1.
The Precambrian Era is the most recent and shortest era.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. The Precambrian Era is actually the longest and oldest era in Earth's history, spanning from the formation of the Earth around 4.6 billion years ago to the beginning of the Paleozoic Era around 541 million years ago. It is divided into three periods: the Hadean, Archean, and Proterozoic. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that the Precambrian Era is the most recent and shortest era.
2.
Some fossils, called index fossils are used to establish the relative ages of rocks that contain these fossils.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Index fossils are fossils that are found in a narrow time range and are widespread geographically. They are used by scientists to correlate and date rock layers in different locations. By comparing the presence of index fossils in different rock layers, scientists can determine the relative ages of those rocks. Therefore, the statement that index fossils are used to establish the relative ages of rocks is true.
3.
A strike-slip fault is when the overhanging block of rock slides down.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A strike-slip fault is not when the overhanging block of rock slides down. In a strike-slip fault, the blocks of rock slide past each other horizontally, parallel to the fault line. This type of fault is characterized by shear stress and can cause earthquakes. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
4.
What percentage of salt is in the ocean?
Correct Answer
B. 3.5%
Explanation
The correct answer is 3.5%. This is because the ocean is composed of saltwater, which contains about 3.5% salt. This percentage is relatively consistent across different parts of the ocean.
5.
What is the saltiness of water called?
Correct Answer
D. Salinity
Explanation
Salinity refers to the saltiness of water. It is a measure of the concentration of dissolved salts, such as sodium chloride, in a body of water. Salinity can vary depending on factors such as evaporation, precipitation, and the influx of freshwater or seawater. It is an important parameter in oceanography and has significant effects on the physical and chemical properties of water, including its density and freezing point.
6.
What clouds are high, wispy, clouds made of ice crystals?
Correct Answer
A. Cirrus
Explanation
Cirrus clouds are high, wispy clouds made of ice crystals. They are usually found at high altitudes and are often associated with fair weather. Cirrus clouds have a thin and feathery appearance, and their presence indicates the presence of upper-level moisture in the atmosphere. They are formed when water vapor freezes into ice crystals due to low temperatures at high altitudes.
7.
Tornadoes form when warm and cold fronts meet.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Tornadoes form when warm and cold fronts meet because the contrasting air masses create instability in the atmosphere. When warm air rises rapidly and cold air sinks, it creates a rotating column of air known as a tornado. The clash between warm and cold air masses provides the necessary conditions for the formation of these destructive weather phenomena.
8.
What causes tides?
Correct Answer
C. Moon
Explanation
The moon causes tides. The gravitational pull of the moon creates a tidal force on Earth's oceans, causing them to bulge out towards the moon. As the Earth rotates, this bulge creates a high tide. On the opposite side of the Earth, there is another high tide due to the centrifugal force caused by the rotation. The areas in between experience low tides. This gravitational interaction between the moon and Earth is the main factor behind the occurrence of tides.
9.
Tidal waves can be caused by the movement of Earth's plates.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Tidal waves, also known as tsunamis, can indeed be caused by the movement of Earth's plates. When tectonic plates shift or collide, it can create a displacement of water, leading to the formation of tidal waves. These waves can travel across vast distances and cause significant destruction when they reach coastal areas. Therefore, the statement "Tidal waves can be caused by the movement of Earth's plates" is true.
10.
Water makes up __________% of Earth's surface.
Correct Answer
C. 70
Explanation
Water makes up 70% of Earth's surface. This means that the majority of the Earth's surface is covered by water bodies such as oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers. This is supported by scientific research and measurements that estimate the percentage of water coverage on the Earth's surface. It is important to note that this percentage refers to the surface area of the Earth and not the volume or total amount of water on the planet.
11.
What is the primary source of Earth's energy?
Correct Answer
C. The Sun
Explanation
The Sun is the primary source of Earth's energy because it emits vast amounts of electromagnetic radiation, including sunlight. This radiation is essential for various processes on Earth, such as photosynthesis in plants, which converts sunlight into chemical energy. The Sun's energy also drives weather patterns, ocean currents, and the water cycle. Additionally, solar energy is harnessed by humans through solar panels to generate electricity and heat.
