1.
The ______ are windless zones near the equator.
Correct Answer
A. Doldrums
Explanation
The correct answer is "Doldrums." The doldrums are windless zones near the equator. These areas are characterized by calm and light winds, which result from the convergence of trade winds from both hemispheres. The absence of strong winds in the doldrums makes it difficult for ships to navigate through this region.
2.
In the water cycle, evaporated water _____________.
Correct Answer
D. Condenses into clouds
Explanation
When water evaporates, it changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state and rises into the atmosphere. As it reaches higher altitudes, the water vapor cools down and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds. Therefore, the correct answer is that evaporated water condenses into clouds.
3.
__________ is the transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves
Correct Answer
C. Radiation
Explanation
Radiation is the transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves. This process does not require a medium to transfer the energy and can occur through empty space. It involves the emission of electromagnetic waves, such as light or heat, from a source and their subsequent absorption by another object. Radiation is responsible for various natural phenomena, such as the sun's heat reaching the Earth or the warmth felt when standing close to a fire. It is also used in various technologies, including radio communication and medical imaging.
4.
Electronically-charged particles are found primarily in the _________.
Correct Answer
C. Ionosphere
Explanation
Electronically-charged particles are found primarily in the ionosphere. The ionosphere is a region of the Earth's atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons. These charged particles are created by the ionization of neutral atoms and molecules due to solar radiation and cosmic rays. The ionosphere plays a crucial role in radio communications, as it reflects and refracts radio waves, allowing long-distance communication. It also influences the Earth's climate and weather patterns.
5.
The __ are responsible for the movement of much of the weather across the United States of America
Correct Answer
A. Prevailing Westerlies
Explanation
The Prevailing Westerlies are responsible for the movement of much of the weather across the United States of America. These are the prevailing winds that blow from west to east in the middle latitudes of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In the United States, the Prevailing Westerlies play a crucial role in determining the weather patterns, as they transport weather systems, such as storms and fronts, from west to east across the country. They are particularly influential in the mid-latitudes, where they interact with other air masses and contribute to the variability of weather conditions.
6.
The ________ merges into outerspace.
Correct Answer
D. Exosphere
Explanation
The exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere where the atmosphere merges into outer space. It is the highest layer of the atmosphere and extends from about 500 to 1,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface. In this layer, the few particles that are present are very spread out and the density of the atmosphere is extremely low. The exosphere is where satellites and other spacecraft orbit the Earth.
7.
Too much exposure to ____________ may cause skin cancer.
Correct Answer
C. Ultraviolet Radiation
Explanation
Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun and other sources. Prolonged or excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of skin cancer. This is why it is important to protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when the sun is strongest.
8.
Air in the _______ is warmed by heat from the Earth's surface
Correct Answer
A. Troposphere
Explanation
The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, extending from the surface up to about 10-15 kilometers. It is where weather occurs and where most of the Earth's atmospheric mass is located. The air in the troposphere is warmed by heat from the Earth's surface through a process called convection. As the sun's rays heat the Earth's surface, the surface then heats the air above it, causing the air to rise and creating weather patterns. Therefore, the correct answer is the troposphere.
9.
__________ is the transfer of heat by the flow of heated material.
Correct Answer
C. Convection
Explanation
Convection is the transfer of heat by the flow of heated material. In this process, the heated material, such as air or water, becomes less dense and rises, while the cooler material sinks. This creates a circular flow, allowing heat to be transferred from one place to another. Unlike conduction, which involves direct contact between objects, convection requires the movement of a fluid medium.
10.
The ___________ is caused by Earth's rotation.
Correct Answer
B. Coriolis Effect
Explanation
The Coriolis Effect is caused by Earth's rotation. As the Earth rotates, objects moving freely over its surface appear to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. This deflection is caused by the rotation of the Earth and is responsible for the curved path of moving objects, such as winds and ocean currents. The Coriolis Effect is an important factor in the formation and movement of weather systems, including the formation of the jet stream and the trade winds.
11.
Air above the _________ is heated more than at any other place on Earth.
