C165 Integrated Physical Sciences
Which position on the diagram represents Earth's location in its orbit during winter at a weather station near Earth's south pole? A B C D
A
A hiker needs to select a day for a hike. The hiker examines weather forecasts for the next several days. Which day should the hike be planned for, if the hiker wants to hike on a clear day with no clouds? a) A day when a high pressure system rests over the area b) A day when a low pressure system rests over the area c) A day when a warm front moves through d) A day when a cold front moves through
a) A day when a high pressure system rests over the area
What is an example of climate change that can be caused by human activity? a) Changes in average temperature from increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide b) Changes in average temperature from changes in the sun's energy emission c) Changes in average temperature over Earth's history from changes in Earth's tilt d) Changes in temperature from the onset of the last ice age
a) Changes in average temperature from increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide
For many decades, scientists thought they understood how ozone breaks down in the stratosphere, creating ozone holes. However, new data show significantly lower reaction rates than can be explained by the long-held model. What is the appropriate scientific approach for dealing with this contradiction? a) Conduct additional experiments to confirm the new data b) Ignore the new data because it contradicts the accepted model c) Ask the general public to vote on which data are correct d) Accept whichever data the most famous scientists support
a) Conduct additional experiments to confirm the new data
An environmental scientist monitors pollutants in a lake. Which two disciplines of physical science does this scientist use? (Choose 2 answers) a) Earth Science b) Astronomy c) Chemistry d) Physics
a) Earth Science c) Chemistry
Which force causes graphite from the tip of a pencil to transfer to the paper? a) Friction b) Gravity c) Air Resistance d) Tension
a) Friction
Which force causes meteors to burn up when they enter Earth's atmosphere? a) Friction b) Gravity c) Magnetism d) Tension
a) Friction
Which properties will elements in group 2 share, based on location in the periodic table? (Choose 2 answers) a) Good thermal conductivity b) Poor thermal conductivity c) Poor electrical conductivity d) Good electrical conductivity
a) Good thermal conductivity d) Good electrical conductivity
Is heat absorbed or released when a gas condenses? a) Heat is released when a gas condenses. b) heat is absorbed when a gas condenses.
a) Heat is released when a gas condenses.
In which state of matter are particles close together, but able to slide past one another? a) Liquid b) Solid c) Plasma d) Gas
a) Liquid
Which kind of electromagnetic radiation carries information to and from a cell phone when it is used for a phone call? a) Microwaves b) X-rays c) Infrared radiation d) Ultraviolet radiation
a) Microwaves
Why was the shrinking Earth idea replaced by the theory of plate tectonics? a) Plate tectonics explained observations about Earth that the shrinking Earth could not explain. b) Many well-known geologists were involved in proposing plate tectonics. c) Geologists voted on which theory to accept, and chose plate tectonics. d) Plate tectonics was a new theory, which made it more reliable.
a) Plate tectonics explained observations about Earth that the shrinking Earth could not explain.
During heavy rains, the soil on a farm is washed away into a nearby river. Which parts of the water cycle result in this loss of soil? (Choose 2 answers) a) Precipitation b) Infiltration c) Runoff d) Evaporation
a) Precipitation c) Runoff
Which change of state does the image show? a) Solid to liquid b) Liquid to gas c) Gas to solid d) Gas to liquid
a) Solid to liquid
Two boxes sitting on the floor look identical, but one has more mass than the other. What happens when the same net force, sufficient to overcome static friction, is applied to each box? a) The box with less mass accelerates more. b) The box with more mass accelerates more. c) Both boxes accelerate at the same rate. d) Both boxes remain at rest.
a) The box with less mass accelerates more.
Two identical train engines are parked on parallel tracks. One engine has ten cars attached, and the other has no cars attached. Each engine exerts the same net force, which allows the train to overcome static friction. Which engine will be able to accelerate more? a) The engine not pulling any cars will accelerate more. b) The engine pulling ten cars will accelerate more. c) Both engines will accelerate at the same rate. d) Both engines will remain at rest.
a) The engine not pulling any cars will accelerate more.
What is true during summer in the northern hemisphere? a) The northern hemisphere receives more direct sunlight than in the winter. b) The northern hemisphere is tilted less toward the sun than in the winter. c) Earth is closer to the sun than during the winter. d) Earth rotates more slowly than in the winter.
a) The northern hemisphere receives more direct sunlight than in the winter.
