Earth Science Vocabulary Quiz: Trivia
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Earth science vocabulary quiz: trivia. The solar system in which the earth belongs to is quite interesting. Even with all the resources some people still believe that the earth is not spherical but flat. The earth is made of different layers with the crust being the topmost part. In this quiz you will get to test out how well you understand some of the words we come across in earth science.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
First day of fall
Explanation
The autumnal equinox marks the first day of fall. It is the point in time when the sun is directly above the Earth's equator, causing day and night to be of equal length. This event typically occurs around September 22nd or 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere. The term "autumnal equinox" refers to this specific astronomical event and is therefore the correct answer.Rate this question:
- 2.
The partially melted layer of the mantle that underlies the lithosphere.
Explanation
The asthenosphere is the partially melted layer of the mantle that is located beneath the lithosphere. It is a region of the Earth's interior where the rock is hot and weak, allowing it to flow slowly over long periods of time. This layer plays a crucial role in plate tectonics, as it is responsible for the movement of the lithospheric plates. The asthenosphere is characterized by its plasticity and low viscosity, which allows it to deform and flow in response to stress from the overlying plates.Rate this question:
- 3.
Sept 21st is the start of this season.
Explanation
The correct answer is Autumnal equinox, fall. The autumnal equinox is the astronomical event that marks the beginning of fall. It occurs on September 21st or 22nd each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths. Fall, also known as autumn, is the season that follows summer and precedes winter. The answer provided accurately identifies the start of this season as the autumnal equinox, which is commonly associated with the onset of fall.Rate this question:
- 4.
Where the direct rays of the sun hit on December 21st.
Explanation
The Tropic of Capricorn is the latitude line where the direct rays of the sun hit on December 21st, also known as the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, the sun is directly overhead at noon at the Tropic of Capricorn, which is located at approximately 23.5 degrees south of the equator. This is the southernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead during the year, marking the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.Rate this question:
- 5.
Where the direct rays of the sun hit during the equinoxes.
Explanation
During the equinoxes, the direct rays of the sun hit the equator. The equinoxes occur twice a year when the tilt of the Earth's axis is neither towards nor away from the sun, resulting in equal day and night lengths. As the sun's rays are perpendicular to the equator during this time, it receives the most direct and intense sunlight, making it the location where the direct rays of the sun hit during the equinoxes.Rate this question:
- 6.
Where the direct rays of the sun hit on June 21st.
Explanation
The Tropic of Cancer is the latitude line where the direct rays of the sun hit on June 21st. This is the northernmost point where the sun is directly overhead during the summer solstice. It is located at approximately 23.5 degrees north of the equator. The direct rays of the sun hitting this latitude line result in longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures in the northern hemisphere during the summer months.Rate this question:
- 7.
The hottest layer of Earth is the
- A.
Outer core
- B.
Crust
- C.
Inner core
- D.
Mantle
Correct Answer
C. Inner coreExplanation
The inner core is the hottest layer of the Earth. It is a solid ball of iron and nickel at the center of the Earth, with temperatures reaching up to 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,932 degrees Fahrenheit). The intense heat in the inner core is due to the immense pressure from the layers above, which prevents it from melting. Despite being the hottest layer, it is not the outermost layer, as the outer core and mantle surround it.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What is the tilt of the Earth?
Correct Answer
23.5Explanation
The tilt of the Earth refers to its axial tilt, which is the angle between the Earth's rotational axis and its orbital plane around the Sun. The correct answer of 23.5 indicates that the Earth's axis is tilted at an angle of 23.5 degrees relative to its orbital plane. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons on Earth as different parts of the planet receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.Rate this question:
- 9.
The outer layer of Earth.
Correct Answer
crustExplanation
The explanation for the correct answer, "crust," is that the crust refers to the outer layer of the Earth. It is the thinnest layer of the Earth's structure, ranging from 5 to 70 kilometers in thickness. The crust is composed of solid rock and is divided into two types: continental crust, which forms the continents, and oceanic crust, which forms the ocean basins. The crust is where most geological activity occurs, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.Rate this question:
- 10.
Earth has ____________ standard time zones.
