weather and climate final study guide
The last interglacial period with temperatures similar to the present interglacial period was the A) 12,000 years ago (Flandrian interglacial). B) 125,000 years ago (Eemian interglacial). C) 385,00 years ago (Holstein interglacial). D) 500,000 years ago (Günz-Mindel interglacial). E) 781,000 years ago (Pastonian Stage).
B) 125,000 years ago (Eemian interglacial).
Since 1880, the years with the highest land surface temperature were A) 1910, 1940, and 1950. B) 2010, 2014, and 2015. C) 1900, 1940, and 1962. D) 1990 and 2000. E) 1985 and 1992.
B) 2010, 2014, and 2015
An estimated ________ percent of precipitation over land infiltrates the subsurface, of which ________ percent returns to the atmosphere via evapotranspiration. A) 35; 97 B) 76; 85 C) 10; 25 D) 75; 75 E) 44; 80
B) 76; 85
A system is best described as? A) mass that assumes a physical shape and occupies space. B) any set of ordered, interrelated components working as a unified whole. C) the capacity to change the motion of, or to do work on, matter. D) the point at which characteristics can no longer be maintained and a new state is adopted. E) a form of energy that is transferred between two substances at different temperatures.
B) Any set of ordered interrelated components working as a unified whole.
Which of the following accurately describes 18O/16O ratios of the world's oceans? A) The 16O/18O ratio is low during colder temperatures because temperatures are too low for evaporation to be effective and both isotopes remain in the ocean. B) During periods of colder temperatures, 16O is locked up in snow and ice and 18O concentrations are highest in the oceans. C) A higher ratio of oceanic 16O to 18O, the colder the temperatures because 18O will have been mostly evaporated from the oceans. D) Neither the 16O nor 18O isotopes are common in water, so when either is present, it shows a disequilibrium in normal climatic conditions. E) Because 18O evaporates more readily than 16O, the oceans have a higher relative abundance of 16O during warm periods and a more balanced ration when evaporation is less.
B) During periods of colder temperatures, 16O is locked up in snow and ice and 18O concentrations are highest in the oceans.
Which of the following describes the pressure gradient force? A) It exerts a virtually uniform force on the atmosphere. B) It drives air from areas of higher to lower barometric pressure. C) It decreases with height above the surface. D) It causes apparent deflection of winds from a straight path. E) It is the only force acting on atmospheric flows in the upper troposphere.
B) It drives air from areas of higher to lower barometric pressure.
Which of the following is not true about electricity generated by wind? A) Turbines have been installed in over 81 countries. B) It is non-renewable and has been linked to adverse human health effects. C) There are numerous economic and social benefits associated with wind energy. D) It is cost-competitive with electricity generated by coal, oil, and nuclear. E) It could help reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
B) It is non-renewable and has been linked to adverse human health effects.
Which of the following is true regarding the depletion of ozone in the ozonosphere? A) The depletion is restricted to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. B) It results from chemical reactions with chlorine derived from CFCs. C) Ozone depletion is of little concern to humans, though it can damage plants. D) The notion that ozone is being depleted as a result of human activity has little scientific evidence to support it. E) It results from the burning of fossil fuels
B) It results from chemical reactions with chlorine derived from CFCs.
________ are the strongest thunderstorms. A) Multicell lines B) Supercells C) Single-cells D) Multicell clusters E) derechos.
B) Supercells
Which of the following is true of chlorofluorocarbons? A) The CFC molecules react with ultraviolet light to release fluorine which then destroys ozone. B) The CFC molecules react with ultraviolet light to release chlorine which then destroys ozone. C) The CFC molecules react with ultraviolet light to release carbon which then destroys ozone. D) CFCs production will be phased out by 2026, but still continues in China and the U.S. E) Most of the CFC-induced ozone destruction is occurring near the equator, rather than near the poles.
B) The CFC molecules react with ultraviolet light to release chlorine which then destroys ozone.
On the March equinox A) all latitudes on Earth except the equator experience unequal daylengths. B) the Sun's direct rays strike perpendicular to the Tropic of Capricorn(23.5° S). C) the subsolar point is at the South Pole. D) all latitudes between the poles experience equal daylength. E) the Arctic Circle is completely within the circle of illumination.
all latitudes between the poles experience equal daylength
The letters A.M. stand for A) ante majolica. B) after morning. C) after meridian. D) ante meridiem. E) after midnight.
ante meridiem.