What happens when wet clothes dry outside on a warm day? a) The water in the clothes absorbs energy from the air and becomes a gas. b) The water in the clothes releases energy into the air and becomes a gas. c) The air absorbs energy from the water and changes the water into a gas. d) The air releases energy into the clothes and changes into liquid water.
a) The water in the clothes absorbs energy from the air and becomes a gas.
Which has a greater thermal energy, coffee at 80°C in a cup or water at 80°C in a swimming pool? a) The water in the pool has a greater thermal energy, because it contains many more molecules, and thermal energy measures the total energy of all the particles. b) The water in the pool has a greater thermal energy, because it contains many more molecules, and thermal energy measures the average energy of the particles. c) The coffee and the water in the pool have the same thermal energy, which in both cases is 80°C.
a) The water in the pool has a greater thermal energy, because it contains many more molecules, and thermal energy measures the total energy of all the particles.
Which is a characteristic of electromagnetic waves? a) Transverse wave motion b) Travels faster through water than air c) Longitudinal wave motion d) Can travel only through a vacuum
a) Transverse wave motion
Through which layer of the atmosphere does a mountaineer climbing a tall mountain ascend? a) Troposphere b) Stratosphere c) Mesosphere d) Thermosphere
a) Troposphere
A river flows across a region. As the river flows, it erodes the rock beneath it. Which type of landform will develop if the river continues to flow along a straight path? a) Valley b) Dune c) Glacier d) Meander
a) Valley
How could a zinc ion with a charge of plus two (Zn+2) be converted to an electrically neutral zinc atom? a) by the addition of two electrons b) by the loss of two electrons c) by the loss of two protons
a) by the addition of two electrons
Which of these is an example of a mineral? a) calcite (composed of calcium carbonate) b) granite (composed of quartz and feldspar) c) basalt (made of various silicon compounds) d) petroleum (composed of hydrocarbon compounds)
a) calcite (composed of calcium carbonate)
Which of these properties characterize the outer planets compared to the inner planets? a) gaseous and less dense b) a shorter year (shorter amount of time to go around the sun) c) smaller size d) made of high density material
a) gaseous and less dense
Ocean tides are caused by the force of gravity mainly from the moon and secondarily from the sun as Earth rotates on its axis. Which two of the following physical sciences MOST directly deal with the tides and what causes them? a) physics and Earth science b) chemistry and Earth science c) life science and Earth science d) physics and chemistry
a) physics and Earth science
Many species of fish contain a swim bladder within their body that is filled with gas and helps the fish to control and maintain their depth below the water. What two fields of science MOST directly explain the operation and evolution of the swim bladder of fish? a) physics and life science b) physics and chemistry c) chemistry and Earth science d) Earth science and life science
a) physics and life science
You have a piece of play dough. If you cut the piece in two equal parts, its density will __________. a) stay the same b) decrease two times c) increase two times
a) stay the same
What happens in an area where there is an anticyclone? a) the air pressure is higher and sinking cold air reduces cloud cover b) a tornado develops from the circling motion of the air c) water vapor condenses to form clouds and the pressure drops d) rising cold air causes precipitation when it meets the warmer air above
a) the air pressure is higher and sinking cold air reduces cloud cover
The British Isles and Saratov, Russia are equally far north, but Saratov is far inland. The mean temperature in January in London is 7oC while it is a much colder -5 on average in Saratov at that time of year.What BEST explains London having milder winter temperatures than Saratov? a) the ocean current b) more daylight hours c) stronger sunlight over the ocean d) higher humidity from the sea
a) the ocean current
Which of the following may change during a physical change? a) the spacing between atoms or molecules b) the identity of atoms c) the chemical composition
a) the spacing between atoms or molecules
When there is no conceivable way to prove a statement false, then the statement is __________. a) untestable b) true c) confirmed
a) untestable
Using the base SI unit for temperature, the boiling point of water can be written as a) 100 °F b) 373 K c) 100 K
b) 373 K
Which example describes a compound? a) A substance with only iron atoms b) A substance with sodium atoms bonded to chlorine atoms c) A substance with fluorine and nitrogen atoms that are not bonded together d) A substance with iron and aluminum atoms that are not bonded to each other
b) A substance with sodium atoms bonded to chlorine atoms
Which action demonstrates a chemical change? a) Shredding paper b) Cooking an egg c) Evaporating water d) Breaking a stick
b) Cooking an egg
Which topic would be appropriate for a controlled experiment? a) Predicting the path of a tornado b) Determining how fast different chemical pollutants dissolve in water c) Comparing the elements present in different stars d) Measuring how fast a river flows
b) Determining how fast different chemical pollutants dissolve in water
How is a compound formed? a) Atomic nuclei fuse together. b) Electrons are transferred or shared between atoms. c) Protons are transferred or shared between atoms.
b) Electrons are transferred or shared between atoms.