Correct Answer
24Explanation
Earth has 24 standard time zones. This is because the Earth is divided into 24 longitudinal sections, each spanning 15 degrees of longitude. As the Earth rotates on its axis, different regions experience different times of day. By dividing the Earth into time zones, it allows for a standardized system of timekeeping across the globe. Each time zone represents a one-hour difference from the neighboring time zone, resulting in a total of 24 time zones.Rate this question:
- 11.
The longest day of the year is this date.
Correct Answer
June 21st
june 21st june 21st
first day of summer
June 21Explanation
June 21st is the longest day of the year because it marks the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. On this day, the Earth's axis is tilted towards the sun, resulting in the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year. It is also known as the first day of summer, as it is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky and the days start getting shorter again.Rate this question:
- 12.
The study of Earth's surface and interior.
Correct Answer
geologyExplanation
Geology is the study of Earth's surface and interior. It involves examining the rocks, minerals, and landforms that make up the Earth, as well as the processes that shape them. Geologists study various aspects of the Earth, including its history, structure, and the natural resources it contains. By understanding the Earth's geology, scientists can gain insights into the planet's past, predict future events such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and explore for valuable resources like oil and minerals.Rate this question:
- 13.
A layer of the Earth's magnetic field.
- A.
Mantle
- B.
Outer core
- C.
Inner core
- D.
Crust
Correct Answer
B. Outer coreExplanation
The outer core is the correct answer because it is a layer of the Earth's magnetic field. The outer core is a liquid layer of molten iron and nickel that surrounds the solid inner core. It is responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field through the movement of electrically conducting materials. This magnetic field is important for protecting the Earth from harmful solar radiation and plays a crucial role in navigation and compass use.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What caused the Earth to melt and heavier material to sink towards the center of the Earth?
- A.
Spinning of the Earth
- B.
Sun
- C.
Meteorite impacts
- D.
Burning of fossil fuels
Correct Answer
C. Meteorite impactsExplanation
Meteorite impacts caused the Earth to melt and heavier material to sink towards the center. When meteorites collide with the Earth's surface, they release an enormous amount of energy, generating intense heat. This heat melts the Earth's crust and causes the heavier materials to sink towards the center due to their higher density. These impacts also contribute to the formation of the Earth's core and the differentiation of its layers.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A two-centimeter block that has a mass of 24 grams would have a density of ___________.
- A.
2 grams/cm squared
- B.
3 grams/milliliter
- C.
.33 grams/cubic centimeter
- D.
12 grams / cubic centimeter
Correct Answer
B. 3 grams/milliliterExplanation
The density of a substance is calculated by dividing its mass by its volume. In this question, the mass of the block is given as 24 grams and the unit of volume is not specified. However, since the options include units of cm squared, milliliter, and cubic centimeter, it can be inferred that the volume is in cubic centimeters. To find the density, we divide the mass (24 grams) by the volume (in cubic centimeters). Therefore, the correct answer is 3 grams/milliliter, as milliliters and cubic centimeters are equivalent units of volume.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The percentage of the Earth that is covered by water is ___________
- A.
10
- B.
71
- C.
29
- D.
68
Correct Answer
B. 71Explanation
Approximately 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water. This includes the oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. The remaining 29% is made up of landmasses, including continents and islands. The vast amount of water on Earth plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate, supporting various ecosystems, and providing habitats for countless species.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is changed when you cross the International Date Line?
Correct Answer
date
dayExplanation
When you cross the International Date Line, both the date and the day change. This is because the International Date Line represents the imaginary line that separates two consecutive calendar dates. When you cross this line, you are essentially moving from one side of the line to the other, resulting in a change in both the date and the day. For example, if you are traveling from west to east, you would gain a day and the date would change. Conversely, if you are traveling from east to west, you would lose a day and the date would change as well.Rate this question:
- 18.
The outer shell of the Earth consisting of the crust and uppermost portion of the mantle.
Correct Answer
lithosphere
LithosphereExplanation
The term "lithosphere" refers to the outermost layer of the Earth, which includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. It is the solid, rigid part of the Earth that is broken up into tectonic plates. The lithosphere plays a crucial role in plate tectonics and is responsible for the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. It is composed of various types of rocks and is where most geological processes occur. The correct answer for this question is "lithosphere" or "Lithosphere" because it accurately describes the outer shell of the Earth consisting of the crust and uppermost portion of the mantle.Rate this question:
- 19.
