1.
An opening in earth's crust through which molten rock, gases, and ash erupt and the landform around it is called a...
Correct Answer
B. Volcano
Explanation
A volcano is an opening in the earth's crust through which molten rock, gases, and ash erupt. It is a landform created by the accumulation of erupted material around the opening. Volcanoes can vary in size and shape and can be found on land or underwater. They are typically formed by the movement of tectonic plates or hotspots in the earth's mantle. When the pressure from the molten rock and gases becomes too great, it causes an eruption, releasing the material onto the surface.
2.
An increase in _____ can cause rock in the asthenosphere to form magma.
Correct Answer
Water
Temperature
water
temperature
temprature
Explanation
An increase in water and temperature can cause rock in the asthenosphere to form magma. Water acts as a catalyst, lowering the melting point of the rock and facilitating the formation of magma. Temperature also plays a crucial role as it provides the necessary energy for the rock to undergo melting and transform into magma. The combination of increased water content and higher temperatures creates the ideal conditions for magma formation in the asthenosphere.
3.
Name one of the three places where a volcano can form.
Correct Answer
Hot spot
Divergent boundary
Subduction boundary
Explanation
Volcanoes can form in three different places: hot spots, divergent boundaries, and subduction boundaries. Hot spots are areas where magma rises from deep within the Earth's mantle, creating volcanic activity. Divergent boundaries occur when two tectonic plates move apart, allowing magma to rise and form volcanoes. Subduction boundaries happen when one tectonic plate is forced beneath another, causing the melting of rock and the formation of volcanoes. These three locations provide the necessary conditions for volcanic activity to occur.
4.
The Hawaiian islands are volcanic because...
Correct Answer
D. They formed over an oceanic hot spot
Explanation
The Hawaiian islands are volcanic because they formed over an oceanic hot spot. This means that there is a stationary area of intense heat beneath the Earth's crust, which causes the rock to melt and form magma. As the magma rises to the surface, it creates volcanic activity, leading to the formation of the Hawaiian islands. This process is different from subduction boundaries, where two tectonic plates collide and one is forced beneath the other. The moon's gravitational pull does not directly cause volcanic activity in the Hawaiian islands.
5.
Viscosity is a substance's resistance to _____.
Correct Answer
flow
Flow
Explanation
Viscosity refers to a substance's resistance to flow. It measures how easily a substance can flow or move. A high viscosity means that the substance is thick and flows slowly, while a low viscosity indicates that the substance is thin and flows quickly. Therefore, the correct answer is "flow, Flow" as both words are synonymous and accurately describe the concept of viscosity.
6.
As magma becomes more explosive, its _____ content increases.
Correct Answer
D. Silica
Explanation
As magma becomes more explosive, its silica content increases. Silica is a major component of magma and is responsible for its viscosity. When silica content increases, the magma becomes more viscous, which means it is thicker and less able to flow easily. This increased viscosity leads to the buildup of pressure within the magma chamber, making the eruption more explosive. Therefore, as the silica content increases, the explosiveness of the magma also increases.
7.
From least explosive to most explosive, what are the types of magma?
Correct Answer
A. Basaltic, andesitic, rhyolitic
Explanation
The types of magma are ranked from least explosive to most explosive based on their composition and viscosity. Basaltic magma has the lowest silica content and is the least explosive. Andesitic magma has a higher silica content and is more explosive than basaltic magma. Rhyolitic magma has the highest silica content and is the most explosive type of magma. Therefore, the correct order from least explosive to most explosive is basaltic, andesitic, rhyolitic.
8.
Magma which has reached Earth's surface is called ____.
Correct Answer
lava
Lava
Explanation
Magma which has reached Earth's surface is called lava. Lava is the molten rock that flows out of a volcano or fissure during an eruption. It is the result of the cooling and solidification of magma upon exposure to the Earth's atmosphere. Lava can vary in composition and viscosity, leading to different types of volcanic eruptions and the formation of various landforms such as lava flows, lava domes, and volcanic cones.
9.
Pahoehoe is a type of hardened lava flow. Its surface is...
Correct Answer
B. Smooth and rope-like
Explanation
Pahoehoe is a type of hardened lava flow that has a smooth and rope-like surface. This is because pahoehoe lava is characterized by its low viscosity, which allows it to flow smoothly and form rope-like structures as it cools and solidifies. This type of lava flow is in contrast to the rough and jagged surface of a'a lava, which has a higher viscosity and forms sharp, angular fragments as it solidifies.
10.