A student makes the diagram of the rock cycle that is shown here. Which description should the student place on arrow A? a) Melting and cooling b) Erosion and deposition c) Heat and pressure d) Folding and cracking
b) Erosion and deposition
Which force keeps Jupiter in orbit around the Sun? a) Air resistance b) Gravity c) Kinetic friction d) Magnetism
b) Gravity
A galaxy consists of many stars in the same large region of space. Which phenomenon leads stars to group together to form a galaxy? a) Electrical attraction b) Gravity between stars c) Random coincidence d) Nuclear force between ions
b) Gravity between stars
After natural disasters, first responders can locate survivors in the rubble by using thermal detectors. Because the victims' bodies are warmer than their surroundings, the difference in temperature is detected by electromagnetic waves. Which part of the electromagnetic spectrum is being detected? a) Radio waves b) Infrared radiation c) Ultraviolet radiation d) X-rays
b) Infrared radiation
The rock layers shown in the illustration have not been disturbed or overturned. What can be inferred about the geologic history of this area from these rock layers? a) It has experienced frequent volcanic eruptions. b) It was exposed to high heat and pressure, and then experienced deposition. c) It experienced deposition, and then was exposed to high heat and pressure. d) It was once located in a magma chamber.
b) It was exposed to high heat and pressure, and then experienced deposition.
What energy conversion takes place as a box slides to a stop on a horizontal table? a) Gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. b) Kinetic energy is converted into thermal energy. c) Chemical potential energy is converted into gravitational potential energy. d) Elastic potential energy is converted into gravitational potential energy.
b) Kinetic energy is converted into thermal energy.
Which of these BEST describes how atomic theory developed? a) J.J. Thomson discovered that matter consists of atomic nuclei and electrons. b) Many people at different times contributed to the discovery of the atomic nature of matter and subatomic particles. c) Ancient scholars in Greece postulated that matter is made of atoms that consist of electrons circling nuclei. d) John Dalton deduced that matter consisted of atoms made from electrons and nuclei.
b) Many people at different times contributed to the discovery of the atomic nature of matter and subatomic particles.
Consider the location of sodium (Na) on the periodic table. Which element has chemical properties that are similar to sodium's? a) Beryllium (Be) b) Potassium (K) c) Neon (Ne) d) Chlorine (Cl)
b) Potassium (K)
Snow falls from the atmosphere and accumulates on a glacier. Which part of the water cycle does this process represent? a) Infiltration b) Precipitation c) Evaporation d) Runoff
b) Precipitation
For almost 1500 years most scientists in Europe accepted Ptolemy's geocentric planetary model that suggested the sun revolved around Earth. By the eighteenth century, most scientists supported a heliocentric model that suggests that Earth revolves around the sun. What is an appropriate scientific basis for this change in view? a) The most prominent scientist that supported the geocentric model died b) The existing theory was changed to account for new data c) The old theory was voted down by a scientific council d) The heliocentric model was supported by a popular scientist
b) The existing theory was changed to account for new data
When baking soda is added to vinegar, a chemical reaction occurs. The reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, and a liquid solution consisting mostly of water and a salt called sodium acetate. How is mass affected in this reaction, according to the law of conservation of matter? a) The total mass of baking soda and carbon dioxide must equal the total mass of the liquid solution. b) The total mass of baking soda and vinegar must equal the total mass of carbon dioxide and the liquid solution. c) The total mass of baking soda and vinegar must equal the total mass of the liquid solution. d) The total mass of vinegar and water must equal the total mass of baking soda, carbon dioxide, and the liquid solution.
b) The total mass of baking soda and vinegar must equal the total mass of carbon dioxide and the liquid solution.
In which phase change is energy being absorbed from the surroundings? a) A pond freezing over in winter b) Water boiling on an electric burner c) Molten glass solidifying into a vase d) Clouds forming on a summer day
b) Water boiling on an electric burner
Which question requires a controlled experiment to answer? a) Which fossils formed earliest in Earth's History b) Which type of rock contains the most calcium? c) Which elements are found in Earth's atmosphere? d) Which planet has the most moons?
b) Which type of rock contains the most calcium?
