1.
In the water cycle, evaporated water _____________.
Correct Answer
D. Condenses into clouds
Explanation
When water evaporates, it transforms from a liquid state to a gas state and rises into the atmosphere. As it rises, the water vapor cools down and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds. Therefore, the correct answer is "Condenses into clouds."
2.
__________ is the transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves
Correct Answer
C. Radiation
Explanation
Radiation is the transfer of energy by electromagnetic waves. Unlike conduction and convection, which require a medium to transfer energy, radiation can occur in a vacuum. It involves the emission of electromagnetic waves, such as heat, light, or radio waves, from a source and their subsequent absorption by another object. This transfer of energy through radiation is responsible for various natural phenomena, such as the heat from the sun reaching the Earth, or the warmth felt when standing near a fire.
3.
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 is ionized by solar radiation, causing it to contain a high concentration of charged particles. These charged particles, such as ions and free electrons, play a crucial role in various atmospheric phenomena, including the propagation of radio waves and the formation of the auroras. The other options, troposphere, exosphere, and stratosphere, do not have as high a concentration of electronically-charged particles as the ionosphere.
4.
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 dominant winds that blow from west to east in the mid-latitudes, between 30 and 60 degrees latitude. They are created by the rotation of the Earth and the temperature differences between the equator and the poles. The prevailing westerlies play a crucial role in shaping the weather patterns in the United States, as they bring in weather systems from the Pacific Ocean and influence the movement of storms and air masses across the country.
5.
The ________ merges into outerspace.
Correct Answer
D. Exosphere
Explanation
The exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere, where the atmosphere gradually merges into outer space. It is the highest layer of the atmosphere and contains very few gas molecules. This layer is characterized by extremely low density and high temperatures. Therefore, the given statement that "The exosphere merges into outerspace" is correct.
6.
Too much exposure to ____________ may cause skin cancer.
Correct Answer
C. Ultraviolet Radiation
Explanation
Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by the sun and other sources. Prolonged 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 the skin from excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when the sun is strongest.
7.
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 8-15 kilometers. It is where weather occurs and where most of the Earth's air mass is located. The air in the troposphere is warmed by heat from the Earth's surface through processes such as conduction, convection, and radiation. This is because the Earth's surface absorbs solar radiation and then transfers heat to the surrounding air in the troposphere, causing it to warm up.
8.
__________ 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 convection, heat is transferred through the movement of a fluid, such as air or water. This occurs because when a fluid is heated, it becomes less dense and rises, while the cooler fluid sinks. This creates a circular motion, or convection current, that transfers heat from one area to another. Convection is commonly observed in everyday life, such as when hot air rises from a radiator or when warm water circulates in a pot on a stove.
9.
The ___________ is caused by Earth's rotation.
Correct Answer
B. Coriolis Effect
Explanation
The Coriolis Effect is caused by Earth's rotation. It is a phenomenon that causes moving objects, such as air or water currents, to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. This deflection is due to the rotation of the Earth and the difference in rotational speed between different latitudes. The Coriolis Effect plays a significant role in the formation and direction of global wind patterns, ocean currents, and the paths of hurricanes and other weather systems.
10.
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 are cold and dry, originating from the polar high-pressure areas and flowing towards the lower latitudes. They are called Easterlies because they blow from the east to the west. Polar Easterlies are important in the global circulation of air and play a significant role in shaping weather patterns and climate.
11.
Reflection and absorption by the atmosphere prevent some _________ from reaching Earth's surface.
Correct Answer
B. Radiation
Explanation
Reflection and absorption by the atmosphere prevent some radiation from reaching Earth's surface.
12.
Temperatures in the thermosphere are __________.
Correct Answer
D. Very hot
Explanation
Temperatures in the thermosphere are very hot. The thermosphere is the layer of the Earth's atmosphere that is located above the mesosphere and below the exosphere. It is the highest layer of the atmosphere and is exposed to the Sun's intense radiation. The thermosphere can reach temperatures of up to 2,500 degrees Celsius (4,500 degrees Fahrenheit) due to the absorption of solar energy. This high temperature is caused by the interaction between the Sun's radiation and the sparse gas molecules in this layer.
13.
_________ 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 due to its unique properties and the range of temperatures and pressures found on Earth. Water can exist in all three states depending on the temperature and pressure conditions, making it essential for various natural processes and life on Earth.
14.
What occurs as as you increase altitude in the troposphere?
Correct Answer
D. Temperature decreases and pressure decreases
Explanation
As you increase altitude in the troposphere, the temperature decreases. This is because the troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere and is heated primarily by the Earth's surface. As you move higher up, the air becomes thinner and there is less heat being transferred from the surface, causing the temperature to drop. Additionally, as the altitude increases, the pressure also decreases. This is because there is less air above pushing down on the atmosphere. So, both temperature and pressure decrease with increasing altitude in the troposphere.
