus
- Spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy
- Small grained, light weight
- Smooth, slippery, soft, not sticky
- Gritty, grainy and coarse
- Sticky, muddy, tiny grained
Correct Answer

A. Spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy

Explanation

The terms "spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy" best describe the classroom substrate sample because they suggest a texture that is soft and springy, similar to a sponge. The term "earthy" implies that it has a natural, soil-like quality, while "twiggy" suggests the presence of small twigs or plant material. These terms collectively paint a picture of a substrate that is soft, porous, and organic in nature.

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19.

Which terms best describe the classroom substrate sample:Coarse beach sand
- Gritty, grainy and coarse
- Smooth, slippery, soft, not sticky
- Small grained, light weight
- Spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy
- Sticky, muddy, tiny grained
Correct Answer

A. Gritty, grainy and coarse

Explanation

The terms "gritty, grainy, and coarse" best describe the classroom substrate sample because it is made up of coarse beach sand, which typically has a rough texture and contains larger grains.

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20.

Which organism causes "red tide" scientific name: pfiesteria piscicida?
- Dinoflagellates
- Diatoms
- Gastropods
- Pelecypods
Correct Answer

A. Dinoflagellates

Explanation

Dinoflagellates are the organisms that cause "red tide" and the scientific name for the specific organism mentioned in the question is pfiesteria piscicida. Red tide is a phenomenon where there is a rapid growth of these dinoflagellates, leading to the discoloration of water and the release of toxins that can be harmful to marine life and humans. Diatoms, gastropods, and pelecypods are not responsible for causing red tide.

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21.

What is the effect of salt spray on back dune trees and shrubs?
- Salt spray from wind kills back the tips of the tree and shrub branches causing them to look sheard and grow stunted and twisted.
- Salt spray from wind nourishes the trees and shrubs causing their leaves to grow long and wide.
- Salt spray from wind prevents trees and shrubs from growing on the back dune.
- Dune plants: are evergreen plants with thin, needle like leaves. Salt spray from wind protects the trees and shrubs with a layer of salt covering it that can tolerate wind, water and salt.
Correct Answer

A. Salt spray from wind kills back the tips of the tree and shrub branches causing them to look sheard and grow stunted and twisted.

Explanation

Salt spray from wind kills back the tips of the tree and shrub branches causing them to look sheared and grow stunted and twisted. This is because the salt in the spray can dehydrate the plants, leading to damage and hindered growth. The salt can also interfere with the plants' ability to absorb water and nutrients, further impacting their health. The physical force of the wind carrying the salt spray can also cause physical damage to the branches, resulting in the sheared appearance.

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22.

What is surface creep?
- Surface creep occurs when saltating grains of sand strike heavier grains larger than one millimeter in diameter causing the heavier grains a slight forward movement along the surface.
- Surface creep occurs when saltating grains of sand strike finer grains smaller than one millimeter in diameter causing the finer grains a slight forward movement along the surface.
- Surface creep occurs when saltating grains of sand strike heavier grains larger than one millimeter in diameter causing the finer grains a slight forward movement along the surface.
- Surface creep occurs when saltating grains of sand strike heavier grains larger than one millimeter in diameter causing the heavier grains to suspend in the air from their movement along the surface.
Correct Answer

A. Surface creep occurs when saltating grains of sand strike heavier grains larger than one millimeter in diameter causing the heavier grains a slight forward movement along the surface.
23.

What is projected to occur in the year 2100? North Carolina has been identified as one of the three states with the highest vulnerability to sea level rise. North Carolina has 5900 sq. km of land below 1 meter in elevation, over 300 miles of beaches and more than 4,600 miles of shoreline along our sounds, coastal rivers and wetlands. According to "The Beaches are Moving", By 2100, a 1 ft of sea level rise on North Carolina's gently sloping coastline equals approximately how many feet of shoreline retreat?
- 1 ft of sea level rise equals 2000 feet of shoreline retreat.
- 1 ft of sea level rise equals 6 feet of shoreline retreat.
- 1 ft of sea level rise equals 10,000 feet of shoreline retreat.
- 1 ft of sea level rise equals 4.6 feet of shoreline retreat.
Correct Answer

A. 1 ft of sea level rise equals 2000 feet of shoreline retreat.
24.

What does the presence of a maritime forest indicate about a barrier island?
- That the island is wide because a maritime forest is found in the middle of the widest part of an island.
- That barrier islands are long and thin.
- That a dune is not found on the sound side of an island.
- That the island hasn't much shade from the sun.
Correct Answer

A. That the island is wide because a maritime forest is found in the middle of the widest part of an island.

Explanation

The presence of a maritime forest indicates that the island is wide because a maritime forest is typically found in the middle of the widest part of an island. This suggests that the island has enough space and resources to support the growth of a dense forest, indicating its width.