Is the following change a physical change or a chemical change? H2O + CO2 → H2CO3 a) a physical change b) a chemical change
b) a chemical change
In which of the following situations is the object's potential energy changing? a) a man biking at 20 miles per hour on a straight road b) a child sledding down a hill c) a jug of milk standing on the top shelf in a refrigerator d) a person rowing a canoe on a lake
b) a child sledding down a hill
Which of these is a source of greenhouse gases? a) nuclear power plants b) deforestation c) hydroelectric power plants d) photosynthesis by algae
b) deforestation
What process generates the energy that stars emit? a) gravitational acceleration of matter to convert potential energy to kinetic energy b) fusion of hydrogen or other small nuclei to form larger nuclei c) chemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen to form water vapor d) fission of uranium or other large nuclei to form smaller nuclei
b) fusion of hydrogen or other small nuclei to form larger nuclei
A hydroelectric power plant converts the energy from flowing water in rivers into electric power. Where does the energy that converts originate? a) fossil fuels in the generating plant b) gravity in changing potential energy of the water into kinetic energy c) Earth's interior by heating water d) tides by causing water levels to rise e) the sun by causing evaporation
b) gravity in changing potential energy of the water into kinetic energy
What mechanism causes the motion of air that leads to convection cells? a) ocean currents pushing the air b) heated air being pushed up and colder air sinking c) typhoons and hurricanes d) monsoons at the equator
b) heated air being pushed up and colder air sinking
What type of chemical bond results in the formation of ions? a) molecular bond b) ionic bond c) covalent bond d) metallic bond
b) ionic bond
Silver ions (Ag+) and chloride ions (Cl-) react to form silver chloride (AgCl): Ag+(aq) + Cl-(aq) → AgCl What type of bond holds the silver and chloride ions together in silver chloride? a) covalent bond b) metallic bond c) ionic bond
b) metallic bond
Which type of element is located toward the left on the periodic table? a) nonmetals b) metals c) metalloids
b) metals
At a given temperature, most particles of matter move at an average speed. However, some particles move faster and some move slower. Assuming that the substance is a liquid, which particles are MOST LIKELY to evaporate? a) particles moving at the average speed b) particles moving faster than average c) particles moving slower than average
b) particles moving faster than average
In general, the __________ the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, the more damaging the radiation is to cells. a) longer b) shorter
b) shorter
Which subatomic particle has approximately the same mass as the proton? a) the electron b) the neutron
b) the neutron
Which of the following is the closest to your height? a) 2 km b) 2 cm c) 2 m d) 2 mm
c) 2 m
A beaker contains 500 g of liquid water. An ice cube with a mass of 5 g is added to the water in the beaker. How many grams of liquid water are in the beaker when the ice has melted? a) Less than 500 g b) 500 g c) 505 g d) More than 505 g
c) 505 g
A gardener is working in a garden on a hot, humid day. Suddenly, clouds begin to form. Within a few hours, gusty winds and a thunderstorm are passing through the area. After the storms pass, the weather is clear and much cooler. What caused this change in weather? a) A high pressure system rested over the area. b) A low pressure system rested over the area. c) A cold front moved through the area. d) A warm front moved through the area.
c) A cold front moved through the area.
The rock layers shown in the illustration have not been disturbed or overturned. Which type of environment was present in this region most recently, based on these rock layers? a) A hot, high-pressure mountain b) A volcano c) A warm, shallow sea d) A magma chamber
c) A warm, shallow sea
Where is metamorphic rock found in the rock cycle? a) After erosion and deposition b) After folding and cracking c) After heat and pressure d) After melting and cooling
c) After heat and pressure
Astronomers have long accepted that plate tectonics exists nowhere in our solar system except on Earth. In 2011, a scientist analyzed 100 NASA-space mission photographs of Valles Marineris on Mars, the longest known series of canyons in the solar system. The scientist found that Valles Marineris showed features found only in locations on Earth where major tectonic plates divide. What would be the appropriate response of scientists to this information? a) Hold public debates among scientists and then vote whether plate tectonics occurs on Mars b) Decide whether to accept plate tectonics on Mars based on the reputation of scientist involved c) Carry out further research to gain more understanding of possible plate tectonics on Mars d) Reject plate tectonics on Mars as the explanation because it contradicts accepted science
c) Carry out further research to gain more understanding of possible plate tectonics on Mars
According to the theory of plate tectonics, volcanoes are especially likely to form along plate boundaries because of rising magma. New satellite data mapping the ocean floor reveals thousands of seamounts, which are small volcanoes. Some of the seamounts are in lines that could correspond to past or present plate boundaries, but many are not aligned in this way. How should scientists appropriately respond to the idea that some new mechanism of forming the volcanoes is involved? a) Reject it because it contradicts the theory of plate tectonics b) Accept it if the person proposing it is a credible expert on plate tectonics. c) Carry out more research to understand better how the seamounts form d) Stage public debates to get a consensus on how the seamounts form
c) Carry out more research to understand better how the seamounts form
Which type of energy conversion occurs at the moment fireworks explode? a) Elastic potential energy is converted into thermal energy. b) Gravitational potential energy is converted into thermal energy. c) Chemical potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. d) Elastic potential energy is converted into gravitational potential energy.
