Earth And Environmental Science EOC 9th Grade
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following best explains why the moon appears to move across the night sky, in a similar manner to the sun in the daytime sky?
- A.
The earth rotates once every 24 hours.
- B.
The moon rotates.
- C.
The sun revolves around the earth.
- D.
The moon revolves around the earth once every 24 hours.
Correct Answer
A. The earth rotates once every 24 hours.Explanation
The moon appears to move across the night sky in a similar manner to the sun because the earth rotates once every 24 hours. As the earth rotates, different parts of the earth's surface are exposed to the moon, causing it to appear to move across the sky. This rotation of the earth creates the illusion of the moon's movement, just as it does with the sun during the daytime. The moon itself revolves around the earth, but its movement across the sky is primarily due to the rotation of the earth.Rate this question:
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- 2.
How would the sun's apparent motion change if the earth did not rotate, as indicated by the red arrows?
- A.
There would be no change
- B.
The sun would travel from north to south
- C.
The sun would rise in the west instead of the east
- D.
The sun would appear to stay in one fixed location of the sky
Correct Answer
D. The sun would appear to stay in one fixed location of the skyExplanation
If the Earth did not rotate, the sun would appear to stay in one fixed location of the sky. This is because the apparent motion of the sun is caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the planet are exposed to the sun's light, creating the illusion of the sun moving across the sky. Without the Earth's rotation, the sun would always be in the same position in relation to an observer on the planet, resulting in a fixed location in the sky.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Scientists originally pictured a geocentric (Earth-centered) model of the solar system. They now consider it to be heliocentric (sun-centered).Which of the following isillustrated in the diagram above?
- A.
Geocentric
- B.
None of the above
- C.
Heliocentric
Correct Answer
C. HeliocentricExplanation
The diagram above illustrates the heliocentric model of the solar system. This means that scientists now believe that the sun is at the center of the solar system, with the planets orbiting around it. This is a shift from the earlier geocentric model, which placed the Earth at the center.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The above model best explains which of the following?
- A.
Why the sun "rises" and "sets" each day
- B.
Why the moon's appearance changes from day to day
- C.
Why there are different time zones on the earth
- D.
Why the earth experiences different seasons
Correct Answer
B. Why the moon's appearance changes from day to dayExplanation
The model best explains why the moon's appearance changes from day to day. This is because the moon orbits around the Earth, and as it does so, different portions of the moon are illuminated by the sun, causing different phases of the moon to be visible from Earth. This phenomenon is responsible for the changing appearance of the moon as observed from day to day.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Ocean tides observed at coastal locations each day are primarily caused by
- A.
The changing phases of the Moon
- B.
The gravitational attraction between the Moon and Earth
- C.
Earth’s revolution around the Sun
- D.
Seasonal changes in the compass location of sunrise
Correct Answer
A. The changing phases of the MoonExplanation
The correct answer is the changing phases of the Moon. Ocean tides are primarily caused by the gravitational attraction between the Moon and Earth. As the Moon orbits around the Earth, its gravitational pull creates a tidal bulge on the side of the Earth facing the Moon, causing a high tide. On the opposite side of the Earth, there is also a high tide due to the centrifugal force caused by the Earth-Moon system's rotation. As the Moon goes through its phases, the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth changes, affecting the strength of the gravitational pull and resulting in variations in tidal patterns.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Study of the environment
- A.
Psychology
- B.
Geology
- C.
Ecology
- D.
Astrology
Correct Answer
C. EcologyExplanation
Ecology is the study of the environment, including the relationships between organisms and their surroundings. It focuses on understanding how living organisms interact with each other and their physical environment. Psychology, on the other hand, is the study of the human mind and behavior. Geology is the study of the Earth's solid materials, while astrology is the belief that the positions of celestial bodies can influence human affairs. Therefore, ecology is the most appropriate answer as it specifically relates to the study of the environment.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Device that converts sunlight into electrical current
- A.
Collection cell
- B.
Retention cell
- C.
Photovoltaic cell
- D.