On average, solar maximums occur every ________. A) 300 years B) 182 days C) 32 years D) 365 days E) 11 years
11 years
If it is 10:00 A.M. in Miami, Florida (Eastern time zone), what time is it in Los Angeles, California, located 3 time zones to the west in the Pacific Time zone? A) 2 P.M. B) 1 P.M. C) 12 P.M. D) 7 A.M. E) 8 A.M.
7 A.M.
Water scarcity conditions exist when people have less than ________ of water per person per year. A) 1000 m2 B) 1700 m2 C) 2000 m2 D) 2500 m2 E) 3000 m2
A) 1000 m2
Which of the following is false regarding wave-cyclone development, intensification, and strengthening? A) A midlatitude cyclone, from birth to maturity to dissolution, takes an average of a month. B) They can be 1,600 km (1,000 mi.) wide. C) The process can occur along the polar front. D) A midlatitude cyclone involves two fronts and three air masses. E) Cyclogenesis is the name for this process.
A) A midlatitude cyclone, from birth to maturity to dissolution, takes an average of a month.
Which of the following is not true of the wind? A) Air blows from regions of hotter air to regions of colder air. B) It is initiated by the pressure gradient force. C) The direction of flow can be affected by the rotation of Earth. D) Winds are named based on the direction from which they blow. E) It blows from regions of high pressure to regions of low pressure.
A) Air blows from regions of hotter air to regions of colder air.
Which of the following is true of gases in the heterosphere? A) Hydrogen and helium occur at the top of the heterosphere and oxygen and nitrogen dominate in the lower heterosphere. B) Oxygen and nitrogen occur at the top of the heterosphere and hydrogen and helium dominate in the lower heterosphere. C) The hydrogen, helium, oxygen and nitrogen are well mixed. D) Oxygen occurs at the top, followed in descending order by hydrogen, helium, and nitrogen. E) Nitrogen occurs at the top, followed in descending order by helium, oxygen and hydrogen.
A) Hydrogen and helium occur at the top of the heterosphere and oxygen and nitrogen dominate in the lower heterosphere
Which of the following is not true of carbon dioxide? A) It occurs in large amounts in the atmosphere relative to other gases. B) Present levels are higher than at any time in the past 800,000 years. C) Overall, atmospheric CO2 has increased by 16% from 1992 to 2012. D) The steady increase of atmospheric CO2 is primarily from fossil fuel burning. E) It is critically important in regulating the temperature of the planet.
A) It occurs in large amounts in the atmosphere relative to other gases.
Hurricane ________ was the most expensive hurricane in the United States history. A) Katrina B) Camille C) Mitch D) Sandy E) Andrew
A) Katrina
Following the urban heat island profile from rural areas to a typical downtown urban area, which of the following is true? A) On average, urban areas are 1 to 3°C higher than nearby rural areas. B) Highest late afternoon temperatures occur in suburban residential areas. C) Commercial and urban residential areas have the highest late afternoon temperatures. D) The temperature variations between urban and rural environments are negligible. E) Large urban parks do not mitigate against the urban heat island.
A) On average, urban areas are 1 to 3°C higher than nearby rural areas.
Which of the following accurately describes 13C/12C ratios of plant materials and their use in climate reconstructions? A) Scientists can determine if conditions were wetter or drier, warmer or cooler, by analyzing the ratio of 12C to 13C. B) 12C is very rare in nature. When it does appear in plant material, it is indicative of climate anomalies. By measuring the 13C/12C ratios, scientists can determine whether the plants were alive during normal or anomalous conditions. C) 13C is an unstable isotope, which decays at a constant rate. This is used to date plant material, which can then be used as a proxy for temperature and climate conditions at that time. D) By analyzing the ratio of 13C/12C in marine phytoplankton, the source of the water in which the organisms resided can be determined. E) Carbon is such a rare element on Earth that the 13C/12C ratios help scientists deduce glacial and interglacial cycles.
A) Scientists can determine if conditions were wetter or drier, warmer or cooler, by analyzing the ratio of 12C to 13C.
The 16O evaporates ________ than 18O, and condenses ________. A) more easily; less easily B) less easily; less easily C) more rapidly; more slowly D) less easily; more easily E) more easily; more easily
A) more easily; less easily
Which of the following is correct regarding Arctic sea ice? A) Since 1979, summer sea ice minimum extent and winter sea ice maximum extent have declined. B) In the summer, most to all sea ice melts, only to refreeze in the winter. However, less water has been refreezing over the past decade. C) Because of high latitudes, sea ice remains throughout the year. However, for the past 30 years, the extent of sea ice has diminished. D) Until recently, seasonal variations in sea ice extent were rare. E) Summer sea ice reached its minimum extent in 2001 and has gradually increased since then.