c) Chemical potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
What energy conversion occurs in a car's engine? a) Kinetic energy is converted into elastic potential energy. b) Gravitational potential energy is converted into electrical potential energy. c) Chemical potential energy is converted into thermal energy. d) Thermal energy is converted into gravitational potential energy.
c) Chemical potential energy is converted into thermal energy.
Which type of bond is formed when valence electrons are shared between two atoms? a) Ionic b) Mechanical c) Covalent d) Metallic
c) Covalent
Which subatomic particle is located outside the nucleus? a) Proton b) Neutron c) Electron d) Ion
c) Electron
Which force causes a jet airplane to stop on a runway? a) Gravity b) Tension c) Friction d) Centripetal Force
c) Friction
Earth formed from dust and gases surrounding the sun. Which force pulled the dust and gases together to form Earth? a) Electrical b) Magnetic c) Gravitational d) Frictional
c) Gravitational
How does the greenhouse effect help trap thermal energy from the sun? a) Greenhouse gases absorb visible light reflected by the ground. b) Greenhouse gases increase the solar energy reaching Earth. c) Greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation from the ground. d) Greenhouse gases absorb ultraviolet light that might reach the ground.
c) Greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation from the ground.
Which of the following statements is correct? a) Potential energy is the energy of speed and kinetic energy is the energy stored in an object. b) Potential energy is the energy of mass and kinetic energy is the energy of gravity. c) Kinetic energy is the energy an object has as a result of its motion, and potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or deformation.
c) Kinetic energy is the energy an object has as a result of its motion, and potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or deformation.
A utility company is considering building a power plant at a location on the Eurasian plate far from any plate boundaries. Which types of risk are present in this location? a) Low risk of volcanoes, high risk of earthquakes b) High risk of volcanoes, low risk of earthquakes c) Low risk of both volcanoes and earthquakes d) High risk of both volcanoes and earthquakes
c) Low risk of both volcanoes and earthquakes
A chocolate chip cookie is made with dough and chocolate chips. Which type of substance is a chocolate chip cookie? a) Element b) Compound c) Mixture d) Mineral
c) Mixture
What charge does a neutron have? a) Positive charge b) Negative charge c) No charge d) Variable charge
c) No charge
A mathematical model is used to predict the trajectory of a bullet fired from a gun. Which discipline of physical science is used to develop this model? a) Chemistry b) Earth science c) Physics d) Astronomy
c) Physics
Which type of wave has a longitudinal motion? a) Gamma waves b) Transverse waves c) Sound waves d) Light waves
c) Sound waves
A woman applies an upward force to a basket filled with groceries. Assume she is standing still. What will happen to the basket if the force she applies is greater than the force of gravity? a) The basket will move sideways. b) The basket will remain at the same height. c) The basket will move up. d) The basket will move down.
c) The basket will move up.
A car is moving forward and its brakes are being applied. Which of the following is true? a) The car's velocity is forward, and its acceleration is forward. b) The car's velocity is backward, and its acceleration is forward. c) The car's velocity is forward, and its acceleration is backward. d) The car's velocity is backward, and its acceleration is backward.
c) The car's velocity is forward, and its acceleration is backward.
Medical researchers want to be able to classify samples of cells by shape rapidly from the way light shining on the cells from a laser is scattered into different directions. Why might they run a computer program to calculate the scattering from different tiny egg-shaped particles for different lengths and widths instead of doing the tests on real cells? a) A model of the cells is more realistic than the real cells. b) It is messier to use real cells. c) The length, width, and height of the model cells can be adjusted more easily than with real cells. d) The calculated scattering from the model is more accurate than from real cells.
c) The length, width, and height of the model cells can be adjusted more easily than with real cells.