Ionic cell
Correct Answer
C. Photovoltaic cellExplanation
A photovoltaic cell is a device that converts sunlight into electrical current. It is made up of semiconductor materials that absorb photons from sunlight and release electrons, generating an electric current. The process is based on the photovoltaic effect, where the energy from photons is converted into electrical energy. This technology is commonly used in solar panels to harness solar energy and generate electricity for various applications. Ionic cell, collection cell, and retention cell are not specifically designed to convert sunlight into electrical current, making them incorrect answers.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Amount of carbon each person or group causes to be emitted due to daily activities:
- A.
Carbon quantity
- B.
Carbon fingerprint
- C.
Carbon footprint
- D.
Carbon qualification
Correct Answer
C. Carbon footprintExplanation
The term "carbon footprint" refers to the amount of carbon emissions that an individual or group is responsible for due to their daily activities. It is a measure of the impact that their actions have on the environment in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. This includes emissions from transportation, energy use, food consumption, and other activities that contribute to the release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Acid rain forms when:
- A.
Factories spew acid into the air, and the acid falls to Earth
- B.
There is no such thing as acid rain
- C.
Water in the clouds breaks-down
- D.
SOx and NOx go into clouds, and precipitate to Earth as sulfuric and nitric acids
Correct Answer
D. SOx and NOx go into clouds, and precipitate to Earth as sulfuric and nitric acidsExplanation
Acid rain forms when SOx (sulfur oxides) and NOx (nitrogen oxides) are released into the atmosphere from various sources such as factories, power plants, and vehicles. These pollutants react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the air to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid. These acids then fall to the Earth as acid rain, causing damage to plants, animals, buildings, and bodies of water.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A large body of air with similar characteristics.
- A.
Atmosphere
- B.
Air mass
- C.
Relative humidity
- D.
Troposphere
Correct Answer
B. Air massExplanation
An air mass refers to a large body of air that has similar characteristics in terms of temperature, humidity, and stability. These characteristics are acquired from the region where the air mass originates. Air masses can cover vast areas and can influence weather conditions as they move across different regions. Therefore, the term "air mass" is the most appropriate choice to describe a large body of air with similar characteristics.Rate this question:
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- 11.
EPA program that certifies equipment as energy efficient:
- A.
Efficiency Certification Program
- B.
Energy Miser Program
- C.
Energy Star Program
- D.
Efficiency Master Program
Correct Answer
C. Energy Star ProgramExplanation
The Energy Star Program is a well-known EPA program that certifies equipment as energy efficient. This program aims to promote energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by identifying and promoting products that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. The Energy Star label on products helps consumers make informed choices and save energy and money in the long run. This program has been successful in encouraging the development and adoption of energy-efficient technologies in various industries.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Blatant removal of trees from a wooded area:
- A.
Zoning
- B.
Paperization
- C.
Neutrofication
- D.
Deforestation
Correct Answer
D. DeforestationExplanation
Deforestation refers to the deliberate and widespread removal of trees from a wooded area. This process is often carried out to clear land for agricultural purposes, urbanization, or the extraction of natural resources. It leads to the loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and contributes to climate change. The term "deforestation" accurately describes the action of removing trees and is the most appropriate answer among the given options.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A stacked bar chart could include in one stack as "precipitation":
- A.
Snow, Hail, Sun
- B.
Rain, Snow, Cold
- C.
Rain, Snow, Hail
- D.
Sun, Heat, Wind
Correct Answer
C. Rain, Snow, HailExplanation
The correct answer is "Rain, Snow, Hail" because these three elements are all forms of precipitation. A stacked bar chart is used to show the composition of a whole category, in this case, precipitation. Each stack represents a different element within that category, and "Rain, Snow, Hail" are all different types of precipitation that can be included in the same stack. The other options listed do not fit this criteria as they include elements that are not forms of precipitation.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which is a form of weather:
- A.
Sleet
- B.
Winter
- C.
Spring
- D.