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25.

Which terms best describe the classroom substrate sample:Dune Sand
- Small grained, light weight
- Smooth, slippery, soft, not sticky
- Gritty, grainy and coarse
- Sticky, muddy, tiny grained
- Spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy
Correct Answer

A. Small grained, light weight

Explanation

The given answer "Small grained, light weight" best describes the classroom substrate sample of dune sand. This is because dune sand is typically composed of small grains and is known for being light in weight.

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26.

Why do marshes have that characteristically rotten egg odor?
- Decomposition uses much oxygen while releasing hydrogen sulfide. The reduced oxygen level combined with the release of hydrogen sulfide gives the marsh a rotten egg odor.
- Decomposition uses much carbon dioxide while releasing hydrogen sulfide. The reduced carbon dioxide level combined with the release of hydrogen sulfide gives the marsh a rotten egg odor.
- Decomposition uses much hydrogen while releasing carbon dioxide. The reduced hydrogen level combined with the release of carbon dioxide gives the marsh a rotten egg odor.
- Decomposition uses much hydrogen while releasing sulfur. The reduced hydrogen level combined with the release of sulfur gives the marsh a rotten egg odor.
Correct Answer

A. Decomposition uses much oxygen while releasing hydrogen sulfide. The reduced oxygen level combined with the release of hydrogen sulfide gives the marsh a rotten egg odor.

Explanation

The marshes have a characteristically rotten egg odor because decomposition in the marshes uses up a lot of oxygen and releases hydrogen sulfide. This combination of reduced oxygen levels and the release of hydrogen sulfide creates the foul smell.

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27.

Identify the event shown in the image.
- Birth of an inlet
- Nor'easter wind tide
- Formation of a tidal delta
- Spring tide
Correct Answer

A. Birth of an inlet

Explanation

The event shown in the image is the "Birth of an inlet." This can be inferred from the visual cues in the image, such as the formation of a narrow waterway or channel, which indicates the creation of an inlet. The surrounding land appears to be eroded or changed, further supporting the idea of a new inlet being formed.

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28.

How deep/thick are Barrier Islands?
- 30 - 60 feet
- 10 - 20 feet
- 20 - 40 feet
- 40 - 70 feet
Correct Answer

A. 30 - 60 feet

Explanation

Barrier Islands are typically formed by the accumulation of sand and sediment along the coast. They are relatively narrow and elongated landforms that run parallel to the mainland. The depth or thickness of Barrier Islands can vary, but on average, they are around 30 - 60 feet deep or thick. This depth allows them to provide a protective barrier against coastal erosion and storm surges while also providing habitat for various plant and animal species.

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29.

What does this arrow identify?
- Longshore current.
- Tidal current.
- Ebb tidal delta.
- Flood tidal delta.
- Littoral current.
Correct Answer

A. Longshore current.

Explanation

The arrow in the question identifies a longshore current. A longshore current is a current that flows parallel to the shoreline, caused by the oblique approach of waves to the beach. It moves sediment along the coast and can cause erosion or deposition of sand and other materials. The other options, such as tidal current, ebb tidal delta, flood tidal delta, and littoral current, are not specifically related to the flow of water along the shoreline.

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30.