Aa is a type of hardened lava flow. Its surface is...
Correct Answer
D. Rough and jagged
Explanation
Aa is a type of hardened lava flow that has a rough and jagged surface. This type of lava flow is characterized by its slow movement and the formation of rough, angular blocks as it cools and solidifies. The surface of aa lava is typically uneven and sharp, making it difficult to traverse.
11.
Underwater lava flows harden into unique shapes called _____ lava.
Correct Answer
pillow
Pillow
Explanation
Underwater lava flows cool and solidify rapidly due to the surrounding water pressure, resulting in the formation of distinctive pillow-shaped structures. These pillow lavas are characterized by their rounded, bulbous appearance and are commonly found in underwater volcanic environments. The term "pillow" or "Pillow" is used to describe this specific type of lava morphology.
12.
Solid material ejected from a volcano is called...
Correct Answer
A. Pyroclastic material
Explanation
Pyroclastic material is the correct answer because it refers to solid materials that are ejected from a volcano during an eruption. This material can include ash, rock fragments, and volcanic gases. It is called "pyroclastic" because it is formed from the Greek words "pyro" meaning fire and "clastic" meaning broken. This material is often hot and can flow down the sides of a volcano, causing destruction in its path. Therefore, pyroclastic material accurately describes the solid material ejected from a volcano.
13.
Pyroclastic materials can form a dense, superheated cloud that travels downhill at an amazing speed. These clouds are called...
Correct Answer
Pyroclastic flows
pyroclastic flows
Pyroclastic flow
pyroclastic flow
Explanation
Pyroclastic materials, such as ash, rocks, and gases, can create a dense, superheated cloud that moves rapidly downhill. This phenomenon is known as pyroclastic flows. The term "pyroclastic flows" refers to multiple instances of this event, while "pyroclastic flow" refers to a single occurrence. Both variations of the term are correct and are used interchangeably to describe this dangerous natural phenomenon.
14.
A shield volcano forms from hardened ____.
Correct Answer
C. Lava flows
Explanation
A shield volcano forms from hardened lava flows. Shield volcanoes are characterized by their broad, gently sloping sides and are formed by the accumulation of successive layers of fluid lava. As the lava flows out of the volcano, it cools and solidifies, creating a hardened layer. Over time, these layers build up, forming the characteristic shield shape of the volcano.
15.
A cinder cone forms from hardened _____.
Correct Answer
A. Lava fragments
Explanation
A cinder cone forms from hardened lava fragments. When lava is ejected from a volcano during an eruption, it can break into small pieces as it cools and solidifies in the air. These fragmented lava pieces, known as cinders, accumulate around the vent and gradually build up to form a cone-shaped volcano called a cinder cone. This process occurs when the lava is highly viscous and gas-rich, causing it to explode into small fragments when it reaches the surface. Over time, the accumulation of these lava fragments creates the characteristic shape of a cinder cone volcano.
16.
A composite volcano forms from...
Correct Answer
D. Debris ejected from explosive eruptions
Explanation
A composite volcano forms from debris ejected from explosive eruptions. When a volcano erupts explosively, it releases a mixture of ash, rocks, and other materials into the air. These materials are then ejected from the volcano and accumulate around the vent, forming layers of debris. Over time, these layers build up and create a cone-shaped composite volcano. This type of volcano is characterized by its steep sides and alternating layers of hardened ash, rocks, and lava.
17.
A fast moving mud flow is called a...
Correct Answer
A. Lahar
Explanation
A fast moving mud flow is called a lahar. Lahars are volcanic mudflows that occur when volcanic ash and debris mix with water, usually from heavy rainfall or the melting of snow and ice. The mixture of water and volcanic material creates a fast-moving flow that can travel down the slopes of a volcano, through valleys, and even reach coastal areas. Lahars can be extremely destructive, carrying large boulders, trees, and other debris, and causing significant damage to infrastructure and communities in their path.
18.
Name one of the 2 volcanoes we talked about which has erupted or will erupt violently. (Hint: Both are found in the United States)
Correct Answer
Yellowstone
mount saint helens
yellowstone
mount saint hellens
Mount saint hellens
Explanation
Both Yellowstone and Mount Saint Helens are examples of volcanoes that have erupted violently. Yellowstone is a supervolcano located in Wyoming, United States, and it has had three major eruptions in the past. The most recent eruption occurred about 640,000 years ago and had a volcanic explosivity index (VEI) of 8, making it one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Earth's history. Mount Saint Helens, on the other hand, is a stratovolcano located in Washington state. It had a major eruption in 1980, which resulted in the loss of several lives and caused significant destruction in the surrounding area.