A) Since 1979, summer sea ice minimum extent and winter sea ice maximum extent have declined.
Which of the following is true regarding humid continental hot-summer and humid continental mild-summer climates? A) Snowfall is notably heavier in humid continental mild-summer climates than in humid continental hot-summer climates and plays an important role in soil moisture recharge. B) Agriculture is not feasible in humid continental mild-summer climates due to the cooler weather, whereas it is very important in humid continental hot-summer climates. C) Humid continental mild-summer climates are located further equatorward than humid continental hot-summer climates. D) Overall, humid continental mild-summer climates receive more precipitation than humid continental hot-summer. E) The humid continental hot-summer and mild-summer climates are influenced by a single air mass year-round.
A) Snowfall is notably heavier in humid continental mild-summer climates than in humid continental hot-summer climates and plays an important role in soil moisture recharge.
Which is not true of Derechos? A) The winds travel in a curved path. B) They occur mainly from May to August in the U.S. Midwest. C) They occur mainly in the Midwest and Southeast. D) They can pose a threat to human property and life. E) They are caused by the same conditions that cause thunderstorms and tornadoes.
A) The winds travel in a curved path.
Which of the following is not true of marine west-coast climates? A) These climates experience very cold winters due to high latitude (about 45° to 55° north). B) Weather systems forming along the polar front and maritime polar air masses move into the region throughout the year. C) They are dominated by mP air masses. D) Coastal fog is part of the moderating marine influence. E) The air masses in this region are unstable.
A) These climates experience very cold winters due to high latitude (about 45° to 55° north).
Which of the following is true regarding cirrostratus clouds? A) They form a veil of ice crystals that creates a halo around the Moon or Sun. B) They are uniform, featureless, and grey like high fog. C) They are sharply outlined, and billowy. D) They are high altitude clouds with a puffy appearance. E) The Sun's outline is just visible through these clouds.
A) They form a veil of ice crystals that creates a halo around the Moon or Sun.
Air masses which develop over Canada are examples of ________ air masses. A) cP B) mT C) mP D) A E) cT
A) cP
Milankovitch cycles refer to A) changes in Earth-Sun relationships, namely the Earth's orbit around the sun, the Earth's axial rotation, and the Earth's axial tilt. B) cyclical changes in solar irradiance caused by increases and decreases in sunspot activity. C) tectonic changes in continental positions. D) topographic changes from orogeny, erosion, and mass wasting. E) increases and decreases in atmospheric gases and aerosols, primarily caused by natural activity such as volcanic activity and changes in net primary productivity.
A) changes in Earth-Sun relationships, namely the Earth's orbit around the sun, the Earth's axial rotation, and the Earth's axial tilt.
Of the following greenhouse gases, which have actually decreased in atmospheric concentrations during the past 30 years? A) chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) B) nitrous oxides (NO) C) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) D) carbon dioxide (CO2) E) methane (CH4)
A) chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
The study of the climate and its variability, including long-term weather patterns over time and space and the controls thereof is A) climatology. B) paleontology. C) weatherology. D) weather science. E) meteorology.
A) climatology.
A thunderstorm is associated with ________ clouds. A) cumulonimbus B) altostratus C) lenticular D) cirrostratus E) stratocumulus
A) cumulonimbus
The term "orographic" refers to A) forced uplift due to the presence of a physical barrier. B) lifting along the edges of conflicting air masses. C) vertical lifting due to converging air masses. D) convection stimulated principally by local heating. E) air mass modification and the formation of secondary air masses.
A) forced uplift due to the presence of a physical barrier.
The science that specifically attempts to determine Earth's shape and size by surveys and mathematical means is called? A) geodesy. B) geography. C) astronomy. D) cartography. E) geology.
A) geodesy.
Ice pellets larger than 0.5 cm (0.20 in) that form within a cumulonimbus cloud are known as A) hail. B) sleet. C) frost.D) rain. E) snow.
A) hail.
Which of the following is correctly matched? A) insolation - shortwave radiation - UV, visible, and near infrared B) terrestrial radiation - shortwave radiation - thermal infrared radiation C) terrestrial radiation - shortwave radiation - UV, visible, and near infrared D) insolation - longwave radiation - thermal infrared radiation E) both insolation and terrestrial radiation - shortwave radiation - UV, visible, and near infrared
A) insolation - shortwave radiation - UV, visible, and near infrared
Lines on a temperature map connecting points of equal temperature is called an A) isotherm. B) isohyet. C) isobaths. D) isobar. E) isohaline.