IDENTIFY: The two major currents that affect North Carolina's climate.
- Laborador/Virginia and the Gulf Stream currents
- Gulf of Mexico and Laborador/Virginia currents
- Canadian and Gulf of Mexico currents
- Coast of Greenland and Gulf Stream currents
- Between the swash zone (shoreface where waves break) and the dune
Correct Answer

A. Laborador/Virginia and the Gulf Stream currents

Explanation

The correct answer is Laborador/Virginia and the Gulf Stream currents. These two major currents have a significant influence on North Carolina's climate. The Laborador/Virginia current, also known as the Labrador Current, is a cold ocean current that flows southward along the eastern coast of Canada and brings colder water to the region. The Gulf Stream, on the other hand, is a warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows along the eastern coast of the United States. The warm waters of the Gulf Stream contribute to the mild climate of North Carolina.

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31.

Why are estuaries considered brackish?
- Estuary waters are a mixture of tidewater and longshore current.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of groundwater and ocean water.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of groundwater and littoral drift.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of fresh and salt water.
Correct Answer

A. Estuary waters are a mixture of fresh and salt water.

Explanation

Estuaries are considered brackish because they are a mixture of fresh and salt water. This occurs because rivers and streams flow into estuaries, bringing with them freshwater, while at the same time, the tides from the ocean bring in salt water. The combination of these two sources of water creates a brackish environment, with a varying salinity level that is lower than that of the open ocean. This unique mixture of fresh and salt water creates a diverse and productive ecosystem in estuaries, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.

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32.

Coastal Habitats: What are the three basic components of a food web?
- Three basic components of a food web are producers, consumers and decomposers.
- Three basic components of a food web are producers, consumers, scavengers and decomposers.
- Three basic components of a food web are producers, bacteria and fungi.
- Three basic components of a food web are autotrophs, heterotrophs and heliotrophs.
Correct Answer

A. Three basic components of a food web are producers, consumers and decomposers.
33.

Coastal Habitats: What is a unit of life?
- A unit of life is an ecological community with plant and animal components acting together as an interdependent group.
- A unit of life is an ecological community that looks at nature as complete.
- A unit of life is an ecological community is 15-25 ppt. in an estuary, 35 ppt. in the ocean.
Correct Answer

A. A unit of life is an ecological community with plant and animal components acting together as an interdependent group.
34.

What is saltation and under what condition does it occur?
- How much salt is in the water
- The movement of sand along the shoreline
- The affect of salt spray on barrier island plants
- Saltation is the movement of sand by 10 mph or greater winds that creates dune.
Correct Answer

A. Saltation is the movement of sand by 10 mph or greater winds that creates dune.

Explanation

Saltation is the correct answer because it accurately defines the term and provides the condition under which it occurs. Saltation refers to the movement of sand, specifically, along the shoreline. It occurs when there are winds of 10 mph or greater, which create dunes.

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35.

What are the three basic requirements for dune formation to occur?
- For dune formation to occur the following is required: a large supply of sand, wind speeds capable of moving sand, and an ideal location for sand to accumulate.
- For dune formation to occur the following is required: a large supply of sand, wind speeds capable of moving sand, and a shore face that extends from the near shoe sandbar to the berm.
- For dune formation to occur the following is required: a large supply of sand, wind speeds greater than 20 mph, and a shore face that extends from the near shoe sandbar to the berm.
- For dune formation to occur the following is required: a large supply of sand, wind speeds less than 10 mph, and a shore face that extends from the near shoe sandbar to the berm.
Correct Answer

A. For dune formation to occur the following is required: a large supply of sand, wind speeds capable of moving sand, and an ideal location for sand to accumulate.

Explanation

The correct answer explains that three basic requirements for dune formation are a large supply of sand, wind speeds capable of moving sand, and an ideal location for sand to accumulate. These three factors work together to create dunes. Without a large supply of sand, there would be nothing for the dunes to form from. Wind speeds are necessary to move the sand and shape it into dunes. Finally, an ideal location for sand to accumulate is needed for the sand to gather and form dunes.

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36.

Identify this structure:
- Groin
- Jetty
- Seawall
- Breakers
Correct Answer

A. Groin

Explanation

A groin is a structure built perpendicular to the shoreline in order to trap sand and prevent erosion. It is typically made of rocks or concrete and extends into the water. Groins are designed to interrupt the longshore current and trap sediment, which helps to build up and stabilize the beach. They are commonly used in coastal engineering to protect beaches, harbors, and other coastal structures from erosion caused by waves and currents.

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37.