19.
A crater-shaped basin caused by an emptied magma chamber collapsing in on itself is known as a...
Correct Answer
B. Caldera
Explanation
A crater-shaped basin caused by an emptied magma chamber collapsing in on itself is known as a caldera. Calderas are formed when a volcanic eruption releases a large amount of magma, causing the magma chamber to empty and the ground above it to collapse. This results in a large, bowl-shaped depression with steep walls. Calderas can be found in various volcanic regions around the world and are often characterized by their size and distinct shape.
20.
One very large caldera is found in...
Correct Answer
C. Yellowstone National Park, Western United States
Explanation
Yellowstone National Park in the Western United States is the correct answer because it is known for having a very large caldera. A caldera is a large volcanic crater formed by the collapse of a volcano after a volcanic eruption. Yellowstone National Park is home to the Yellowstone Caldera, which is one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world. It is an iconic feature of the park and attracts millions of visitors each year.
21.
Basaltic lava which has poured and spread out from a fissure in the Earth's surface is called a...
Correct Answer
B. Lava plateau
Explanation
Basaltic lava that has poured and spread out from a fissure in the Earth's surface is called a lava plateau. A lava plateau is formed when the lava flows over a large area and cools down, creating a flat or gently sloping landscape. This type of lava is typically associated with volcanic activity and can cover extensive regions, such as the Deccan Plateau in India or the Columbia Plateau in the United States.
22.
A constellation is a ____.
Correct Answer
A. Group of stars in the night sky
Explanation
A constellation is a group of stars in the night sky. Constellations are patterns or configurations of stars that are named and recognized by astronomers. These patterns often represent mythological figures, animals, or objects. They serve as a way to navigate and locate celestial objects in the sky.
23.
According to Ptolemy's scale, which stars are the brightest?
Correct Answer
C. Stars with the lowest values
Explanation
According to Ptolemy's scale, stars with the lowest values are considered the brightest. This means that the stars with the highest values would be the dimmest. Ptolemy's scale is a magnitude scale, where the lower the magnitude value, the brighter the star appears in the sky. Therefore, the correct answer is stars with the lowest values.
24.
True or false: Constellations can only be seen through a telescope.
Correct Answer
False
false
f
F
Explanation
Constellations can be seen without the use of a telescope. Constellations are patterns formed by stars in the night sky, and they can be observed with the naked eye. Telescopes can enhance the view and allow for a closer look at individual stars within a constellation, but they are not necessary to see the overall pattern. Therefore, the statement that constellations can only be seen through a telescope is false.
25.
The apparent magnitude of a star is...
Correct Answer
C. Its brightness when viewed from Earth
Explanation
The apparent magnitude of a star refers to its brightness as observed from Earth. It is a measure of how bright the star appears to be when viewed from our planet. This magnitude is influenced by various factors such as the star's actual brightness, distance from Earth, and any intervening objects that may affect the amount of light reaching us. Therefore, the correct answer is "Its brightness when viewed from Earth."
26.
Why don't astronomers use miles or kilometers to measure deep space?
Correct Answer
B. The measurements are too small
Explanation
Astronomers don't use miles or kilometers to measure deep space because the measurements are too small. Deep space is vast, and distances between celestial objects are enormous. Miles or kilometers would not be practical units of measurement for such large distances. Instead, astronomers use units like light-years or parsecs, which are much more suitable for measuring the vastness of space.
27.
How far is one astronomical unit?
Correct Answer
D. 150,000,000 kilometers or 93,000,000 miles
Explanation
An astronomical unit is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, which is approximately 150 million kilometers or 93 million miles.
28.
What is a light year?
Correct Answer
B. The distance light travels in one year
Explanation
A light year is a unit of measurement used in astronomy to represent the distance that light travels in one year. It is a way to describe vast distances in space, as light can travel at a speed of about 300,000 kilometers per second. Therefore, a light year is an enormous distance, approximately equal to 9.46 trillion kilometers.
29.
What is parallax?
Correct Answer
A. A change in an objects direction due to a change in the observer's position
Explanation
Parallax refers to the change in an object's direction as observed from different positions. This phenomenon occurs because the position of the observer changes, causing the object to appear to shift its position. Parallax is commonly used in astronomy to measure the distances to nearby stars by observing their apparent shift in position when viewed from different points in Earth's orbit.
30.
How far is one parsec?