A) isotherm.
Which of the following is not important in shaping ocean currents? A) land-sea breezes B) configuration of continents and the ocean floor C) the frictional drag of winds D) the Coriolis force and water density differences E) density differences caused by temperature and salinity
A) land-sea breezes
The specific heat of land is ________ than water and, therefore, land heats more ________ than water. A) lower; quickly B) higher; quickly C) lower; slowly D) higher; slowly E) equal; evenly
A) lower; quickly
A drought defined by the degree of dryness as compared to a regional average and the duration of dryness is a(n) ________ drought. A) meteorological B) agricultural C) hydrological D) socioeconomic E) climatic
A) meteorological
Earth's oceans possess A) ninety-seven percent of Earth's waters. B) about the same amount of water as is in the atmosphere. C) fifty percent of Earth's waters. D) most of the fresh water on Earth. E) a small fraction of all water on Earth.
A) ninety-seven percent of Earth's waters.
If earth did not rotate, air would flow? A) perpendicular to the isobars, i.e., straight across the isobars. b) parallel to the isobars. c) in a circular pattern. d) to the right of its direction of motion in the northern hemisphere. e) to the left of its direction of motion in the northern hemisphere.
A) perpendicular to the isobars, i.e., straight across the isobars.
Scientists use ________ to study past climates, using ________ to reconstruct climates that extend back further than our present instrumentation allows. A) proxy methods; climate proxies B) computer models; algorithms C) indirect evidence; conjecture D) direct measurements; historical records E) inference; supposition
A) proxy methods; climate proxies
During the last century, sea level A) rose 17 to 21 cm (6.7 to 8.3 in.). B) remained fairly constant, though some areas (such at the Atlantic coast) experienced moderate rises. C) rose 30 to 46 cm (11.8 to 18 in.). D) dropped 10 to 13 cm (3.93 to 5.12 in.). E) dropped 3 to 5 cm (1.18 to 3.15 in.).
A) rose 17 to 21 cm (6.7 to 8.3 in.)
Factors that influence dry climates include all the following except A) seasonal influence of the ITCZ. B) cool, stabilizing ocean currents along the western margins of continents. C) location in the rain shadow of mountains. D) location in continental interiors. E) dry, subsiding air associated with subtropical high pressure systems.
A) seasonal influence of the ITCZ. B) cool, stabilizing ocean currents along the western margins of continents.
The area which contains the volume of subsurface water stored in the soil that is accessible to plant roots is the A) soil-moisture zone. B) gravitational zone. C) water table. D) zone of saturation. E) base flow
A) soil-moisture zone
Which of the following has a negative radiative forcing (i.e. cools the planet)? A) stratospheric ozone (O3) B) carbon dioxide (CO2) C) methane (CH4) D) chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) E) nitrous oxides (N2O)
A) stratospheric ozone (O3)
Which of the following is not associated with the Asian monsoon pattern? A) summer low pressure zones over the ocean and high pressure zone over land B) high amounts of precipitation, including record-breaking rainfall C) shifting migration of the ITCZ bringing moisture-laden air to the area during the summer D) hot moisture-laden winds flowing towards and uplifted by the Himalayas E) unequal heating between the Asian landmass and Indian Ocean
A) summer low pressure zones over the ocean and high pressure zone over land
During the occluded stage of a midlatitude cyclone, A) the cold front overruns the slower moving warm front. B) the cold front and warm front are clearly and distinctly separated from one another. C) very little precipitation occurs due to lack of uplift mechanisms. D) cyclogenesis begins. E) air begins to be uplifted along the cold front.
A) the cold front overruns the slower moving warm front
The lower the pH of a liquid, A) the more acidic it is. B) the more basic (alkaline) it is. C) the more neutral it is. D) the more ammonia present. E) the more chemical reactive it is.
A) the more acidic it is.
Annual temperature ranges near South Georgia Island are low despite their high latitude because A) they are influenced by maritime environments. B) high elevation mitigates against the extreme cold events that otherwise occur at these latitudes. C) higher than average precipitation for the climate type mitigates against the extreme cold weather. D) the climate is dominated by dry, frigid air masses year-round. E) the island is oriented on the sunward side of a large topographic feature.
A) they are influenced by maritime environments. B) high elevation mitigates against the extreme cold events that otherwise occur at these latitudes.