15.
Which layers have the same temperature trends
Correct Answer
B. Troposphere and Mesosphere
Explanation
The correct answer is Troposphere and Mesosphere. Both the troposphere and mesosphere have similar temperature trends. In the troposphere, temperature decreases with increasing altitude, while in the mesosphere, temperature also decreases with increasing altitude. This similarity in temperature trends is due to the fact that both layers are located above the Earth's surface and are influenced by the same atmospheric processes.
16.
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, causing the stratosphere to increase in temperature.
17.
The transfer of energy through contact.
Correct Answer
A. Conduction
Explanation
Conduction is the transfer of energy through direct contact between particles or objects. In this process, heat is transferred from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature. The particles in the warmer region gain energy and vibrate more rapidly, colliding with neighboring particles and transferring their energy. This continues until equilibrium is reached and the temperatures become equal. Conduction occurs in solids, liquids, and gases, but it is most effective in solids as the particles are closely packed.
18.
The transfer of heat causing differences in air density.
Correct Answer
B. Convection
Explanation
Convection is the correct answer because it involves the transfer of heat through the movement of fluid, such as air or water. When there are differences in temperature, the fluid near the heat source becomes less dense and rises, while the cooler fluid sinks. This creates a convection current, which helps to distribute heat throughout the fluid. In the case of air, convection is responsible for the movement of warm air rising and cool air sinking, leading to the circulation of air in a room or the formation of wind currents in the atmosphere.
19.
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 case, the energy transfer is happening from land and water to the air through direct contact. This is because when the land and water are warmer than the air, the heat is transferred to the air molecules through direct contact, causing the air to warm up. Therefore, conduction is the correct answer in this context.
20.
The transfer of energy from the sun to Earth's surface.
Correct Answer
C. Radiation
Explanation
Radiation is the correct answer because it refers to the transfer of energy from the sun to Earth's surface without the need for a medium or direct contact. Radiation occurs through electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight, which can travel through the vacuum of space and reach the Earth's surface. This process is responsible for heating the Earth and is essential for sustaining life on our planet.
21.
21% of the atmosphere in the troposphere
Correct Answer
D. Oxygen
Explanation
Oxygen is the correct answer because it makes up approximately 21% of the atmosphere in the troposphere. The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere where weather occurs. Oxygen is essential for the survival of many organisms, including humans, as it is used in the process of respiration.
22.
Most common gas in air
Correct Answer
A. Nitrogen
Explanation
Nitrogen is the most common gas in air, constituting about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is an essential element for all living organisms and plays a crucial role in various biological and chemical processes. Nitrogen is relatively inert and does not react easily with other substances, making it a stable component of the atmosphere. Smog, water, oxygen, and ozone are also present in the air, but in lower concentrations compared to nitrogen.
23.
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 is formed when oxygen molecules are broken apart by ultraviolet radiation from the sun. It acts as a protective layer in the Earth's atmosphere, absorbing most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. Ozone is important for maintaining the balance of temperature and climate on Earth.
24.
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 mixture creates a hazy, fog-like air pollution that is harmful to human health and the environment. Smog is typically formed from emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and power plants, which release pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. When these pollutants react with sunlight and other chemicals in the atmosphere, they form smog. Smog can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and damage to plants and ecosystems.
25.
The lowest layer of the atmosphere is the ____________; it contains clouds and smog.
Correct Answer
B. Troposphere
Explanation
The correct answer is Troposphere. The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, extending from the Earth's surface up to about 10-15 kilometers. It is where weather phenomena occur and where clouds and smog are found. The other options, mesosphere, thermosphere, and ionosphere, are higher layers of the atmosphere and do not contain clouds and smog.
26.
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 Earth's atmosphere. It is located in the stratosphere and acts as a protective layer, filtering out harmful UV radiation from the sun. This helps to prevent damage to living organisms and the environment.
27.
Heat transfer that occurs when molecules come in contact with one another is ________________.
Correct Answer
A. Conduction
Explanation
Conduction is the correct answer because it refers to the transfer of heat through direct contact between molecules. In this process, heat energy is transferred from the molecules with higher kinetic energy to those with lower kinetic energy. This transfer occurs through collisions between the molecules, causing them to transfer their energy to neighboring molecules. Therefore, conduction is the appropriate term to describe heat transfer when molecules come in contact with one another.
28.
Winds blowing from the northeast to the southwest near the North Pole as known as__________.
Correct Answer
B. Polar Easterlies
Explanation
Polar Easterlies are the winds blowing from the northeast to the southwest near the North Pole. These winds are caused by the polar high-pressure system and the rotation of the Earth. The cold air near the poles sinks and flows towards lower latitudes, creating the Polar Easterlies. These winds are important in shaping the weather patterns in the polar regions and play a role in the global circulation of air.