12.
The Continental Shelf is the ocean floor nearest the edge of continents.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The continental shelf refers to the submerged part of a continent that extends from the shoreline to the continental slope. It is a relatively shallow area of the ocean floor that is closest to the edge of continents. This area is characterized by gradually sloping terrain and is rich in marine life. Therefore, the statement that the continental shelf is the ocean floor nearest the edge of continents is true.
13.
What are the three major groups of marine life? Check those that apply
Correct Answer(s)
A. Plankton
C. Nekton
E. Benthos
Explanation
The three major groups of marine life are plankton, nekton, and benthos. Plankton refers to microscopic organisms that float or drift in the water, including both plants (phytoplankton) and animals (zooplankton). Nekton are larger, actively swimming organisms such as fish, whales, and dolphins. Benthos refers to organisms that live on or near the ocean floor, including bottom-dwelling creatures like crabs, worms, and sea stars. Salivary glands and bulbs are not related to marine life and are therefore not correct answers.
14.
Identify the gases in the atmosphere
Correct Answer(s)
A. Argon
C. Water vapor
E. Xenon
Explanation
The gases identified in the atmosphere are argon, water vapor, and xenon. Argon is a noble gas that makes up a small percentage of the Earth's atmosphere. Water vapor is the gaseous form of water and plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate system. Xenon is another noble gas found in trace amounts in the atmosphere. Plutonium and ammonia are not naturally occurring gases in the Earth's atmosphere.
15.
Clouds form because the Sun's heat evaporates water into gases.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Clouds form when the Sun's heat causes water to evaporate into gases. This process is known as evaporation. As the water vapor rises into the atmosphere, it cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals, forming clouds. Therefore, the statement "Clouds form because the Sun's heat evaporates water into gases" is true.
16.
The motion of air is caused by ______________________________.
Correct Answer
B. The heating and cooling of air masses
Explanation
The motion of air is caused by the heating and cooling of air masses. As air is heated, it becomes less dense and rises, creating an area of low pressure. Conversely, as air cools, it becomes more dense and sinks, creating an area of high pressure. This temperature difference between air masses creates a pressure gradient, which in turn causes the air to move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. This movement of air is what we perceive as wind.
17.
The correct order of Earth's layers from innermost to outermost is
Correct Answer
B. Core - - - mantle - - - - crust
Explanation
The correct order of Earth's layers from innermost to outermost is core - mantle - crust. The core is the innermost layer, consisting of a solid inner core and a liquid outer core. The mantle is the middle layer, made up of semi-solid rock. The crust is the outermost layer, which is relatively thin and composed of solid rock. This order is based on the composition and physical properties of each layer.
18.
Which is the line of 0 latitude?
Correct Answer
B. Equator
Explanation
The equator is the line of 0 latitude. It is an imaginary line that runs horizontally around the middle of the Earth, dividing it into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. It is the widest circumference of the Earth and is located halfway between the North Pole and the South Pole. The equator is significant because it determines the Earth's climate zones and has an impact on weather patterns and the distribution of sunlight.
19.
Which direction does the Earth rotate?
Correct Answer
D. West to east
Explanation
The Earth rotates from west to east. This rotation is also known as eastward rotation or counterclockwise rotation when viewed from above the North Pole. This direction of rotation is consistent with the convention of measuring longitude from the Prime Meridian, which runs through Greenwich, London. The rotation of the Earth causes the rising and setting of the Sun, creating day and night, and also affects the movement of weather patterns and ocean currents.
20.
The Earth's shape is a perfect sphere?
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Earth's shape is not a perfect sphere. It is an oblate spheroid, meaning it is slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator. This is due to the Earth's rotation, which causes a centrifugal force that pushes material towards the equator. As a result, the Earth is slightly wider at the equator and narrower at the poles.
21.