In terms of total land and ocean area, which of the following climate classifications is the most extensive at 36% of Earth's surface? A) tropical climates B) microthermal climates C) mesothermal climates D) dry climates E) polar climates
A) tropical climates
Which two gases are good absorbers of longwave radiation emitted from Earth? A) water vapor and carbon dioxide B) nitrogen and oxygen C) helium and argon D) oxygen and hydrogen E) ozone and dust
A) water vapor and carbon dioxide
A tornado classified as an EF-5 would have A) wind speeds greater than 322 kmph (200 mph) with incredible damage. B) wind speeds between 178-217 kmph (111-135 mph) with considerable damage. C) wind speeds between 218-266 kmph (136-165 mph) with severe damage. D) wind speeds less than 137 kmph (85 mph) with light damage. E) wind speeds between 138-177 kmph (86-110 mph) with moderate damage.
A) wind speeds greater than 322 kmph (200 mph) with incredible damage.
If surface winds were influenced only by the pressure gradient force and Coriolis force (i.e., without the frictional force), A) winds would flow parallel to isobars and at high rates of speed. B) wind speed and direction would be reduced. C) winds would flow in a straight line from areas of higher to lower pressure. D) the effects would vary depending on surface texture. E) there would be no winds at all.
A) winds would flow parallel to isobars and at high rates of speed.
The subsurface area in which all pore spaces are completely filled with water is known as the A) zone of saturation. B) zone of aeration. C) soil-moisture zone. D) water table. E) gravitational zone.
A) zone of saturation
How have scientists used isotopic analysis to determine the rise of atmospheric CO2 is mostly from the burning of fossil fuels? A) Both coal and oil contain a high proportion of 14C. By analyzing, 14C /12C ratios, scientists have been able to determine the source based on this fact. B) The low proportions of 13C and 14C within atmospheric CO2 indicates the source is fossil carbon. C) The relative low amount of 12C in atmospheric carbon demonstrates that the carbon dates from about the 1800s or later. D) Since 14C is an unstable isotope, scientists have dated the atmospheric carbon to the period since the Industrial Revolution. E) 14C concentrations are much higher in urban areas than in rural areas, indicating fossil fuels must have a higher 14C / 12C ratio than carbon from other sources.
B) The low proportions of 13C and 14C within atmospheric CO2 indicates the source is fossil carbon.
On which one of the following projections do great circle routes appear as straight lines? A) any conic projection B) a gnomonic projection C) Winkel-Tripel D) Goode's homolosine projection E) Mercator projection
B) a gnomonic projection
The ozonosphere is critical to life because it A) strengthens GPS signals that must pass through it. B) absorbs most ultraviolet wavelengths. C) absorbs visible light wavelengths. D) produces the auroras. E) affects temperatures
B) absorbs most ultraviolet wavelengths.
The western intensification causes water to pile up _______, forcing water to flow ______ in strong currents. A) at the equator; eastward and westward. B) against the eastern shore of continents; northward and southward. C) along western shore of continents; downward, then eastward. D) around the subtropical highs; in all directions. E) at the tropics; equatorward
B) against the eastern shore of continents; northward and southward.
Which of the following is a high altitude cloud? A) cumulus B) cirrus C) altocumulus D) stratus E) nimbostratus
B) cirrus
Air flowing from different directions to an area of low pressure, coming together, and being displaced upward is an example of ________ lifting. A) radiative B) convergent C) convectional D) orographic E) frontal
B) convergent
Heat always flow from an area of ________ temperature to an area of ________ temperature. A) high; higher B) higher; lower C) low; lower D) moderate; extreme E) lower; higher
B) higher; lower
Which of the following is not cited as a factor in helping to reduce air pollution? A) use of more alternative, clean energy sources such as wind and solar B) increased use of coal as an energy source C) increased vehicle fuel-efficiency D) stricter air emission regulations E) alternative and public transportation
B) increased use of coal as an energy source
An image that appears near the horizon when layers of air are at different temperatures and densities is a(n) ________ and an example of ________. A) reflection; refraction. B) mirage; refraction. C) reflection; albedo. D) Mie scatter; refraction. E) Rayleigh scatter; albedo.
B) mirage; refraction.
Seasonally shifting wind systems associated with the annual cycle of returning precipitation are known as A) katabatic winds. B) monsoons. C) Santa Ana winds. D) chinook winds. E) sea breezes.