Autumn
Correct Answer
A. SleetExplanation
Sleet is a form of weather that occurs when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground, resulting in small ice pellets that fall from the sky. It is a type of precipitation that typically happens during colder temperatures and can create hazardous conditions on roads and sidewalks. Unlike winter, spring, and autumn, which are seasons, sleet refers specifically to a type of weather phenomenon.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Temperature at which tropospheric moisture condenses on surfaces.
- A.
Condensation
- B.
Dew point
- C.
Precipitation
- D.
Transpiration
Correct Answer
B. Dew pointExplanation
The dew point is the temperature at which the moisture in the air condenses on surfaces. When the air cools down to the dew point, it becomes saturated and can no longer hold all the moisture it contains. As a result, the excess moisture condenses into tiny water droplets on surfaces, such as grass, leaves, or windows. Therefore, the dew point is the correct answer as it represents the temperature at which tropospheric moisture condenses on surfaces.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Atmospheric layer containing most of the Earth's water
- A.
Troposphere
- B.
Stratosphere
- C.
Thermosphere
- D.
Exosphere
Correct Answer
A. TroposphereExplanation
The troposphere is the atmospheric layer closest to the Earth's surface and contains most of the Earth's water. This is because the troposphere is where weather occurs, and water vapor is a key component of weather systems. As air rises in the troposphere, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and precipitation. Therefore, the troposphere is responsible for the majority of the Earth's water cycle and is the atmospheric layer that contains the most water.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is the most dense?
- A.
100 degree C water
- B.
50 degree C water
- C.
25 degree C water
- D.
10 degree C water
Correct Answer
D. 10 degree C waterExplanation
Water is most dense at 4 degrees Celsius. As the temperature of water decreases from 4 degrees Celsius, it expands and becomes less dense. Therefore, 10 degree C water is less dense than 4 degree C water.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Layer between cold salt water and warm fresher water
- A.
Pycnocline
- B.
Mesolayer
- C.
Medilayer
- D.
Monolayer
Correct Answer
C. MedilayerExplanation
The correct answer is "Medilayer". The term "medilayer" refers to the layer between cold salt water and warm fresher water. This layer is characterized by a distinct difference in density, known as the pycnocline. The pycnocline acts as a barrier, preventing the mixing of the two layers and creating a stratified water column.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Atmospheric layer containing the Ozone Layer
- A.
Troposphere
- B.
Stratosphere
- C.
Mesosphere
- D.
Thermosphere
Correct Answer
B. StratosphereExplanation
The stratosphere is the atmospheric layer that contains the ozone layer. The ozone layer is a region within the stratosphere where high concentrations of ozone molecules are found. Ozone plays a crucial role in absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting life on Earth. Therefore, the stratosphere is responsible for shielding us from these harmful rays and maintaining the ozone layer.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What is it called where a freshwater river meets the ocean?
- A.
Estuary
- B.
Fjord
- C.
Bay
- D.
Lower river
Correct Answer
A. EstuaryExplanation
An estuary is formed when a freshwater river meets the ocean. It is a partially enclosed coastal body of water where the river's freshwater mixes with the saltwater from the ocean. Estuaries are characterized by their brackish water, which is a mix of freshwater and saltwater. They are typically home to diverse ecosystems and serve as important habitats for various species of plants and animals. Estuaries also play a crucial role in filtering pollutants and sediment, as well as providing nursery grounds for many marine organisms.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The passage of water through a plant is:
- A.
Transpiration
- B.
Evaporation
Correct Answer
A. TranspirationExplanation
The passage of water through a plant is called transpiration. Transpiration is the process by which water is lost from the leaves of a plant through small openings called stomata. This loss of water creates a suction force that pulls water up from the roots through the plant's vascular system. Evaporation, on the other hand, refers to the process of water turning into vapor and is not specific to plants.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Most of the river basins in North Carolina drain into the:
- A.
Atlantic Ocean
- B.
Mississippi River
Correct Answer
A. Atlantic OceanExplanation
Most of the river basins in North Carolina drain into the Atlantic Ocean because North Carolina is located on the east coast of the United States. The rivers in this region flow eastward towards the Atlantic Ocean, carrying water and sediment from the inland areas to the coast. The Atlantic Ocean is the closest major body of water to North Carolina, making it the most likely destination for the rivers to drain into. On the other hand, the Mississippi River is located on the opposite side of the country, in the central part of the United States, and does not drain into North Carolina.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A conical shaped feature formed in an aquifer when ground water is pumped from a well is the:
- A.