High, wispy clouds made of ice crystals are
Correct Answer
D. Cirrus clouds
Explanation
High, wispy clouds made of ice crystals are called cirrus clouds. Cirrus clouds are thin and feathery in appearance, typically found at high altitudes. They form when water vapor freezes into ice crystals in the upper levels of the atmosphere. These clouds are often a sign of fair weather, but they can also indicate the approach of a warm front. Cirrus clouds are different from cumulus clouds, which are puffy and have a flat base, fog, which is a low-lying cloud near the ground, and stratus clouds, which are flat, gray, and cover the sky like a blanket.
22.
The bottom layer of the atmosphere which we live in, is called the ____________________________.
Correct Answer
C. Troposphere
Explanation
The bottom layer of the atmosphere in which we live is called the troposphere. It is the layer closest to the Earth's surface and extends up to about 10-15 kilometers. This layer is where weather phenomena occur, such as clouds, rain, and storms. It is also where most of the Earth's air mass is located, containing about 75% of the total atmospheric mass.
23.
Wind speed is measured with an instrument called a/an ________________________________.
Correct Answer
B. Anemometer
Explanation
An anemometer is used to measure wind speed. It is a device specifically designed to measure the velocity or speed of the wind. It typically consists of three or four cups mounted on a horizontal arm that rotates when the wind blows. The rotation of the cups is then converted into a measurement of wind speed. Therefore, an anemometer is the correct instrument for measuring wind speed.
24.
The main gases in Earth's atmosphere are nitrogen and hydrogen.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the main gases in Earth's atmosphere are nitrogen and oxygen, not nitrogen and hydrogen. Nitrogen makes up about 78% of the atmosphere, while oxygen makes up about 21%. Hydrogen is present in very small amounts in the atmosphere.
25.
Which planet has an atmosphere of carbon dioxide?
Correct Answer
C. Venus
Explanation
Venus has an atmosphere of carbon dioxide. The atmosphere of Venus is composed mainly of carbon dioxide, with small amounts of nitrogen and traces of other gases. The thick atmosphere creates a greenhouse effect, resulting in extreme temperatures on the planet's surface. The high concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to the planet's inhospitable conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius) and a pressure about 92 times that of Earth.
26.
Pluto has a tilted, stretched out orbit with only one moon.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Pluto's orbit is indeed tilted and stretched out, which means it is not a perfect circle like most other planets in our solar system. Additionally, Pluto only has one moon, named Charon. These characteristics make the statement "Pluto has a tilted, stretched out orbit with only one moon" true.
27.
The rotation period of ___________________ is about the same as Earth. It rotates once every 24 hours and 38 minutes.
Correct Answer
A. Mars
Explanation
Mars has a rotation period of about 24 hours and 38 minutes, which is similar to Earth's rotation period. This means that Mars takes approximately the same amount of time to complete one full rotation on its axis as Earth does.
28.
Our galaxy is called the Andromeda Galaxy.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. Our galaxy is not called the Andromeda Galaxy. Our galaxy is actually called the Milky Way. The Andromeda Galaxy is a separate galaxy located close to our own galaxy.
29.
The belief that the Sun is the center of the solar system is called a geocentric viewpoint.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The belief that the Sun is the center of the solar system is actually called a heliocentric viewpoint. This is the correct answer because the geocentric viewpoint is the belief that the Earth is the center of the solar system. The heliocentric viewpoint was proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus and later supported by Galileo Galilei, and it revolutionized our understanding of the solar system.
30.
The scientist who proposed a heliocentric system was ________________________________.
Correct Answer
A. Nicolas Copernicus
Explanation
Nicolas Copernicus proposed a heliocentric system, which states that the sun is at the center of the solar system and the planets revolve around it. This was a groundbreaking theory that challenged the prevailing belief in a geocentric system, where Earth was considered the center of the universe. Copernicus' heliocentric model laid the foundation for modern astronomy and our understanding of the solar system.
31.
