Environmental Science Practice Quiz Questions! Trivia

An atom is the smallest particle that retains the characteristics of an element. It consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. Atoms combine to form molecules, but an individual atom is the smallest unit of an element that can exist on its own. Isotopes are variants of an element with different numbers of neutrons, while ions are atoms that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net positive or negative charge.

Utilitarian Conservation was indeed one of the earliest models for conservation in the United States. This approach focused on conserving nature not primarily to protect biodiversity, but rather to provide jobs and resources. This means that the main goal of conservation was to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of human society.

When people are faced with poverty and immediate survival needs, they often have no choice but to overharvest resources. This is because they rely on these resources for their basic needs and livelihoods. In order to meet their immediate needs, they may exploit natural resources beyond sustainable levels, leading to environmental degradation. This overharvesting can include activities such as deforestation, overfishing, or excessive use of water resources, which can have long-term negative impacts on the environment.

The correct answer is "an explanation supported by a substantial body of evidence." This answer accurately describes a scientific theory. In science, a theory is not simply someone's opinion or speculation, but rather a well-supported explanation that has been tested and validated through extensive evidence. The use of the phrase "substantial body of evidence" emphasizes the importance of empirical data and scientific research in supporting a theory.

Both of the given options, "We can learn through observation" and "Nothing can be absolutely proven," are basic principles of science. Science relies on observation and experimentation to gather knowledge and make conclusions. Additionally, the nature of scientific inquiry acknowledges that no theory or hypothesis can be proven with absolute certainty, as new evidence or information can always emerge to challenge or modify existing beliefs. Therefore, both statements align with the fundamental principles of science.

Scientific paradigms are characterized by being broad patterns of thought that guide thinking, influencing how we interpret evidence and determining which questions are relevant. However, they are not characterized by remaining unchanged forever once agreed upon. Scientific paradigms are subject to change and evolution as new evidence and understanding emerge.

Osmosis is a process through which solvents pass through a semi-permeable membrane from a region of low concentration to a region of high concentration. In this process, the solvent molecules move from an area where they are more concentrated to an area where they are less concentrated. The semi-permeable membrane allows the solvent molecules to pass through, but restricts the movement of solute molecules. This movement of solvent molecules helps to equalize the concentration of solute on both sides of the membrane.

Cellular respiration is the process in which organisms release energy from sugar for metabolic use. This process occurs in the mitochondria of cells and involves the breakdown of glucose molecules to produce ATP, the main energy currency of cells. Through a series of chemical reactions, the energy stored in the chemical bonds of glucose is released and used to power various cellular activities. This process is essential for the survival and functioning of all living organisms.

Manipulative experiments are conducted in a controlled environment, typically a laboratory, where researchers have control over the variables being studied. In these experiments, extraneous variables are held constant to isolate the effect of the manipulated variable. However, manipulative experiments are not suitable for studying large scale geologic forces, as these forces are natural phenomena that occur on a much larger scale and cannot be easily manipulated in a laboratory setting. Therefore, the statement "They are useful for studying large scale geologic forces" does not apply to manipulative experiments.

The correct answer is that matter can neither be created nor destroyed. This is known as the conservation of matter principle. According to this principle, matter can change forms and be rearranged, but it cannot be created or destroyed. This is because matter is composed of atoms and molecules, which are the building blocks of all substances. Therefore, the total amount of matter in the universe remains constant.