Cone of Depression
- B.
Water Table
- C.
Cone of Silence
- D.
Manic Table
Correct Answer
A. Cone of DepressionExplanation
A cone of depression is a conical shaped feature that occurs in an aquifer when groundwater is pumped from a well. As water is extracted from the well, the water table around the well drops, creating a cone-shaped depression in the groundwater level. This occurs because the pumping creates a localized lowering of the water table in the vicinity of the well. The cone of depression can extend outwards from the well, affecting the surrounding groundwater flow patterns and potentially causing nearby wells to experience a decrease in water availability.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What kind of aquifer is open to receive water from the surface, and whose water table surface is free to fluctuate up and down?
- A.
Confined
- B.
Unconfined
Correct Answer
A. ConfinedExplanation
An unconfined aquifer is open to receive water from the surface and its water table surface is free to fluctuate up and down. In contrast, a confined aquifer is surrounded by impermeable layers that prevent water from easily entering or leaving the aquifer, causing the water table to be confined and not fluctuate as freely. Therefore, the correct answer is unconfined.Rate this question:
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- 25.
This is an increase in plant growth due to added nutrients in the water.
- A.
Eutrophication
- B.
Salinity
Correct Answer
A. EutrophicationExplanation
Eutrophication is the correct answer because it refers to the increase in plant growth due to added nutrients in the water. This process occurs when excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, enter a body of water, leading to an overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants. As these plants die and decompose, they consume oxygen, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels in the water, which can harm aquatic life. Therefore, eutrophication is the most appropriate explanation for the given scenario of increased plant growth due to added nutrients in the water.Rate this question:
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- 26.
After a heavy rainstorm, vegetation on a hillslope was completely removed. How will this removal of vegetation affect the relative amounts of infiltrationand runoff that occurs during the next heavy rainstorm?
- A.
Infiltration and runoff will both be less.
- B.
Infiltration and runoff will both be greater.
- C.
Infiltration will be less and runoff will be greater.
- D.
Infiltration will be greater and runoff will be less.
Correct Answer
D. Infiltration will be greater and runoff will be less.Explanation
The removal of vegetation on a hillslope will result in less interception and evapotranspiration, allowing more rainwater to directly infiltrate into the soil. This increased infiltration capacity will lead to greater infiltration during the next heavy rainstorm. Additionally, without the vegetation to slow down the flow of water, runoff will be reduced, as there will be fewer obstacles to impede the movement of water downhill. Therefore, infiltration will be greater and runoff will be less.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Base your answer to the question on the photograph below and your knowledge of Earth science. The photograph shows a small waterfall located on the Tug Hill Plateau.Rock fragments that are tumbled and carried over long distances by this stream are most likely becoming
- A.
Less dense, harder, and smaller
- B.
Less rounded, jagged, and larger
- C.
More dense, angular, and smaller
- D.
More rounded, smoother, and smaller
Correct Answer
D. More rounded, smoother, and smallerExplanation
The correct answer is more rounded, smoother, and smaller. When rock fragments are tumbled and carried over long distances by a stream, they undergo erosion and abrasion. This process causes the rocks to become more rounded and smoother as their sharp edges and rough surfaces are worn away. Additionally, the constant movement and collision with other rocks cause the fragments to break into smaller pieces. Therefore, the rock fragments in the stream will be more rounded, smoother, and smaller.Rate this question:
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- 28.
An elongated hill that is composed of unsorted sediments deposited by a glacier is called
- A.
A delta
- B.
A drumlin
- C.
A sand dune
- D.
An out-wash plain
Correct Answer
B. A drumlinExplanation
A drumlin is an elongated hill that is formed by the deposition of unsorted sediments by a glacier. These sediments are typically composed of clay, sand, and gravel. The shape of a drumlin is usually streamlined with a gentle slope on the upstream side and a steeper slope on the downstream side. This landform is commonly found in areas that were once covered by glaciers during the last ice age.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which conditions on Earth’s surface will allow for the greatest amount of water to seep into the ground?