A woman does pushups by lowering her body to the floor using her arms and then pressing against the floor with her hands to push herself back up. Which force causes her to rise? a) The downward force of gravity that Earth exerts on the woman b) The downward force that the woman's arms exert on the ground c) The upward force that the ground exerts on the woman d) The upward force that the woman's arms exert on the ground
c) The upward force that the ground exerts on the woman
A meteorologist is studying the formation of a hurricane. Which layer of the atmosphere is the meteorologist studying? a) Stratosphere b) Mesosphere c) Troposphere d) Thermosphere
c) Troposphere
A cashier who has been handed a hundred-dollar bill may check its authenticity by holding it under a special lamp that emits electromagnetic radiation mostly at wavelengths slightly shorter than visible light. The electromagnetic radiation makes a pattern of previously invisible markings on the bill glow brightly, or fluoresce. Which kind of electromagnetic radiation does the lamp emit to produce this effect? a) Microwaves b) Infrared radiation c) Ultraviolet radiation d) X-rays
c) Ultraviolet radiation
The map shows some of Earth's tectonic plates with the directions of plate motion indicated by arrows. Which statement accurately describes these locations? a) Large earthquakes are more likely at location A than at location B. b) Neither earthquakes nor volcanoes are likely at location B. c) Volcanoes are more likely at location C than at location A. d) Both earthquakes and volcanoes are likely at location D.
c) Volcanoes are more likely at location C than at location A.
Which season is it in Japan and in Australia when Earth is in the position shown in the diagram? a) Summer in both Japan and Australia b) Winter in both Japan and Australia c) Winter in Japan and summer in Australia d) Summer in Japan and winter in Australia
c) Winter in Japan and summer in Australia
A train traveling 50 mph slows down and stops once the brakes are applied. The train's kinetic energy __________. a) is conserved b) becomes stored in the train's engine c) changes to the thermal energy of the brakes
c) changes to the thermal energy of the brakes
What type of chemical bond holds two atoms together in a molecule? a) metallic bond b) ionic bond c) covalent bond d) molecular bond
c) covalent bond
If the distance between two objects increases, the force of gravity between them __________. a) cannot be determined without knowing the masses of the objects b) increases c) decreases
c) decreases
A jet flying overhead produces sound waves that consist of __________ that is/are transported from the jet to your ears. a) air molecules b) force c) energy
c) energy
An unstretched spring is slowly lifted from street level to the top of a tall building. Compared to street level, the spring has more __________. a) elastic potential energy b) kinetic energy c) gravitational potential energy Suppose you drop the spring from the top of the building and it falls toward the street below. Neglecting nonconservative forces, such as air resistance, the kinetic energy of the spring at the instant just before it hits the street is _________. d) zero e) more than its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building f) about equal to its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building If air resistance is not neglected in the previous question, the kinetic energy of the spring at the instant just before it hits the street is __________. g) equal to its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building h) greater than its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building i) zero j) less than its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building
c) gravitational potential energy f) about equal to its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building j) less than its gravitational potential energy at the top of the building
What force caused the hydrogen, helium, and lithium formed from the big bang to collect and form stars, planets, and other objects, as well as to form the different elements than hydrogen making up these objects? a) magnetism b) inertia c) gravity d) chemical bonds
c) gravity
Which of the following is NOT a property of matter? a) takes up space and has mass b) is made up of small building blocks called atoms c) has the capacity to do work and cause change
c) has the capacity to do work and cause change
A truck increases its speed. What happens to its kinetic energy? a) it decreases b) not enough information c) it increases
c) it increases
Scientists discovered that the pressure, volume, and temperature of any gas are all related by a simple mathematical equation, to a good approximation, according to all available evidence. The mathematical equation giving this relationship is best described as a a) theory b) hypothesis c) law
c) law
What type of element tends to lose electrons? a) nonmetal b) metalloid c) metal
c) metal
The sun produces its energy in nuclear reactions. The radiation that arrives at Earth from the sun consists of __________. a) only sound waves produced by nuclear explosions in the sun b) both electromagnetic and sound waves created by nuclear explosions in the sun c) only electromagnetic waves
c) only electromagnetic waves
Satellites orbiting Earth scan the light reflected from below, and the data can then be analyzed to get information about the objects that reflected the light. This technology is called "remote sensing." For example, they can even distinguish between astroturf in a football field and real grass on the ground below, even though these look the same to the human eye. Which field of science would MOST directly devise ways to detect and analyze reflected light obtained by remote sensing? a) life science b) chemistry c) physics d) Earth science
c) physics
The speed of a sound wave depends on __________. a) wavelength b) amplitude c) the medium
c) the medium
A chemist places 250 grams of liquid water into a beaker. The volume of the liquid water is 250 milliliters. The chemist then freezes the water. After it is frozen, the ice has a volume of 273 milliliters. What is the mass of the ice? a) Between 250 grams and 273 grams b) 273 grams c) More than 250 grams d) 250 grams
d) 250 grams
The number of subatomic particles in atom 1 and atom 2 is shown in the information below. Atom 1: 13 protons, 14 neutrons, 13 electrons Atom 2: 13 protons, 14 neutrons, 10 electrons What is the relationship between these two atoms? a) Atom 1 is an ion of atom 2. b) Atom 2 is a molecule of atom 1. c) Atom 1 and atom 2 are different elements. d) Atom 2 is an ion of atom 1.