Correct Answer
C. Equator
Explanation
The air above the Equator is heated more than at any other place on Earth because it receives direct sunlight and is located near the center of the Earth's rotational axis. The direct sunlight and the angle at which it hits the Equator result in higher temperatures, making it the hottest region on Earth.
12.
Chlorofluorocarbons destroy the ozone layer by__________.
Correct Answer
C. Destroying ozone molecules
Explanation
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are responsible for destroying the ozone layer by breaking down ozone molecules. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they rise to the stratosphere where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This process releases chlorine atoms, which then react with ozone molecules, breaking them apart. As a result, the ozone layer becomes thinner, allowing more harmful UV radiation from the sun to reach the Earth's surface. This can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment.
13.
Steady winds between the equator and 30 degrees north or south are known as ____________.
Correct Answer
D. Trade Winds
Explanation
Trade winds are steady winds that blow between the equator and 30 degrees north or south. These winds are caused by the Earth's rotation and the difference in temperature between the equator and the poles. They are called trade winds because they were historically used by sailors for trade routes. Trade winds are important for navigation and are known for their consistency and reliability.
14.
Air currents that blow near the north and south poles are the ____________.
Correct Answer
A. Polar Easterlies
Explanation
The correct answer is Polar Easterlies. Air currents that blow near the north and south poles are known as Polar Easterlies. These winds blow from the east towards the west and are caused by the temperature differences between the polar regions and the lower latitudes. They are typically cold and dry, and play an important role in the global circulation of the atmosphere.
15.
Reflection and absorption by the atmosphere prevent some _________ from reaching Earth's surface.
Correct Answer
B. Radiation
Explanation
The correct answer is radiation. Reflection and absorption by the atmosphere prevent some radiation from reaching Earth's surface. This is because the Earth's atmosphere acts as a shield, reflecting and absorbing certain types of radiation such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This is important as excessive exposure to radiation can be harmful to living organisms.
16.
Sea and land breezes happen because___________.
Correct Answer
B. The land heats and cools more quickly than the water
Explanation
Sea and land breezes happen because the land heats and cools more quickly than the water. During the day, the land heats up faster than the water, causing the air above the land to become warmer and rise. This creates a low-pressure area over the land. At the same time, the water remains relatively cooler, creating a high-pressure area over the sea. The air moves from the high-pressure area over the sea towards the low-pressure area over the land, creating a sea breeze. At night, the land cools down faster than the water, causing the air above the land to become cooler and denser. This creates a high-pressure area over the land and a low-pressure area over the sea, resulting in a land breeze.
17.
The distinct wind patterns on Earth's surface are created by ___________ and by the Coriolis Effect.
Correct Answer
A. Differences in heating
Explanation
The distinct wind patterns on Earth's surface are created by differences in heating and by the Coriolis Effect. These differences in heating occur due to variations in solar radiation received by different parts of the Earth's surface. As the sun's rays hit the Earth, they are absorbed differently by land and water, causing variations in temperature. This leads to the formation of areas of high and low pressure, which in turn generate winds. The Coriolis Effect, on the other hand, is caused by the rotation of the Earth and causes moving air to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere, further influencing wind patterns.
18.
Temperature in the thermosphere are __________.
Correct Answer
D. Very hot
Explanation
The temperature in the thermosphere is very hot. This is because the thermosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere, where it is exposed to intense solar radiation. The high energy from the sun's rays causes the molecules in the thermosphere to move at very high speeds, resulting in extremely high temperatures. Additionally, the thermosphere is also where the auroras occur, which are caused by the interaction of solar particles with the Earth's magnetic field, further contributing to the high temperatures in this region.
19.
_________ is the only substance that exists as solid, liquid and gas in Earth's Atmosphere.
Correct Answer
C. Water
Explanation
Water is the only substance that exists as a solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapor) in Earth's atmosphere. This is because of its unique properties such as a wide range of temperatures at which it can exist in each state and its ability to change states through the processes of evaporation and condensation. Water plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate system and is essential for sustaining life on our planet.
20.
Which layers have the same temperature trends
Correct Answer
B. Troposphere and Mesosphere
Explanation
The Troposphere and Mesosphere have the same temperature trends. The Troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, where temperature generally decreases with increasing altitude. The Mesosphere is the third layer, located above the Stratosphere, and temperature also decreases with increasing altitude in this layer. Therefore, both the Troposphere and Mesosphere exhibit a similar pattern of temperature decrease with height.