- A.
Gentle slope and permeable
- B.
Gentle slope and impermeable
- C.
Steep slope and permeable
- D.
Steep slope and impermeable
Correct Answer
A. Gentle slope and permeableExplanation
A gentle slope allows water to flow more slowly, giving it more time to infiltrate the ground. Additionally, a permeable surface (such as porous soil or gravel) allows water to easily penetrate into the ground. This combination of a gentle slope and a permeable surface promotes efficient groundwater recharge and allows water to seep into the ground effectively.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The canyon around the Snake River is a good example of erosion produced by:
- A.
Wind
- B.
Water
- C.
Glaciers
- D.
Gravity
Correct Answer
B. WaterExplanation
The canyon around the Snake River is a good example of erosion produced by water. Over time, the flowing water of the river has carved out the canyon, wearing away the rock and sediment. This type of erosion is known as fluvial erosion and is common in areas where rivers or streams have a significant impact on the landscape.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which diagram represents a side view of a sand dune most commonly formed as a result of the prevailing wind direction shown?
- A.
A
- B.
B
- C.
C
- D.
D
Correct Answer
C. CExplanation
Diagram C represents a side view of a sand dune most commonly formed as a result of the prevailing wind direction shown. This can be inferred from the shape of the dune in Diagram C, which features a gentle slope on the windward side and a steeper slope on the leeward side. This is a characteristic feature of sand dunes formed by wind erosion and deposition.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Large volcanic eruptions sometimes send dust and ash into the stratosphere. After these eruptions, global air temperatures are often
- A.
Cooler than normal because the atmosphere is less transparent
- B.
Cooler than normal because the atmosphere is more transparent
- C.
Warmer than normal because the atmosphere is less transparent
- D.
Warmer than normal because the atmosphere is more transparent
Correct Answer
A. Cooler than normal because the atmosphere is less transparentExplanation
Large volcanic eruptions can release massive amounts of dust and ash into the stratosphere. These particles can block sunlight from reaching the Earth's surface, leading to a decrease in global air temperatures. The dust and ash act as a barrier, reducing the transparency of the atmosphere and preventing the sun's rays from warming the planet as effectively. Therefore, the correct answer is that global air temperatures are cooler than normal because the atmosphere is less transparent.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which block diagram represents the plate motion that causes the earthquakes that occur along the San Andreas Fault in California?
- A.
A
- B.
B
- C.
C
- D.
D
Correct Answer
D. DExplanation
Block diagram D represents the plate motion that causes the earthquakes along the San Andreas Fault in California. The diagram shows two tectonic plates, the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, with arrows indicating their relative motion. The plates are moving horizontally past each other, which is consistent with the strike-slip motion observed along the San Andreas Fault. This diagram accurately represents the plate motion that leads to earthquakes in this region.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A seismic station recorded the P-waves, but no S-waves, from an earthquake because S-waves were
- A.
Absorbed by Earth’s outer core
- B.
Transmitted only through liquids
- C.
Weak and detected only at nearby locations
- D.
Not produced by this earthquake
Correct Answer
C. Weak and detected only at nearby locationsExplanation
The seismic station recorded the P-waves, but not the S-waves, because the S-waves were weak and only detectable at nearby locations.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Volcanic eruptions are good examples of:
- A.
Sudden changes to Earth's landscape
- B.
Gradual changes to Earth's landscape
- C.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Sudden changes to Earth's landscapeExplanation
Volcanic eruptions are good examples of sudden changes to Earth's landscape because they involve the rapid release of magma, gases, and other materials from within the Earth's crust. This sudden release of pressure causes explosions and the ejection of volcanic ash, lava, and rock fragments, which can dramatically alter the surrounding terrain. Volcanic eruptions can create new landforms such as mountains, calderas, and volcanic cones, and they can also destroy existing landscapes through the deposition of ash, the formation of lava flows, and the potential for landslides and avalanches.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Energy from which source most likely produced this sample of igneous rock, found near a volcano?