d) Atom 2 is an ion of atom 1.
Which study involves both Earth science and physics? a) Monitoring changes in phosphorus levels of a lake b) Measuring the energy produced by a generator c) Comparing the composition of crude oil from different regions d) Calculating how much energy is associated with a hurricane
d) Calculating how much energy is associated with a hurricane
Which question could be answered with a controlled experiment? a) What is the maximum distance between Earth and Jupiter? b) Do all planets have the same shape of orbit around the sun? c) What is the length of the longest river in North America? d) Does ice melt faster in an empty glass or in a glass full of water?
d) Does ice melt faster in an empty glass or in a glass full of water?
Iron ore consists mainly of iron atoms and oxygen atoms joined to each other to form iron oxide. Which branch of physical science MOST directly deals with determining the kinds of rock formations likely to contain iron ore? a) life science b) chemistry c) physics d) Earth science
d) Earth science
The trade winds are prevailing winds that blow over long distances. Their paths curve to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere. Which process causes their paths to curve? a) gravity from the sun b) gravity from the moon c) Earth orbiting the sun d) Earth spinning on its axis
d) Earth spinning on its axis
A slingshot is a Y-shaped stick with rubber bands between the prongs for shooting stones and other small projectiles. A stone is shot by first placing it in the slingshot holder, which is attached to the rubber bands. The stone and holder and then pulled back, stretching the rubber bands. When released, the stone is propelled forward and leaves the slingshot at a high speed. Which type of energy transformation occurs from the point when the rubber bands are fully stretched to when the stone leaves the slingshot? a) Chemical potential energy is converted into gravitational potential energy. b) Gravitational potential energy is converted into thermal energy. c) Elastic potential energy is converted into gravitational potential energy. d) Elastic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
d) Elastic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
A student proposes that sugar will dissolve faster in rubbing alcohol than water. The student reasons that sugar and rubbing alcohol both contain carbon so they will mix more easily. Which type of scientific idea is the student's proposal an example of? a) Theory b) Observation c) Law d) Hypothesis
d) Hypothesis
Sir Isaac Newton discovered that the force of gravity between two masses increases if the masses increase, and decreases if the distance between the masses increases. No experiments have ever contradicted this relationship. Which type of scientific statement is this? a) Inference b) Hypothesis c) Theory d) Law
d) Law
Which landform is produced when sediment is eroded from one side of a river and deposited on the other side? a) Valley b) Dune c) Waterfall d) Meander
d) Meander
Which of these are the two MOST abundant gases in our atmosphere? a) Oxygen and carbon dioxide b) Nitrogen and carbon dioxide c) Oxygen and water vapor d) Nitrogen and oxygen
d) Nitrogen and oxygen
A heavy truck and a light car travel at the same velocity side-by-side on the highway. Both drivers apply the same braking force at the same moment. What will happen to the two vehicles? a) The truck will slow down more quickly than the car. b) Both vehicles will slow down at the same rate. c) The car will slow down but the truck will continue at the same speed. d) The car will slow down more quickly than the truck.
d) The car will slow down more quickly than the truck.