Correct Answer
C. 3.086 x 10 to the thirteenth km
Explanation
One parsec is a unit of distance used in astronomy, specifically to measure the distance between celestial objects. The correct answer, 3.086 x 10 to the thirteenth km, represents the approximate distance of one parsec in kilometers. This means that one parsec is equivalent to approximately 3.086 trillion kilometers.
31.
What are most stars made of?
Correct Answer
B. Hydrogen and Helium
Explanation
Stars are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. These two elements make up the vast majority of a star's mass. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and is the fuel that powers a star through nuclear fusion. Helium is produced as a byproduct of this fusion process. While stars may contain trace amounts of other elements, such as iron and oxygen, these elements are not the primary components of a star. Therefore, the correct answer is hydrogen and helium.
32.
The largest star known to astronomers is ____ times bigger than our sun.
Correct Answer
D. 2000
Explanation
The largest star known to astronomers is 2000 times bigger than our sun. This means that its size is 2000 times larger in terms of diameter, volume, or mass compared to our sun. This indicates that the largest star is an extremely massive and colossal celestial object, dwarfing the size of our sun by a factor of 2000.
33.
The hottest and coldest stars are ____ and ____, respectively.
Correct Answer
C. Blue and red
Explanation
The hottest stars are typically blue in color, while the coldest stars are generally red. This is because the color of a star is determined by its surface temperature. Blue stars have a higher surface temperature, indicating that they are hotter, while red stars have a lower surface temperature, indicating that they are colder. Therefore, the correct answer is blue and red.
34.
What is luminosity?
Correct Answer
A. The actual brightness of a star
Explanation
Luminosity refers to the actual brightness of a star, regardless of its distance from Earth. It is a measure of the total amount of energy emitted by the star per unit of time. This term is used to describe the intrinsic brightness of a star, allowing astronomers to compare the brightness of different stars accurately. Luminosity is an important parameter in understanding the characteristics and evolution of stars.
35.
The brightness of a star 10 parsecs away as viewed from Earth is called...
Correct Answer
B. Absolute magnitude
Explanation
Absolute magnitude is the correct answer because it refers to the intrinsic brightness of a star. It is a measure of how bright a star would appear if it were located at a standard distance of 10 parsecs from Earth. Apparent magnitude, on the other hand, is a measure of how bright a star appears from Earth, taking into account its distance. Luminosity, on the other hand, refers to the total amount of energy a star emits per unit of time.
36.
Cepheid variables are yellow supergiants whose cycle of brightness lasts ____ days.
Correct Answer
B. 1-50
Explanation
Cepheid variables are yellow supergiants that exhibit periodic changes in brightness. These changes occur over a specific time period known as the period of the Cepheid variable. The correct answer, 1-50 days, indicates that the cycle of brightness for Cepheid variables typically lasts between 1 and 50 days. This range suggests that Cepheid variables have relatively short periods compared to other types of variable stars.
37.
The absolute magnitude of a Cepheid variable is related to...
Correct Answer
A. The length of time between maximum brightness
Explanation
The absolute magnitude of a Cepheid variable is related to the length of time between maximum brightness. Cepheid variables are pulsating stars that have a regular pattern of varying brightness. The longer the period of time between maximum brightness, the higher the absolute magnitude of the star. This relationship allows astronomers to use Cepheid variables as standard candles to measure distances in the universe. By observing the period of brightness variation, astronomers can determine the absolute magnitude of the star and then compare it to the apparent magnitude to calculate its distance.
38.
What is the speed of light in kilometers per second?
Correct Answer
B. 300,000
Explanation
The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. This value is widely accepted and has been measured through various experiments and observations. It is a fundamental constant in physics and plays a crucial role in many scientific calculations and theories.
39.
How many stars are found in a binary star system?
Correct Answer
C. 2
Explanation
In a binary star system, there are two stars. This means that there are two stars present in such a system.
40.
Where do stars originate?
Correct Answer
D. Inside a cloud of dust and gas
Explanation
Stars originate inside a cloud of dust and gas. This cloud, known as a nebula, consists of various elements and molecules. Over time, gravity causes the cloud to collapse in on itself, creating a dense core. As the core continues to collapse, the pressure and temperature increase, leading to the ignition of nuclear fusion. This fusion process releases an enormous amount of energy, and a star is born. The dust and gas in the cloud provide the raw materials for the formation of the star, making it the correct answer.
41.
What is a main-sequence star?