21.
Which statement is FALSE about the diagram
Correct Answer
B. Mesosphere increases in temperature because the ozone absorbs the Sun's energy
Explanation
The statement that is FALSE about the diagram is "Mesosphere increases in temperature because the ozone absorbs the Sun's energy." The mesosphere actually decreases in temperature with increasing altitude. The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere, not the mesosphere, and it absorbs the Sun's energy, which causes the stratosphere to increase in temperature.
22.
The transfer of heat causing differences in air density.
Correct Answer
B. Convection
Explanation
Convection is the correct answer because it refers to the transfer of heat through the movement of a fluid, such as air or water. In this case, the explanation suggests that the differences in air density caused by the transfer of heat are responsible for the process of convection.
23.
The transfer of energy from land and water to air by direct contact.
Correct Answer
A. Conduction
Explanation
Conduction is the transfer of energy from a higher temperature object to a lower temperature object through direct contact. In this process, the energy is transferred from the land and water to the air molecules in direct contact with them. This is because the land and water are typically at higher temperatures compared to the air. Therefore, conduction is the correct answer as it describes the transfer of energy from land and water to air through direct contact.
24.
The transfer of energy from the sun to Earth's surface.
Correct Answer
C. Radiation
Explanation
Radiation is the transfer of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles. In the context of the question, radiation refers to the process by which energy from the sun is transferred to Earth's surface. This energy travels through space in the form of electromagnetic waves, such as visible light and infrared radiation. When these waves reach Earth, they are absorbed by the surface, causing it to heat up. This process is responsible for the warming of the Earth's surface and is essential for supporting life on our planet.
25.
21% of the atmosphere
Correct Answer
D. Oxygen
Explanation
Oxygen makes up approximately 21% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is an essential component for supporting life as it is necessary for respiration. Oxygen is involved in various chemical reactions and is crucial for the survival of plants, animals, and other organisms. It is also responsible for the process of combustion and plays a vital role in the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
26.
Most common gas in air
Correct Answer
A. Nitrogen
Explanation
Nitrogen is the most common gas in air, constituting approximately 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is an essential component for life and is involved in various biological and chemical processes. Smog, water, oxygen, and ozone are also present in the air, but in smaller quantities compared to nitrogen. Therefore, nitrogen is the correct answer as it is the major constituent of air.
27.
Normally found in the upper stratosphere
Correct Answer
E. Ozone
Explanation
Ozone is normally found in the upper stratosphere. Ozone is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms and it forms a layer in the stratosphere that protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This layer is commonly known as the ozone layer.
28.
Caused when pollutants mix with oxygen and other chemicals in the presence of sunlight.
Correct Answer
B. Smog
Explanation
Smog is caused when pollutants mix with oxygen and other chemicals in the presence of sunlight. This chemical reaction leads to the formation of a thick fog-like layer of pollution in the atmosphere. Smog is typically made up of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter. The sunlight provides the energy needed for these pollutants to react and form smog. This explanation aligns with the given answer choice of Smog.
29.
The lowest layer of the atmosphere is the ____________; it contains clouds and smog.
Correct Answer
B. Troposphere
Explanation
The lowest layer of the atmosphere is called the troposphere. It is the layer closest to the Earth's surface and contains clouds and smog. The troposphere is where weather occurs and where most of the Earth's air mass is located. It extends from the Earth's surface up to about 10-15 kilometers in altitude.
30.
An oxygen form present in the ______________________ filters UV radiation from the sun
Correct Answer
B. Ozone Layer
Explanation
The ozone layer is a form of oxygen present in the atmosphere that filters UV radiation from the sun. It acts as a protective shield, preventing harmful UV rays from reaching the Earth's surface. This is important because excessive exposure to UV radiation can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment.
31.
Winds blowing from the northeast to the southwest near the North Pole as known as__________.
Correct Answer
B. Polar Easterlies
Explanation
The correct answer is Polar Easterlies. The winds blowing from the northeast to the southwest near the North Pole are known as Polar Easterlies. These winds are cold and dry, originating from the polar high-pressure zone. They are influenced by the rotation of the Earth and the temperature difference between the polar regions and the equator.