29.
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 region is characterized by low pressure and calm winds, making it difficult for ships to navigate. The name "doldrums" comes from an old English word meaning dull or sluggish, which accurately describes the lack of wind and movement in this area.
30.
The __________ reflects radio waves at night.
Correct Answer
B. Ionosphere
Explanation
The ionosphere is a region of the Earth's atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons. It is located between the mesosphere and the exosphere. The ionosphere is able to reflect radio waves at night because it is ionized by the Sun's ultraviolet radiation during the day, creating a layer of charged particles that can reflect radio waves back to Earth. This reflection allows for long-distance radio communication, as the radio waves are bounced off the ionosphere and redirected towards the Earth's surface.
31.
Cool, dense air near the sea moves inland toward warm, dense area during the day sets up ______________
Correct Answer
C. Sea Breezes
Explanation
During the day, the cool, dense air near the sea moves inland towards the warm, dense area. This movement is known as sea breezes. Sea breezes occur due to the temperature difference between the land and the sea. As the land heats up more quickly than the sea, the air above the land becomes warmer and less dense. In contrast, the air above the sea remains cooler and denser. This temperature difference creates a pressure gradient, causing the cool air from the sea to flow towards the warmer land, resulting in sea breezes.
32.
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. Trade winds are consistent easterly winds that blow towards the equator from the subtropical high-pressure belts. These winds are caused by the Coriolis effect and the temperature differences between the equator and the poles. The descending air at 30 degrees creates a high-pressure zone, which causes the air to flow towards the equator, resulting in the formation of trade winds.
33.
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. Unlike conduction and convection, which require a medium such as solids or fluids, radiation can occur in a vacuum as well. It is the process by which heat energy is emitted by a hot object and travels through space until it is absorbed by a cooler object. Radiation is responsible for the transfer of heat from the Sun to the Earth and is also commonly used in various heating systems and technologies.
34.
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 are the dominant wind patterns that blow from the southwest to the northeast at 30 degrees to 60 degrees latitude in the northern hemisphere. These winds are caused by the rotation of the Earth and the temperature differences between the equator and the poles. They are important for weather patterns and play a significant role in the movement of storms and weather systems.
35.
Cool, dense air moves during the night from the land toward water as ______________.
Correct Answer
D. Land Breezes
Explanation
Land breezes occur at night when the land cools down faster than the water. This causes the air above the land to become cooler and denser. As a result, the cool air moves from the land toward the warmer water, creating a land breeze.
36.
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 that flow in the upper levels of the atmosphere. They are found in both the northern and southern hemispheres and can reach speeds of up to 250 miles per hour. Jet streams play a significant role in weather patterns and can influence the movement of storms and air masses. They are particularly important for aviation, as they can either assist or hinder the speed and direction of aircraft.
37.
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 become more active. As a result, some of these water molecules gain enough energy to break free from the surface of the towel and enter the air as water vapor. This process is known as evaporation, and it is responsible for the drying of the wet towel in the Sun.
38.
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. It occurs when a liquid substance changes into its gaseous state, typically due to an increase in temperature. During evaporation, the molecules of the liquid gain enough energy to overcome the forces of attraction between them and escape into the surrounding atmosphere as vapor. This process is commonly observed when water evaporates from a puddle or when sweat evaporates from the skin, causing a cooling effect.
39.
Which scenario would produce the strongest land breezes?
Correct Answer
B. Warm ocean, cool land
Explanation
The scenario that would produce the strongest land breezes is when the ocean is warm and the land is cool. This is because during the day, the land heats up faster than the ocean, causing the air above the land to rise. As a result, cooler air from the ocean moves in to replace the rising warm air, creating a breeze that blows from the ocean towards the land. This breeze is stronger when there is a greater temperature difference between the warm ocean and the cool land.
40.
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. When sunlight reaches the Earth's atmosphere, a small portion of it is reflected back into space. This reflected energy is known as albedo, and it accounts for approximately 6% of the total energy received from the Sun. The remaining energy is absorbed by the Earth's surface and atmosphere, contributing to heating and other atmospheric processes.
41.
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. Clouds have the ability to reflect sunlight due to their composition and structure. This reflection of energy helps to cool the Earth's surface by preventing some of the Sun's energy from reaching it. The percentage of energy reflected can vary depending on factors such as cloud thickness and altitude.
42.
The amount of the Sun's energy that is reflected by the Earth's surface..
Correct Answer
C. 4%
Explanation
The correct answer is 4%. This suggests that only a small portion of the Sun's energy is reflected by the Earth's surface. The majority of the Sun's energy is absorbed by the Earth, contributing to its temperature and various natural processes. The low percentage of energy reflected highlights the importance of the greenhouse effect in trapping heat and maintaining a suitable climate on Earth.