The thickest of Earth's layers, composed mostly of compounds rich in iron, silicon, and magnesium.
- A.
Crust
- B.
Inner core
- C.
Outer core
- D.
Mantle
Correct Answer
D. MantleExplanation
The mantle is the correct answer because it is the thickest layer of the Earth and is composed mostly of compounds rich in iron, silicon, and magnesium. The mantle is located between the crust and the outer core. It plays a crucial role in Earth's dynamics, including the movement of tectonic plates and the generation of volcanic activity.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The metric unit for volume is the _________.
- A.
Meter
- B.
Kilogram
- C.
Newton
- D.
Liter
Correct Answer
D. LiterExplanation
The metric unit for volume is the liter. Volume is a measure of the amount of space occupied by an object or substance, and the liter is the standard unit of measurement for volume in the metric system. It is commonly used to measure the volume of liquids and is equivalent to 1000 cubic centimeters.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Shortest day of the year is called the _____________________.
Correct Answer
winter solstice
first day of winter
winter
21st day of DecemberExplanation
The correct answer is "winter solstice." The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21st. It marks the first day of winter and is characterized by the longest night and the shortest period of daylight.Rate this question:
- 22.
The metric unit for mass is the ________.
- A.
Newton
- B.
Kilogram
- C.
Meter
- D.
Liter
Correct Answer
B. KilogramExplanation
The metric unit for mass is the kilogram. The kilogram is the base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI). It is defined as the mass of the International Prototype of the Kilogram, a platinum-iridium cylinder kept at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France. The kilogram is widely used in science, industry, and everyday life to measure the mass of objects. The newton is the unit for force, the meter is the unit for length, and the liter is the unit for volume, not mass.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The Earth _________ around the sun and ______________ on its axis.
- A.
Revolves, rotates
- B.
Rotates, revolves
- C.
Spins, rotates
- D.
Rotates, spins
Correct Answer
A. Revolves, rotatesExplanation
The Earth revolves around the sun in its orbit and rotates on its axis. The concept of revolution refers to the Earth's movement in its elliptical path around the sun, completing one revolution in approximately 365.25 days, causing the change of seasons. On the other hand, rotation refers to the Earth's spinning motion on its axis, completing one full rotation in approximately 24 hours, causing day and night. Therefore, the correct answer is "revolves, rotates."Rate this question:
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- 24.
The first day of spring is known as the _____________.
Correct Answer
Vernal Equinox
vernal equinoxExplanation
The first day of spring is known as the vernal equinox. This term refers to the specific moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in equal lengths of day and night. The vernal equinox marks the transition from winter to spring and is typically observed on March 20th or 21st in the Northern Hemisphere. It is an important astronomical event that symbolizes the renewal of life and the arrival of warmer weather.Rate this question:
- 25.
The prefix that means multiply by 1000 is _________.
- A.
Centi
- B.
Milli
- C.
Kilo
- D.
Deca
Correct Answer
C. KiloExplanation
The prefix "kilo" is used to indicate multiplication by 1000. It is commonly used in the metric system to denote units of measurement that are a thousand times larger than the base unit. For example, a kilogram is equal to 1000 grams. Therefore, "kilo" is the correct answer in this context.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The prefix that means divide by 1000 is ________.
Correct Answer
milli
MilliExplanation
The prefix "milli" is used to indicate dividing by 1000. It is written with a lowercase "m" when used as a prefix. The uppercase "M" is not the correct notation for this prefix. Therefore, the correct answer is "milli" with a lowercase "m".Rate this question:
- 27.
The prefix that means divide by 100 is
- A.
Centi
- B.
Milli
- C.
Kilo
- D.
Nano
Correct Answer
A. CentiExplanation
The prefix "centi" is derived from the Latin word "centum," meaning "hundred." It is used to indicate a division by 100. Therefore, when attached to a unit of measurement, such as centimeter or centigram, it signifies one hundredth of that unit. For example, a centimeter is one hundredth of a meter, and a centigram is one hundredth of a gram.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The metric unit for length is the _________.