32.
Air masses moving in the northern hemisphere are turned westward from their original paths due to the _____________.
Correct Answer
B. Coriolis Effect
Explanation
Air masses moving in the northern hemisphere are turned westward from their original paths due to the Coriolis Effect. The Coriolis Effect is caused by the rotation of the Earth. As the air moves from high pressure to low pressure, it is deflected to the right in the northern hemisphere. This deflection causes the air masses to move in a westward direction. The Coriolis Effect also influences the direction of global wind patterns, ocean currents, and the rotation of hurricanes.
33.
A windless zone at Earth's equator where air masses rise almost striaght up is called ___________.
Correct Answer
A. Doldrums
Explanation
The correct answer is Doldrums. The doldrums refer to a windless zone at Earth's equator where air masses rise almost straight up. This area is characterized by low atmospheric pressure and calm winds, making it difficult for ships to navigate through. The term "doldrums" comes from an old word meaning "dull" or "sluggish," which accurately describes the lack of wind and movement in this region.
34.
The __________ reflects radio waves at night.
Correct Answer
B. Ionosphere
Explanation
The ionosphere is the correct answer because it is a region of the Earth's atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons. These charged particles allow the ionosphere to reflect radio waves, making it possible for long-distance communication via radio waves to occur. This reflection of radio waves is particularly strong at night when the ionosphere is less affected by solar radiation.
35.
Cool, dense air overr the sea moves inland toward warm, less dense air during the day creating ______________
Correct Answer
C. Sea Breezes
Explanation
During the day, the cool, dense air over the sea moves inland towards the warm, less dense air. This movement creates sea breezes. Sea breezes are a result of the temperature difference between the land and the sea. As the land heats up faster than the sea during the day, the air over the land becomes warmer and less dense. In contrast, the air over the sea remains cooler and denser. This temperature and density difference causes the air to move from the sea towards the land, creating sea breezes.
36.
At 30 degrees north or south of the equator, air descending to Earth's surface creates steady ________________.
Correct Answer
D. Trade Winds
Explanation
At 30 degrees north or south of the equator, air descending to Earth's surface creates steady trade winds. These winds blow from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere. The air at these latitudes is sinking due to the Hadley cell circulation, which is caused by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface. As the air sinks, it creates high-pressure systems and the trade winds blow towards the equator to fill in the void left by the rising air at the equator. These trade winds are important for navigation and have historically been used by sailors for trade routes.
37.
The tranfer of heat in the form of rays or waves is known as _______________
Correct Answer
A. Radiation
Explanation
Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of rays or waves. It does not require a medium to transfer heat and can occur through empty space. Conduction, on the other hand, is the transfer of heat through direct contact between particles. Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids or gases. Therefore, the correct answer is radiation.
38.
The ______________blow from southwest to northeast at 30 degrees to 60 degrees latitude in the northern hemisphere.
Correct Answer
A. Prevailing Westerlies
Explanation
The prevailing westerlies blow from southwest to northeast at 30 degrees to 60 degrees latitude in the northern hemisphere. These winds are caused by the rotation of the Earth and the differences in air pressure between the equator and the poles. They are responsible for the movement of weather systems and are important for shipping and aviation routes.
39.
Cool, dense air moves during the night from the land toward the sea as ______________.
Correct Answer
D. Land Breezes
Explanation
Cool, dense air moves during the night from the land toward the sea as land breezes because the land cools down faster than the sea at night. This causes the air above the land to become cooler and denser, creating a high pressure area. The air then moves from the land towards the lower pressure area over the sea, resulting in the formation of land breezes.
40.
Each hemisphere has two narrow belts of fast moving winds called _______________.
Correct Answer
A. Jet Streams
Explanation
Jet streams are narrow belts of fast-moving winds found in each hemisphere of the Earth. These high-speed winds flow in the upper levels of the atmosphere, typically at altitudes of 9 to 16 kilometers (30,000 to 52,000 feet). Jet streams are caused by the temperature differences between warm and cold air masses, and they play a crucial role in shaping weather patterns and influencing the movement of storms. They are important for aviation, as they can either assist or hinder the speed and direction of aircraft.