- A.
Wind
- B.
Erosion
- C.
The Sun
- D.
Earth's interior
Correct Answer
A. WindExplanation
The most likely explanation for the correct answer is that the sample of igneous rock was produced by wind energy. This is because wind erosion can carry and deposit sediments, including igneous rocks, from one location to another. In areas near a volcano, strong winds can transport volcanic ash and other materials, which can then solidify and form igneous rocks. The other options, such as erosion, the Sun, and Earth's interior, are less likely to directly produce igneous rocks in this specific context.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The hot spring pictured above relies on geothermal energy to maintain its heat. Which of the following is the best explanation of the word geothermal?
- A.
Heat energy from the Earth
- B.
Heat energy from the Sun
- C.
Electromagnetic radiation
- D.
Nuclear power
Correct Answer
A. Heat energy from the EarthExplanation
Geothermal energy refers to the heat energy that is derived from the Earth's internal heat. This energy is harnessed from the Earth's hot rocks, magma, and hot water reservoirs beneath the surface. It is a renewable and sustainable source of energy that can be utilized for various purposes such as heating, electricity generation, and hot water supply. The hot spring in the picture relies on this geothermal energy to maintain its heat, making "heat energy from the Earth" the best explanation of the term geothermal.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following represents the most gradual change in Earth's landscape?
- A.
Landslide
- B.
Earthquake
- C.
Mountain building
- D.
Tsunami
Correct Answer
C. Mountain buildingExplanation
The most gradual change in Earth's landscape among the options listed is "Mountain building."
Mountain building occurs over geological timescales and involves the slow uplift and creation of mountain ranges through tectonic processes. It typically happens due to the convergence of tectonic plates, where crustal materials are pushed upward and folded, leading to the formation of mountain ranges. This process unfolds over millions of years, making it a gradual change in Earth's landscape.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The energy that drives continental drift comes from:
- A.
The Earth's crust
- B.
The Earth's interior
- C.
Pangaea
- D.
North America
Correct Answer
C. PangaeaExplanation
The correct answer is Pangaea because Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed millions of years ago. The movement of tectonic plates caused the breakup of Pangaea, leading to the formation of the continents we have today. The energy for continental drift comes from the Earth's interior, where heat and convection currents drive the movement of tectonic plates.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The arrows in the above diagram represent the movement of which of the following?
- A.
Fronts
- B.
Air masses
- C.
Tectonic plates
- D.
Bodies of water
Correct Answer
C. Tectonic platesExplanation
The arrows in the diagram represent the movement of tectonic plates. Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below. These plates are constantly moving and interacting with each other, causing earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains. The arrows indicate the direction and speed of plate movement, showing how they collide, separate, or slide past each other.Rate this question:
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- 41.
New ocean floor is created at a fault boundary called a(n) _________________.
- A.
Plate
- B.
Ridge
- C.
Equator
- D.
Tsunami
Correct Answer
B. RidgeExplanation
At a fault boundary, the movement of tectonic plates can cause the creation of new ocean floor. This occurs specifically at a feature called a ridge. Ridges are formed when two plates move apart, allowing magma to rise up from the mantle and solidify to form new crust. This process is known as seafloor spreading and is responsible for the continuous expansion of the ocean floor. Therefore, the correct answer is ridge.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Which of the following continually creates new ocean seafloor?
- A.
The water cycle
- B.
Salt mining
- C.
Tectonic plate movement
- D.
Earth's rotation
Correct Answer
C. Tectonic plate movementExplanation
Tectonic plate movement is the correct answer because it is responsible for the creation of new ocean seafloor. The Earth's crust is divided into several large and small tectonic plates that are constantly moving. At the boundaries where these plates interact, such as at mid-ocean ridges, new seafloor is formed through a process called seafloor spreading. Magma rises up from the mantle, solidifies, and creates new crust, pushing the existing seafloor apart. This continuous movement and creation of new seafloor contribute to the expansion of the ocean basins.Rate this question:
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