- A.
Meter
- B.
Liter
- C.
Kilogram
- D.
Newton
Correct Answer
A. MeterExplanation
The metric unit for length is the meter. The meter is a fundamental unit of length in the International System of Units (SI) and is used to measure distances. It is defined as the length of the path traveled by light in a vacuum during a specific time interval. The meter is widely used in scientific and everyday measurements, such as measuring the length of objects, distances between locations, and the size of rooms or buildings.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The metric unit for weight is the ________.
- A.
Kilogram
- B.
Liter
- C.
Newton
- D.
Meter
Correct Answer
C. NewtonExplanation
The metric unit for weight is the newton. The newton is a unit of force in the International System of Units (SI). It is defined as the force required to accelerate a one-kilogram mass by one meter per second squared. While the kilogram is a unit of mass, the newton is the appropriate unit for measuring weight, which is the force exerted by an object due to gravity. The liter is a unit of volume, and the meter is a unit of length, so they are not the correct units for measuring weight.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The shape of the Earth is an ____________ because it bulges at the equator.
Correct Answer
oblate spheroidExplanation
The shape of the Earth is an oblate spheroid because it bulges at the equator. This means that the Earth is not a perfect sphere, but rather slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator. This shape is a result of the Earth's rotation, which causes the equatorial region to experience a centrifugal force that pushes outward, creating the bulge. The term oblate spheroid describes this specific shape of the Earth, with a slightly flattened polar axis and a wider equatorial diameter.Rate this question:
- 31.
The metric unit for temperature is _________.
- A.
Degrees Celsius
- B.
Degrees Fahrenheit
Correct Answer
A. Degrees CelsiusExplanation
The metric unit for temperature is degrees Celsius. This unit is widely used in scientific and everyday contexts around the world, except for the United States where degrees Fahrenheit is commonly used. Celsius is based on the freezing and boiling points of water, with 0 degrees Celsius being the freezing point and 100 degrees Celsius being the boiling point at sea level. It provides a convenient and easily understandable scale for measuring temperature.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Your weight would be greater at the equator than at the poles
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because your weight would actually be slightly less at the equator compared to the poles. This is due to the centrifugal force caused by the Earth's rotation, which counteracts the force of gravity and reduces your overall weight. At the equator, the centrifugal force is at its maximum, resulting in a slightly lower weight compared to the poles where the centrifugal force is minimal.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Place the layers of the Earth in the corect order. ( surface towards the center)
- A.
Crust, inner core, outer core, mantle
- B.
Crust, mantle, inner core, outer core
- C.
Mantle, crust, outer core, inner core
- D.
Crust, mantle, outer core, inner core
Correct Answer
D. Crust, mantle, outer core, inner coreExplanation
The correct order of the layers of the Earth, from the surface towards the center, is crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, followed by the mantle which is a thicker layer beneath the crust. The outer core is located beneath the mantle and is composed of liquid iron and nickel. Finally, the inner core is the innermost layer of the Earth and is solid due to the immense pressure.Rate this question:
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- 34.
All objects have gravity.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
All objects have gravity because gravity is a fundamental force of nature that attracts objects towards each other. It is a universal phenomenon that affects everything in the universe, regardless of its size or mass. Even though the force of gravity may be very weak for smaller objects, it still exists. Therefore, it can be concluded that all objects have gravity.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The most widely accepted model of how our solar system formed is called the ______.
Correct Answer
Nebular hypothesis
nebular hypothesisExplanation
The most widely accepted model of how our solar system formed is called the nebular hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that our solar system formed from a giant rotating cloud of gas and dust known as a nebula. Over time, gravity caused the nebula to collapse and flatten into a spinning disk. The central region of the disk eventually condensed to form the Sun, while the surrounding material clumped together to form planets, moons, and other celestial bodies. The nebular hypothesis provides a comprehensive explanation for the formation and characteristics of our solar system.Rate this question:
- 36.
The solar system is believed to have formed approximately ______________ years ago.
- A.
3.6 billion
- B.
4.6 million
- C.
4.6 billion
- D.