41.
Which of the following is an example of heat transfer by conduction?
Correct Answer
A. An entire metal spoon getting hot when one end is in hot soup
Explanation
When one end of a metal spoon is placed in hot soup, heat is transferred from the hot soup to the spoon through conduction. Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between two objects or substances. In this case, the hot molecules in the soup collide with the molecules in the spoon, transferring heat energy and causing the entire spoon to get hot.
42.
A wet towel will dry when it is left in the Sun. The process that produces this result is known as_______________.
Correct Answer
D. Evaporation
Explanation
When a wet towel is left in the Sun, the heat from the Sun causes the water molecules in the towel to gain energy and turn into vapor. This process is known as evaporation. As the water molecules evaporate, they escape into the surrounding air, leaving the towel dry.
43.
In the hydrosphere, which of the following terms invoves a phase change from liquid to gas?
Correct Answer
A. Evaporation
Explanation
Evaporation involves a phase change from liquid to gas in the hydrosphere. It is the process by which water molecules escape from the surface of bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers, and enter the atmosphere as water vapor. This phase change occurs when the energy from the sun causes the water molecules to gain enough energy to break the bonds holding them together as a liquid and become a gas.
44.
On a sunny summer afternoon, winds generally blow from the ocean towards land because the _______________.
Correct Answer
A. Land heats up faster than water
Explanation
During a sunny summer afternoon, the land heats up faster than the water. This is because land has a lower specific heat capacity compared to water, meaning it requires less energy to increase its temperature. As the land heats up, the air above it also warms up, creating a low-pressure area. In contrast, the water takes longer to heat up due to its higher specific heat capacity. The cooler air above the water creates a high-pressure area. The air moves from the high-pressure area (water) to the low-pressure area (land), resulting in winds blowing from the ocean towards the land.
45.
Which scenario would produce the strongest land breezes?
Correct Answer
B. Warm ocean, cool land
Explanation
Land breezes occur when the land cools down faster than the adjacent body of water. In this scenario, the warm ocean and cool land, the land is cooling down faster during the night, causing the air above it to become cooler and denser. This denser air then flows towards the warmer ocean, creating a strong land breeze.
46.
What are the two most abundant gases in our atmosphere?
Correct Answer
D. Oxygen and nitrogen
Explanation
Oxygen and nitrogen are the two most abundant gases in our atmosphere. Oxygen makes up about 21% of the atmosphere, while nitrogen makes up about 78%. These gases are essential for supporting life and are present in large quantities in the Earth's atmosphere.
47.
The following sentences appear in an events-chain concept map that shows how CFC's destroy the ozone layer. What is the correct order they should appear on the map.
1 - A regular two atom oxygen molecule is formed
2- A chlorine atom from a chlorofluorocarbon molecule comes near a molecule of ozone
3 - The ozone molecule breaks apart
Correct Answer
D. 2,3,1
48.
If you are standing at the equator, which way would southbound cold air appear to be moving as a result of the Coriolis effect?
Correct Answer
B. To the west
Explanation
Due to the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the rotation of the Earth, objects moving in the Northern Hemisphere appear to be deflected to the right. Since the equator is located in the Northern Hemisphere, southbound cold air would appear to be moving to the west as a result of the Coriolis effect.
49.
The amount of the Sun's energy that is reflected by the atmosphere.
Correct Answer
A. 6%
Explanation
The correct answer is 6%. This refers to the amount of the Sun's energy that is reflected by the atmosphere. It means that only 6% of the Sun's energy is reflected back into space by the Earth's atmosphere, while the remaining 94% is absorbed by the Earth's surface. This reflection is an important factor in the Earth's energy balance and climate regulation.
50.
The amount of the Sun's energy that is reflected by the clouds..
Correct Answer
B. 25%
Explanation
The correct answer is 25%. This means that 25% of the Sun's energy is reflected by the clouds. This indicates that a significant portion of the Sun's energy is not absorbed by the Earth's surface but rather reflected back into space by the clouds. This reflection of energy by the clouds plays a role in the overall energy balance of the Earth's atmosphere and affects the temperature and climate patterns.