Identify this barrier island habitat: #6
- Ocean
- Ocean beach
- Dune
- Salt marsh
- Tidal flat
- Maritime forest
- Sound
Correct Answer

A. Sound

Explanation

The correct answer is "Sound." A sound is a type of barrier island habitat that is characterized by a body of water, usually a narrow channel, that separates the barrier island from the mainland. Sounds are typically shallow and can support a variety of marine life. They provide important habitat for fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms.

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38.

Particle Porosity and Permeability. Choose the statement that best describes the porosity of each set of soil particles.
- Not porous, densely packed, uniform grain size
- Porous, void space, packed large grain size
- Low porosity, mixed grain sizes
- Porous, mixed grain size
Correct Answer

A. Porous, void space, packed large grain size

Explanation

The correct answer is "Porous, void space, packed large grain size." This answer describes soil particles that have a large grain size, allowing for void spaces or gaps between the particles. These void spaces create porosity, which refers to the amount of empty space within the soil. Despite being packed tightly, the large grain size allows for the presence of void spaces, making the soil porous.

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39.

Which terms best describe the classroom substrate sample: Clay
- Sticky, muddy, tiny grained
- Spongy, soft, earthy, twiggy
- Small grained, light weight
- Smooth, slippery, soft, not sticky
- Gritty, grainy and coarse
Correct Answer

A. Sticky, muddy, tiny grained

Explanation

The terms "sticky" and "muddy" indicate that the clay sample has a high moisture content and is likely to adhere to objects. The term "tiny grained" suggests that the clay particles are small in size. Therefore, the combination of these terms accurately describes the classroom substrate sample.

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40.

Identify the sediment grain size # 2
- Silt
- Coarse Sand
- Fine sand
- Clay
Correct Answer

A. Silt

Explanation

The correct answer is Silt. Silt is a sediment grain size that falls between the sizes of clay and sand. It has a smooth texture and is often found in riverbeds and floodplains. Silt particles are smaller than sand particles but larger than clay particles. They are typically between 0.002 and 0.05 millimeters in size. Silt is easily transported by water and can settle in calm areas, forming layers of fine sediment.

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41.

Identify the sediment grain size # 3
- Clay
- Coarse sand
- Fine sand
- Silt
Correct Answer

A. Clay

Explanation

Clay is the correct answer for sediment grain size #3. Clay is a type of sediment that has the smallest grain size among the options given. It is made up of very fine particles that are smaller than silt and sand. Clay particles are typically less than 0.002 mm in diameter and have a smooth, sticky texture when wet. Clay is often found in areas with low-energy environments, such as lakes and river floodplains, where the smaller particles can settle and accumulate over time.

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42.

Substrate is:
- Bottom material ocean organisms live in or on.
- Bottom material found in the ocean.
- Bottom material organisms live in or on.
- Subtidal nutrients
Correct Answer

A. Bottom material organisms live in or on.

Explanation

The correct answer is "Bottom material organisms live in or on." This answer accurately describes the term "substrate" as the material that serves as a habitat for ocean organisms, either by providing a surface for attachment or by being inhabited by the organisms. It implies that the substrate is not just a physical material but also a living environment for these organisms.

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1
43.

Match the location where the intertidal zone is found.
- Between the high and low tide lines
- Above the high tide line
- Below the high tide line
- Between the sand bar and the berm
- Between the swash zone (shoreface where waves break) and the dune
Correct Answer

A. Between the high and low tide lines

Explanation

The intertidal zone is the area between the high and low tide lines. This is the region of the shoreline that is covered and uncovered by the ocean's tides. It is characterized by the constant fluctuation of water levels and exposure to both air and water. Organisms in this zone have adapted to survive in both wet and dry conditions and are able to withstand the changing environment.

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44.

Phytoplankton are_______________________
- Free floating microscopic plants that are the basis of the marine food chain.
- Free floating microscopic animals that are the basis of the marine food chain.
- Free floating microscopic scavengers that support the marine food chain.
- Diatoms that cause red tide and are toxic to the marine food chain.
Correct Answer

A. Free floating microscopic plants that are the basis of the marine food chain.

Explanation

Phytoplankton are free floating microscopic plants that are the basis of the marine food chain. They are responsible for producing a large portion of the Earth's oxygen and are a primary food source for many marine organisms. These plants undergo photosynthesis, converting sunlight and nutrients into energy. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems and supporting the entire food web.

