1.
Which of the following is not an example of a scientific model?
Correct Answer
D. A data table from a plant-growth experiment
Explanation
A data table from a plant-growth experiment is not an example of a scientific model because it does not represent a simplified or conceptual representation of a scientific phenomenon or process. Instead, it is a tabular representation of collected data from an experiment, which is used to organize and analyze the results. Scientific models, on the other hand, are simplified representations that help scientists understand and explain complex phenomena or make predictions about them. Examples of scientific models include diagrams, physical replicas, computer simulations, and mathematical equations.
2.
Which of the following is the best example of biodiversity?
Correct Answer
D. There are over a million different species in the jungles of Africa.
Explanation
The best example of biodiversity is the presence of over a million different species in the jungles of Africa. Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of living organisms in a particular ecosystem. The presence of numerous species in the African jungles indicates a high level of biodiversity, as it showcases the wide range of different plants, animals, and microorganisms that coexist in that habitat. This diversity is crucial for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and ensuring its resilience to environmental changes.
3.
___ is the process of maintaining proper internal conditions such as water balance, blood sugar levels, and pH.
Correct Answer
A. Homeostasis
Explanation
Homeostasis is the process by which an organism maintains stable internal conditions, such as water balance, blood sugar levels, and pH. It involves various physiological mechanisms that work together to regulate and balance these internal conditions, ensuring that they remain within a narrow range suitable for the organism's survival and optimal functioning. Homeostasis is crucial for maintaining the overall health and well-being of an organism, as any significant deviation from the optimal internal conditions can disrupt normal physiological processes and lead to various health problems.
4.
Finch species in the Galapagos Islands have a wide variety of beak shapes. The theory of natural selection suggests that these differences arose because
Correct Answer
B. The birds on different islands have different food sources.
Explanation
The correct answer is that the birds on different islands have different food sources. This is because the theory of natural selection states that organisms with traits that are advantageous for their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. In the case of the finch species in the Galapagos Islands, the variations in their beak shapes are believed to have evolved in response to the availability of different types of food on each island. Finches with beak shapes that were better suited to accessing and consuming the available food sources would have had a higher chance of survival and passing on their genes to the next generation.
5.
A scientist wants to know how a certain fertilizer affects the growth of tomato plants growing in two different soils. What conclusion can be drawn from the graph shown here?
Correct Answer
C. The fertilizer has a greater effect in Soil 2
Explanation
The graph shows that the tomato plants in Soil 2 have a significantly higher growth rate compared to the plants in Soil 1 when the fertilizer is applied. This suggests that the fertilizer has a greater effect in Soil 2, as it leads to more growth in the tomato plants.
6.
Which of the following groups is most important for bringing energy into an ecosystem?
Correct Answer
B. Producers
Explanation
Producers are the most important group for bringing energy into an ecosystem. They are able to convert sunlight into food through the process of photosynthesis. This food, in the form of organic matter, is then consumed by other organisms in the ecosystem, such as consumers. Without producers, there would be no source of energy for the rest of the ecosystem, making them crucial for sustaining life within the ecosystem.
7.
What would most likely result if nitrogen-fixing bacteria in an area were destroyed?
Correct Answer
B. Vegetation in the area would grow at a slower rate.
Explanation
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria play a crucial role in converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. They form a symbiotic relationship with plants, providing them with the necessary nitrogen for growth. If these bacteria were destroyed, plants would not have access to sufficient nitrogen, resulting in slower growth. Without nitrogen, plants would struggle to produce proteins and other essential compounds needed for their development. Therefore, the most likely outcome would be that vegetation in the area would grow at a slower rate.
8.
What will most likely happen if the human population continues to grow at current rates?
Correct Answer
A. There will be fewer natural resources available for future generations.
Explanation
As the human population continues to grow at current rates, the demand for natural resources such as water, food, energy, and land will increase. This will lead to overexploitation and depletion of these resources, making them scarce for future generations. The increasing population will also put pressure on ecosystems and lead to habitat destruction, further reducing the availability of natural resources. Therefore, it is most likely that there will be fewer natural resources available for future generations if the human population continues to grow at current rates.
9.
Which of the following is the best example of a scientific model?
Correct Answer
A. A computer simulation of Earth's climate changes
Explanation
A computer simulation of Earth's climate changes is the best example of a scientific model because it allows scientists to study and understand complex climate systems. It is a representation of the Earth's climate system, based on scientific principles and data, that can be manipulated and experimented with to make predictions and test hypotheses. This model helps scientists to better understand climate patterns, predict future changes, and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change.
10.
What do viruses need to reproduce?
Correct Answer
B. Host organisms
Explanation
Viruses need host organisms to reproduce. Unlike other organisms, viruses cannot replicate on their own. They rely on host organisms to provide the necessary cellular machinery and resources for their reproduction. Once inside a host organism, the virus hijacks the host's cells and uses them to produce more viral particles. This process allows the virus to replicate and spread within the host organism, causing infection and disease. Therefore, host organisms are essential for the reproduction of viruses.