You are pushing a file cabinet across a floor in a straight line at a constant speed. Which of the following can you correctly conclude about the forces acting on the file cabinet? a) The force that you are exerting on the file cabinet is greater than the force that friction is exerting on it. b) If you were to exert twice as much force on the file cabinet, it would slide across the floor at twice its original speed. c) The force that you are exerting on the file cabinet is greater than the force of friction combined with the cabinet's weight. d) The force that you are exerting on the file cabinet is equal and opposite to the force that friction is exerting on it.
d) The force that you are exerting on the file cabinet is equal and opposite to the force that friction is exerting on it.
Which of these is an example of climate change caused by natural variation? a) The increase in the Sahara desert's area from overgrazing by farm animals in North Africa b) The decrease in average humidity of the air from draining swampland in an area c) The decrease of rainfall from cutting down the trees in a rainforest d) The low rainfall that helped produce the dust bowl in the American Great Plains
d) The low rainfall that helped produce the dust bowl in the American Great Plains
The well-accepted scientific explanation for many characteristics of Earth's crust states that the crust is broken into several large plates. These plates move slowly over the mantle below because of convection and other processes. Earthquakes and volcanoes are most common at places where the plates interact. Evidence from physics, chemistry and geology supports this explanation. Which type of scientific idea is this explanation an example of? a) Law b) Hypothesis c) Prediction d) Theory
d) Theory
A geologist is doing a risk assessment for a location where the African plate is moving away from the South American plate. Which risk description must the geologist give for this location? a) There is low risk of volcanoes and high risk of large earthquakes. b) There is high risk of both volcanoes and large earthquakes. c) There is low risk of both volcanoes and large earthquakes. d) There is high risk of volcanoes and low risk of large earthquakes.
d) There is high risk of volcanoes and low risk of large earthquakes.
Airport security uses electromagnetic radiation to form images of objects inside passenger luggage. Which type of electromagnetic radiation is used in this way? a) Radio waves b) Visible light c) Ultraviolet radiation d) X-rays
d) X-rays
Which of these effects is NOT caused by gravity? a) planets orbiting a star b) solar systems being held together to form a galaxy c) hydrogen gas condensing to form a star d) a planet's atmosphere retaining thermal energy
d) a planet's atmosphere retaining thermal energy
Many cycles of water getting into a rock and expanding by freezing have produced large cracks. This is an example of __________. a) erosion b) deposition c) chemical weathering d) physical weathering
d) physical weathering
When energy changes from one type to another, the total energy __________. a) is gained b) is either lost or gained, depending on the situation c) is lost d) remains constant The above statement is known as energy __________. e) heating f) energy cooling g) the law of conservation of energy
d) remains constant g) the law of conservation of energy
In physics, work is _________. a) the force that is applied on an object b) the velocity given to an object c) the energy done on an object d) the energy transferred from one object to another via a force
d) the energy transferred from one object to another via a force
The atmospheric pressure meteorologists refer to in speaking of weather is __________. a) the difference in force from the air on opposite sides of a surface b) the weight of a cubic meter of air at sea level c) the force from the air divided by the area on which it acts d) the total force from the air acting on the area of interest
d) the total force from the air acting on the area of interest
When a cold front moves into an area with warmer air, what are the likely consequences? a) clear sunny weather as the two air masses simply mix b) no interaction between air masses as they move by c) hurricanes from the violent mixing of the air d) warm air being pushed upward, which may produce precipitation
d) warm air being pushed upward, which may produce precipitation
Which of these is the cause of a hurricane? a) air being cooled as the wind pushes it upward over a hill b) a warm front meeting a cold front c) a low pressure and high pressure area meeting d) warm ocean water producing an upflow of warm moist air
d) warm ocean water producing an upflow of warm moist air
What is the MOST abundant greenhouse gas in Earth's atmosphere? a) carbon dioxide b) ozone c) methane d) water vapor
d) water vapor
A car moves forward along a horizontal road in a straight line at constant speed. The net force on the car is __________. a) backward because friction acts on the car in the direction opposite to its motion b) downward because gravity is always acting on objects on Earth c) forward because the engine moves the car forward d) zero
d) zero
Match each rock type to the correct formation process. rock formed when molten rock (lava or magma) cools
igneous
Match each rock type to the correct formation process. rock that has been changed from its original form by being subjected to high pressure and high temperature
metamorphic
Match each rock type to the correct formation process. rock formed when sand, silt, clay, gravel, and cobbles become physically cemented or chemically fused together into hard rock
sedimentary