B) monsoons
General Circulation Models (GCMs) A) typically have very fine resolution (e.g., 30 m). B) offer scenarios of future global warming based on societal choices. C) predict specific future temperatures based on various scenarios. D) are primarily two dimensional models for several weather forecasting. E) can currently only represent atmospheric conditions, though future models will incorporate ocean circulation.
B) offer scenarios of future global warming based on societal choices.
As permafrost thaws, increased microbial activity in the soils results in the release of more carbon to the atmosphere. More carbon in the atmosphere accelerated the greenhouse effect. This is known as the A) CO2-weathering feedback. B) permafrost-carbon feedback. C) wildfire-carbon feedback. D) water-vapor feedback. E) ice-albedo feedback.
B) permafrost-carbon feedback.
The heterosphere is the layer of the atmosphere in which the gases are ________ because of ________. A) well mixed; gravity causes gases of different weight to diffuse randomly B) poorly mixed; gravity causes gases of different weight to separate into layers C) well mixed; thermal motions (i.e., convection) D) poorly mixed; thermal motions (i.e., convection) E) moderately mixed due to both thermal motion and separation by gravity
B) poorly mixed; gravity causes gases of different weight to separate into layers
Prior to making landfall, Hurricane Sandy's characteristics changed and it was classified as a(n) A) tropical depression. B) post-tropical cyclone. C) typhoon. D) midlatitude anticyclone. E) easterly wave
B) post-tropical cyclone.
Isolated, short-lived thunderstorms fueled by the rapid upward movement of warm, moist air are known as ________ thunderstorms. A) derecho B) single-cell C) multi-cell clusters D) supercell E) squall line
B) single-cell
The Little Ice Age likely resulted from A) changes in Earth's orbital shape (eccentricity). B) solar activity, volcanic activity and/or multiyear changes in global circulation. C) changes in Earth's axial tilt (obliquity). D) a cooling of the Gulf Stream from rapid glacial melt in Greenland. E) the Pleistocene megafauna extinction.
B) solar activity, volcanic activity and/or multiyear changes in global circulation.
Scientists called the new phenomenon, witnessed in May 2009, of straight line, 100 mph winds with an eyelike structure and a path of destruction 100 miles wide a A) squall line. B) super derecho. C) supercell. D) macroburst. E) wind shear.
B) super derecho.
Regions of windless, hot, dry air in the subtropical highs are colloquially known as A) Hadley cells. B) the horse latitudes. C) ITCZ. D) westerlies. E) the doldrums
B) the horse latitudes
The winds converging at the equatorial low are known as A) westerlies. B) trade winds. C) polar easterlies. D) doldrums. E) jet streams.
B) trade winds.
Along the periphery of hot deserts, where shifting subtropical high pressure cells create a distinct summer-dry and winter-wet pattern, one finds A) Mediterranean climates. B) tropical, subtropical hot steppe climates. C) tropical monsoon climates. D) marine west coast climates. E) humid subtropical hot-summer climates
B) tropical, subtropical hot steppe climates.
An aneroid barometer A) is a hypothetical instrument for measuring air pressure. B) uses a chamber that expands or contracts with changes in air pressure. C) uses a meter long tube for measuring air pressure. D) is placed in a white louvered box. E) requires the use of mercury.
B) uses a chamber that expands or contracts with changes in air pressure.
A lower 18O/16O ratio in ocean sediment cores indicates a(n) ________ climate, whereas a higher 18O/16O ratio indicates a(n) ________ climate. A) cooler; cold B) warmer; cooler C) imbalanced; balanced D) stable; unstable E) cooler; warmer
B) warmer; cooler
The residence time of methane (CH4) in the atmosphere is A) 500 years. B) approximately 90 days. C) 12 years. D) 50 to 200 years. E) 45 days.
C) 12 years.
According to models developed by NOAA, given the extreme, global sea level may rise as high as A) 0.5 m (1.6 ft). B) 0.2 m (0.7 ft). C) 2.0 m (6.6 ft). D) 3.2 m (10.5 m). E) 1.2 m (3.9 ft).
C) 2.0 m (6.6 ft).
Radiocarbon dating of organic material may provide a climate record for up to ________ years before present. A) 150,000 B) 75,000 C) 50,000 D) 25,000 E) 10,000
C) 50,000
Fossil fuel burning accounts for over ________ percent of CO2 emissions. A) 50 B) 85 C) 70 D) 10 E) 20
C) 70
Water covers approximately ________ of Earth's surface. A) 10 percent B) 90 percent C) 71 percent D) 50 percent E) 25 percent
C) 71 percent
With respect to air, water, and material resources, what is true? A) A forest is an open system. B) A forest is a closed system. C) A forest is an open system in terms of air, but closed in terms of material resources. D) A forest is an open system in terms of water, but closed in terms of energy resources. E) A forest cannot be considered either on open or closed system.