The scientist who came up with the laws of planetary motion was Johann Kepler.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Johann Kepler is indeed the scientist who formulated the laws of planetary motion. He made significant contributions to the field of astronomy and his three laws, known as Kepler's laws, describe the motion of planets around the sun. These laws revolutionized our understanding of the solar system and laid the foundation for Isaac Newton's theory of universal gravitation. Kepler's laws are still considered fundamental principles in the field of astronomy and have greatly influenced our knowledge of celestial mechanics.
32.
Tectonic plates come together, collide at convergent boundaries.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that fit together like a puzzle. At convergent boundaries, two plates move towards each other and collide. This collision can result in various geological phenomena, such as the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. Therefore, the statement that tectonic plates come together and collide at convergent boundaries is true.
33.
An instrument used to predict earthquakes is a/an ________________________________.
Correct Answer
C. Seismograph
Explanation
A seismograph is an instrument used to predict earthquakes by detecting and recording the vibrations caused by seismic waves. It consists of a pendulum or a mass attached to a stationary base, which remains still while the ground moves during an earthquake. The relative motion between the base and the pendulum is recorded on a drum or a computer, producing a seismogram. This data helps scientists analyze the intensity, duration, and location of an earthquake, which aids in predicting future seismic activity.
34.
The deepest part of the world's oceans is the Mariana Trench.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Mariana Trench is indeed the deepest part of the world's oceans. Located in the western Pacific Ocean, it reaches a depth of approximately 36,070 feet (10,994 meters). This trench is formed by the collision of two tectonic plates and is known for its extreme depth and high pressure. It is home to unique and diverse marine life adapted to survive in such extreme conditions.
35.
The world's largest coral reef system is the Great Barrier Reef.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Great Barrier Reef is widely recognized as the world's largest coral reef system. It stretches over 2,300 kilometers and is located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The reef is home to a diverse range of marine life and is a popular tourist destination. Its size and ecological significance make it a unique and important natural wonder.
36.
The layer in Earth's atmosphere that absorbs much of the Sun's radiation.
Correct Answer
C. Ozone layer
Explanation
The ozone layer is the correct answer because it is the layer in Earth's atmosphere that absorbs much of the Sun's radiation. The ozone molecules in this layer absorb the majority of the Sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the Earth's surface. This absorption process helps protect living organisms from the harmful effects of excessive UV radiation, such as skin cancer and damage to the environment.
37.
Refraction is when light bends.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Refraction is the phenomenon that occurs when light travels from one medium to another and changes its direction. This change in direction is caused by the change in speed of light as it passes through different mediums. When light enters a medium with a different optical density, such as air to water or vice versa, it bends or refracts. Therefore, the statement "Refraction is when light bends" is true.
38.
Which of the following planets are the four inner planets of our solar system?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Mars
C. Mercury
E. Earth
G. Venus
Explanation
The four inner planets of our solar system are Mars, Mercury, Earth, and Venus. These planets are called inner planets because they are located closer to the Sun compared to the outer planets. They are also known as terrestrial planets because they are primarily composed of rock and metal. These inner planets have solid surfaces and are relatively smaller in size compared to the outer gas giant planets like Jupiter and Saturn.
39.
Who was the first man on the moon?
Correct Answer
B. Neil Armstrong
Explanation
Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon. On July 20, 1969, as part of the Apollo 11 mission, Armstrong became the first astronaut to step onto the lunar surface. His famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," have become iconic. Armstrong's achievement marked a significant milestone in human history and the exploration of space.
40.
How many degrees is the Earth tilted on its' axis?
Correct Answer
C. 23.5
Explanation
The Earth is tilted on its axis by approximately 23.5 degrees. This axial tilt is responsible for the changing seasons on Earth. As the Earth orbits the Sun, different parts of the planet receive varying amounts of sunlight, leading to the different seasons experienced in different hemispheres. The tilt also affects the length of daylight hours throughout the year.
41.
What are the three inner layers of the Sun?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Core
C. Radiative Zone
F. Convection Zone
Explanation
The three inner layers of the Sun are the Core, Radiative Zone, and Convection Zone. The Core is the central region where nuclear fusion occurs and is the hottest part of the Sun. The Radiative Zone is the layer above the Core where energy is transported through radiation. The Convection Zone is the outermost layer of the Sun's interior where energy is transported through the movement of plasma.