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45.

What is a mollusk?
- An organism with a hard shell that encases a soft muscle body
- An organism with a soft shell and a hard interior skeleton
- A bottom dwelling organism that breathes water and uses siphons to feed
- A bottom dwelling organism that uses a muscular foot to dig and capture its prey
Correct Answer

A. An organism with a hard shell that encases a soft muscle body

Explanation

A mollusk is an organism with a hard shell that encases a soft muscle body. This definition accurately describes mollusks, as they typically have a protective outer shell made of calcium carbonate or chitin. Inside the shell, they have a soft, muscular body that performs various functions such as movement, feeding, and reproduction. The shell provides protection and support for the soft body, helping the mollusk survive in its environment. Mollusks include various species such as snails, clams, squids, and octopuses.

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46.

Identify the sand movement in the diagram in the order of these numbers: #1 _______________, #2 ______________, #3 ______________
- #1 suspension, #2 saltation, #3 creep
- #1 saltation, #2 suspension, #3 creep
- #1 suspension, #2 saltation, #3 impact threshold
- #1 fluid threshold, #2 saltation, #3 impact threshold
Correct Answer

A. #1 suspension, #2 saltation, #3 creep

Explanation

The correct answer is #1 suspension, #2 saltation, #3 creep. In the diagram, the sand particles are first lifted and carried by the wind in a suspended state, which is known as suspension. Then, the sand particles are dropped back to the ground due to gravity, but they are lifted again by the wind in a hopping or bouncing motion, which is called saltation. Finally, the sand particles move along the ground surface by rolling or sliding, which is known as creep.

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47.

Water in the salt marsh has a wide range of salt content. Why would you suppose this is so?
- During high tide-incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During low tide areas of salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that when evaporated leave the salt behind creating salty substrate. Evaporation is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity making the sound less salty.
- During low tide-incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During low tide areas of salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that when evaporated leave the salt behind creating salty substrate. Transpiration is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity making the sound less salty.
- During high tide-incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During high tide areas of salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that when evaporated leave the salt behind creating salty substrate. Evaporation is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity making the sound less salty.
- During low tide-incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During high tide areas of salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that when evaporated leave the salt behind creating salty substrate. Evaporation is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity making the sound less salty.
Correct Answer

A. During high tide-incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During low tide areas of salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that when evaporated leave the salt behind creating salty substrate. Evaporation is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity making the sound less salty.

Explanation

During high tide, incoming tides replenish ocean level salinity. During low tide, areas of the salt marsh are exposed and may have pools of water that, when evaporated, leave the salt behind, creating a salty substrate. Evaporation is a factor in intertidal areas. Heavy rains alter the salinity, making the sound less salty. This explanation suggests that the wide range of salt content in the water of the salt marsh is due to the fluctuation of tides, evaporation, and rainfall, which all contribute to the varying levels of salt in the marsh.

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48.

Why are estuaries considered brackish?
- Estuary waters are a mixture of tidewater and longshore current.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of soundwater and ocean water.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of soundwater and littoral drift.
- Estuary waters are a mixture of fresh and salt water.
Correct Answer

A. Estuary waters are a mixture of fresh and salt water.

Explanation

Estuaries are considered brackish because they are a mixture of fresh and salt water. This occurs because rivers and streams flow into estuaries, bringing freshwater, while at the same time, the tides bring in saltwater from the ocean. The mixing of these two types of water creates a unique environment where the salinity is lower than that of the open ocean but higher than that of freshwater rivers. This brackish water is essential for the diverse array of species that inhabit estuaries, as it provides a suitable habitat for both freshwater and saltwater organisms.

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49.

Which island inlet shift expands and contracts ?
- Bogue Banks
- Topsail
- Oregon
- Bald Head
Correct Answer

A. Bogue Banks

Explanation

Bogue Banks is the correct answer because it is an island inlet located in North Carolina that experiences expansion and contraction. This is likely due to the changing tides and currents in the area, causing the inlet to widen and narrow over time.

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