C) A forest is an open system in terms of air, but closed in terms of material resources.
Which of the following is true of 16O and 18O? A) Only the 16O isotope occurs in water molecules. B) Only the 18O isotope occurs in water molecules. C) Both the 16O and 18O isotopes occur in water molecules. D) Neither the 16O nor 18O isotopes occur in water molecules. E) The 16O and 18O isotopes are so radically different they are not used in paleoclimate reconstructions.
C) Both the 16O and 18O isotopes occur in water molecules.
When water evaporates from a surface, which of the following occurs? A) Energy is released to the surface. B) Energy flows into the ground by conduction. C) Energy is stored within the water. D) Heat is transferred back and forth between the air and surface. E) The surface is warmed.
C) Energy is stored within the water
________ is an example of an environmental satellite used in weather forecasting and analysis. A) Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) B) Quickbird C) Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES) D) SPOT Gen 3 E) Landsat 8
C) Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES)
Which of the following is not true about the Milky Way Galaxy in which we live? A) It is a spiral-shaped galaxy. B) It contains approximately 300 billion stars. C) It is the largest galaxy in the universe. D) It is one of millions of galaxies in the universe. E) A supermassive black hole sits in the galactic center.
C) It is the largest galaxy in the universe.
The ________ is a graph which plots monthly averages of CO2 concentrations since 1958. A) PETM B) MCA C) Keeling Curve D) Younger Dryas E) Maunder minimum
C) Keeling Curve
The 1997 legally binding international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is known as the A) Montreal Protocol. B) CITES. C) Kyoto Protocol. D) Clean Air Act. E) ICRW.
C) Kyoto Protocol.
Given a cP air mass and cT air mass with the same relative humidity, which air mass would have higher specific humidity? A) The cP air mass would have the higher specific humidity. B) The specific humidity of both would be the same because their relative humidities are the same. C) The cT air mass would have the higher specific humidity. D) It is impossible to say what would usually be true of their specific humidities. E) Specific humidity is not a relevant measure of air masses.
C) The cT air mass would have the higher specific humidity.
Which of the following is true of thermohaline circulation? A) The circulation has a definitive beginning and end, at the equator and poles, respectively. B) Thermohaline currents are largely wind driven. C) Thermohaline currents are deep currents caused by differences in temperature and salinity. D) Due to their depths, thermohaline currents carry limited volumes of water. E) Thermohaline currents travel at greater speeds than surface currents.
C) Thermohaline currents are deep currents caused by differences in temperature and salinity
Which of the following possesses all of Earth's properties of area, shape, direction, proximity, and distance, correctly? A) Mercator projection B) Winkel-Tripel C) a world globe D) Robinson projection E) Albers equal-area conic projection
C) a world globe
Dry, warm downslope winds occurring on the leeward side of Cascades and Rockies are calledA) mistral. B) monsoons. C) chinooks. D) taku. E) bora.
C) chinooks.
On a cold, windy day, the air feels ________ because the wind ________. A) warmer; disperses clouds, allowing more sunlight to reach the ground. B) warmer; increases latent energy release through increased condensation. C) colder; increases evaporative heat loss from our skin. D) warmer; mitigates against the cold temperatures. E) colder; increases the cooling effect of the air
C) colder; increases evaporative heat loss from our skin.
The intertropical convergence zone is characterized by A) convergence and subsidence of cold surface air. B) divergence and uplift of warm surface air. C) convergence and uplift of warm surface air. D) low rainfall and cool conditions. E) divergence and subsidence of cold surface air.
C) convergence and uplift of warm surface air.
Changes in the Earth's elliptical orbit around the Sun is called A) obliquity. B) precession. C) eccentricity. D) declination. E) inclination
C) eccentricity.
Which part of a hurricane consists of dry, subsiding air? A) eye wall (collar clouds) B) easterly waves C) eye D) trade winds E) spiral bands
C) eye
The figure shows examples of A) wind movement based on the frictional force only. B) winds influenced by the pressure gradient force only. C) geostrophic winds. D) a high pressure center (anticyclone). E) winds influenced by the Coriolis force only.
C) geostrophic winds.
Water vapor in the atmosphere is called A) deposition. B) water. C) humidity. D) transpiration. E) sublimation.