Correct Answer
B. A star which is making hydrogen into helium
Explanation
A main-sequence star is a star that is in the longest and most stable phase of its life. During this phase, the star is fusing hydrogen atoms in its core to form helium, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process. This fusion process is what powers the star and allows it to shine. The majority of stars in the universe, including our sun, are main-sequence stars.
42.
How much bigger than the sun are giant stars?
Correct Answer
A. 10-100 x bigger
Explanation
Giant stars are 10-100 times bigger than the sun. This means that they have a significantly larger radius and volume compared to the sun. The size of a star is determined by its mass, and giant stars have much greater mass than the sun, causing them to expand and become larger. The range of 10-100 times bigger encompasses a wide range of sizes, indicating that giant stars can vary in their magnitude of size compared to the sun.
43.
How much bigger than the sun is a supergiant star?
Correct Answer
A. 100+ X bigger
Explanation
Supergiant stars are significantly larger than the sun, with some being more than 100 times bigger. This means that they have a much larger radius and volume compared to the sun. The exact size difference can vary, but it is safe to say that supergiant stars are much larger than the sun.
44.
What are white dwarfs?
Correct Answer
C. Old stars
Explanation
White dwarfs are old stars that have exhausted their nuclear fuel and have collapsed under their own gravity. They are the remnants of stars similar in size to our Sun, but with a much higher density. These stars have shed their outer layers and are left with a hot, dense core composed mostly of carbon and oxygen. White dwarfs are not newly formed or middle-aged stars, but rather represent the final stage of stellar evolution for stars like our Sun.
45.
What is a nebula?
Correct Answer
C. A cloud of dust and gas
Explanation
A nebula is a cloud of dust and gas. Nebulas are often found in space and are made up of various elements such as hydrogen, helium, and other molecules. These clouds can be observed through telescopes and are known for their beautiful and colorful appearance. They are also the birthplaces of stars, as the dust and gas within them can collapse under gravity and form new celestial bodies.
46.
What does a small star become when it dies?
Correct Answer
A. White dwarf
Explanation
When a small star dies, it becomes a white dwarf. A white dwarf is the remnant core of a star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel. It is extremely dense and hot, but relatively small in size. The outer layers of the star are expelled into space, leaving behind the dense core. The intense gravitational pressure causes the core to collapse and the electrons to be forced into the atomic nuclei, creating a degenerate electron gas. This process stops the collapse and the star stabilizes as a white dwarf, gradually cooling down over billions of years.
47.
What does a large star become when it dies?
Correct Answer
D. Black hole or Neutron star
Explanation
When a large star dies, it undergoes a catastrophic explosion called a supernova. This explosion releases an immense amount of energy and causes the outer layers of the star to be ejected into space, forming a nebula. The core of the star can collapse under its own gravity, resulting in either a black hole or a neutron star. A black hole is formed when the core collapses to a point of infinite density, while a neutron star is formed when the core collapses to a very dense ball of neutrons. Both black holes and neutron stars are the end stages of massive stars.
48.
A white dwarf is really...
Correct Answer
C. A star's leftover core
Explanation
A white dwarf is the remnant core of a star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel and undergone gravitational collapse. After a star exhausts its nuclear fuel, it sheds its outer layers, leaving behind a dense, hot core composed mainly of carbon and oxygen. This core is what we call a white dwarf. It is incredibly dense, with a mass comparable to that of the Sun but squeezed into a size similar to that of Earth. White dwarfs are incredibly hot and luminous, but they no longer undergo nuclear fusion and eventually cool down over billions of years.
49.
What is a planetary nebula?
Correct Answer
B. A cloud of dust and gas leftover from a small star exploding
Explanation
A planetary nebula is a cloud of dust and gas leftover from a small star exploding. When a star reaches the end of its life, it goes through a phase called a supernova, where it explodes and releases its outer layers into space. The remaining core of the star then heats up and emits ultraviolet radiation, causing the surrounding gas to glow and form a nebula. This nebula is called a planetary nebula because early astronomers thought it resembled the appearance of a planet when observed through a telescope.
50.
A supernova is...
Correct Answer
A. An exploding red supergiant
Explanation
A supernova is an exploding red supergiant. This occurs when a massive star reaches the end of its life and collapses under its own gravity, causing a massive explosion. Red supergiants are one of the stages in the life cycle of massive stars, and when they explode as supernovae, they release an enormous amount of energy and matter into space. This explosion is incredibly bright and can briefly outshine an entire galaxy. Supernovae play a crucial role in the formation of new stars and the dispersal of heavy elements into the universe.