42.
What are the three types of plate boundaries?
Correct Answer(s)
C. Convergent
E. Transform
F. Divergent
Explanation
The three types of plate boundaries are convergent, transform, and divergent. Convergent boundaries occur when two plates collide or come together, resulting in the formation of mountains or subduction zones. Transform boundaries occur when two plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes. Divergent boundaries occur when two plates move away from each other, leading to the creation of new crust through volcanic activity.
43.
What is the Mohorovicic Discontinuity?
Correct Answer
B. Separates the crust and the upper mantle
Explanation
The Mohorovicic Discontinuity, also known as the Moho, is a boundary that separates the Earth's crust from the upper mantle. It is named after the Croatian seismologist Andrija Mohorovicic, who discovered this boundary in 1909. The Moho marks a significant change in seismic wave velocities, indicating a transition from the solid crust to the more ductile upper mantle. This boundary is important in understanding the structure and composition of the Earth's interior and plays a crucial role in the study of plate tectonics and seismic activity.
44.
Alfred Wegener suggested the idea of Pangea>
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Alfred Wegener was a German scientist who proposed the theory of continental drift in the early 20th century. He suggested that the continents were once joined together in a supercontinent called Pangaea and have since drifted apart to their current positions. This theory was supported by evidence such as the fit of the continents, matching geological features, and fossil distribution. Despite initial skepticism, his idea laid the foundation for our understanding of plate tectonics and the dynamic nature of Earth's surface. Therefore, the statement "Alfred Wegener suggested the idea of Pangea" is true.
45.
Prevailing Westerlies carry weather from West to East.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The prevailing westerlies are global wind patterns that blow from west to east in the mid-latitudes of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. These winds are caused by the rotation of the Earth and the uneven heating of the atmosphere. The prevailing westerlies are responsible for carrying weather systems, such as storms and fronts, from west to east across continents and oceans. Therefore, the statement that prevailing westerlies carry weather from west to east is true.
46.
A psychrometer measures relative humidity.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A psychrometer is a device used to measure relative humidity. It consists of two thermometers, one with a wet bulb and the other with a dry bulb. By comparing the temperatures recorded by both thermometers, the psychrometer can determine the amount of moisture in the air and calculate the relative humidity. Therefore, the statement "A psychrometer measures relative humidity" is true.
47.
How many continents, oceans and planets are there?
Correct Answer
D. 7 continents, 4 oceans, 8 planets
Explanation
There are 7 continents on Earth, which are North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica. There are 4 oceans, which are the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Arctic Ocean. As for planets, there are 8 in our solar system, which are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
48.
What are the large outer planets made of?
Correct Answer
B. Gas
Explanation
The large outer planets, such as Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, are primarily made of gas. These planets are composed mostly of hydrogen and helium, with traces of other gases. Their atmospheres are thick and gaseous, lacking a solid surface like the inner rocky planets. The gas giants have massive sizes and strong gravitational forces, allowing them to retain their gaseous composition.
49.
The supercontinent that theoretically existed millions of years ago is called _________________.
Correct Answer
B. Pangea
Explanation
Pangea is the correct answer because it refers to the supercontinent that is believed to have existed millions of years ago. This theory suggests that all the continents were once connected as one large landmass, which eventually broke apart and formed the continents we know today. The term "Pangea" is derived from the Greek words "pan" meaning all and "gea" meaning earth, representing the idea of a single landmass encompassing the entire planet.
50.
In the thermocline ocean layer, the temperature sharply ________________________.
Correct Answer
B. Drops
Explanation
In the thermocline ocean layer, the temperature sharply drops. The thermocline is a layer in the ocean where there is a rapid change in temperature with depth. As you descend into the thermocline, the temperature decreases rapidly, creating a noticeable drop in temperature. This is due to the mixing of warm surface waters and colder deep waters, resulting in a significant temperature difference within the thermocline layer.