3.6 million
Correct Answer
C. 4.6 billionExplanation
The correct answer is 4.6 billion. This is because scientists believe that the solar system formed around 4.6 billion years ago. This estimation is based on various studies and evidence, such as the age of the oldest rocks on Earth and moon samples brought back by astronauts. By analyzing the composition and age of these rocks, scientists have been able to determine the approximate age of the solar system.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The temperature of the Earth increases with depth.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
As you go deeper into the Earth, the temperature increases. This is because the Earth's interior is heated by the radioactive decay of elements and the residual heat from its formation. The temperature gradient varies depending on factors such as depth, location, and geological activity. However, in general, it is true that the temperature of the Earth increases with depth.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The Earth is closest to the sun each year on ___________
- A.
January 2nd
- B.
July 2nd
- C.
June 21st
- D.
September 21st
Correct Answer
A. January 2ndExplanation
The Earth is closest to the sun each year on January 2nd. This is because of the elliptical shape of Earth's orbit around the sun. The point in the orbit where Earth is closest to the sun is called perihelion, and it occurs in early January. On this day, Earth is about 3 million miles closer to the sun compared to its farthest point in the orbit, called aphelion.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Radioactive decay of isotopes slows the rate at which Earth's interior cools.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because radioactive decay of isotopes generates heat as a byproduct, which contributes to the overall heat budget of Earth's interior. This heat helps to slow down the rate at which the Earth's interior cools over time. Without radioactive decay, the Earth's interior would cool much more rapidly, leading to a different geological and thermal history for the planet.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The Earth's shape is a result of it spinning as it cooled.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Earth's shape being a result of spinning as it cooled refers to the process of differentiation. As the Earth formed, it was initially a hot, molten mass. As it cooled down, the denser materials sank towards the center, while the lighter materials rose towards the surface. This process, known as differentiation, caused the Earth to take on a spherical shape. The spinning of the Earth helped to further shape it into an oblate spheroid, slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator due to centrifugal force. Thus, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 41.
The formula for weight is _______.
- A.
Length X width
- B.
Length X width X height
- C.
Mass X acceleration due to gravity
- D.
Mass / volume
Correct Answer
C. Mass X acceleration due to gravityExplanation
The formula for weight is mass X acceleration due to gravity. Weight is the force exerted on an object due to the gravitational pull. It is directly proportional to the mass of the object and the acceleration due to gravity. The greater the mass of an object, the greater its weight, and the greater the acceleration due to gravity, the greater the weight. Therefore, multiplying mass by acceleration due to gravity gives the correct formula for weight.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The Earth's greatest speed of rotation occurs at the __________.
- A.
Tropic of Cancer
- B.
Arctic Circle
- C.
Tropic of Capricorn
- D.
Equator
Correct Answer
D. EquatorExplanation
The Earth's greatest speed of rotation occurs at the Equator because the Equator is the widest part of the Earth and therefore experiences the largest circumference. As the Earth rotates once every 24 hours, the points on the Equator have to cover a greater distance in the same amount of time compared to other latitudes. This results in a higher speed of rotation at the Equator compared to other locations on Earth.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The Earth's seasons are a result of the Earth being ________________.
- A.
Tilted on its axis as it revolves
- B.
Spinning
- C.
Rotating
- D.
Earth's distance from the sun
Correct Answer
A. Tilted on its axis as it revolvesExplanation
The Earth's seasons are a result of the Earth being tilted on its axis as it revolves. This tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive different amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changes in weather and temperature that we experience as seasons. As the Earth orbits the sun, the tilt causes the angle at which sunlight hits the Earth's surface to change, resulting in the variation in seasons.Rate this question:
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- 44.
A layer of Earth that is made up of liquid iron and nickel.
Correct Answer
outer coreExplanation
The outer core is a layer of Earth made up of liquid iron and nickel. This layer is located beneath the Earth's mantle and surrounds the inner core. The outer core is responsible for generating Earth's magnetic field through the movement of the liquid metal within it. It plays a crucial role in the dynamics of Earth's interior and contributes to the overall structure and behavior of our planet.Rate this question:
- 45.
The tilt of the Earth's magnetic field is ______________.
- A.
22 degrees
- B.
11 degrees
- C.
33 degrees
- D.
23.5 degees
Correct Answer
B. 11 degrees -
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