C) humidity
The auroras in the upper atmosphere are caused by A) coronal mass ejections entering the atmosphere at lower latitudes (below 30°). B) sun spot activity and gravitational accretion. C) interaction of the solar wind and upper layers of Earth's atmosphere. D) UV and visible light interaction with the asthenosphere. E) stratospheric ozone depletion
C) interaction of the solar wind and upper layers of Earth's atmosphere
The high temperatures in the thermosphere occur because A) methane is such an effective greenhouse gas. B) infrared radiation from the ground heats this layer more than any other layer. C) it is in direct contact with high energy solar radiation. D) carbon dioxide has accumulated to very high levels in this layer. E) high intensity solar radiation causes strong chemical reactions with ozone, and this heats the layer to very high temperatures.
C) it is in direct contact with high energy solar radiation
The two most abundant gases in the atmosphere are A) carbon dioxide and argon. B) water vapor and carbon dioxide. C) nitrogen and oxygen. D) nitrogen and water vapor. E) oxygen and carbon dioxide.
C) nitrogen and oxygen.
The science that studies Earth's past climates is A) climate change science. B) dendrochronology. C) paleoclimatology. D) limnology E) meteorology.
C) paleoclimatology.
Katabatic winds are A) usually weaker than local winds, but significant due to the area they cover. B) another name for mountain-valley breezes. C) regional-scale, gravity-driven winds that bring high density air downslope. D) unrelated to pressure differences. E) localized winds associated with sea-breezes.
C) regional-scale, gravity-driven winds that bring high density air downslope.
The IPCC Fifth Assessment Report concludes A) the observed climatic changes of the past half century are similar to changes that have occurred throughout the past couple hundreds of years. B) that while climate change is occurring, it is largely natural climate fluctuations. C) scientists are 95 to 100% certain that human activities are the primary cause of present climate change. D) no consensus exists on whether current climate change is natural or anthropogenic. E) much uncertainty still remains related to the warming of the climate.
C) scientists are 95 to 100% certain that human activities are the primary cause of present climate change.
Capital letters in air mass names reflect the ________ characteristics of the air mass A) relative humidity B) moisture C) temperature D) wind E) cloud
C) temperature
The highest temperatures in the atmosphere occur in the A) homosphere. B) troposphere. C) thermosphere. D) stratosphere. E) mesosphere.
C) thermosphere
Which atmospheric zone supports the biosphere and is the region of principle weather activity? A) thermosphere B) exosphere C) troposphere D) mesosphere E) stratosphere
C) troposphere
The portion of air pressure exerted by water vapor is the A) absolute humidity. B) lifting condensation point. C) vapor pressure. D) dew point. E) psychrometer.
C) vapor pressure.
The process of sublimation would result in A) frost. B) snow. C) water vapor. D) ice. E) liquid water.
C) water vapor
As air temperatures increase, evaporation increases. Warmer temperatures also increase the capacity to absorb water vapor. More water vapor in the atmosphere accelerates the greenhouse effect. This is known as the A) ice-albedo feedback. B) wildfire-carbon feedback. C) water-vapor feedback. D) permafrost-carbon feedback. E) CO2-weathering feedback.
C) water-vapor feedback.
If the temperature at the surface of Earth (at sea level) is 100°F, what is the temperature at 2000 feet if the average lapse rate is 3.5°F/1000 feet? A) 103.5°F B) 96.5°F C) 107°F D) 93°F E) 89.5°F
D) 93°F
An average raindrop consists of approximately ________ moisture droplets. A) 500,000 B) 1 trillion C) 20 D) 1 million E) 2000
D) 1 million
If the temperature at the surface of Earth (at sea level) is 40°C, what is the temperature at 2000 m if the normal lapse rate is 6.4°C/1000 m? A) 52.8°C B) 46.4°C C) 21.8°C D) 27.2°C E) 33.6°C
D) 27.2°C
Earth's average overall albedo is A) 69 percent. B) 75 percent. C) 10 percent. D) 31 percent. E) 51 percent.
D) 31 percent.
________ is a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures, usually in association with humid weather A) Sensible heat B) Wind chill C) A temperature anomaly D) A heat wave E) Apparent temperature
D) A heat wave
Which of the following is false? A) Air pressure decreases with increasing altitude. B) Over half of the total mass of the atmosphere lies below 5.5 km (3.14 mi). C) The atmosphere exerts an average force of 1 kg/cm2 at sea level. D) Air pressure decreases through the troposphere though increases in the stratosphere. E) Air molecules exert air pressure through their motion, size, and number
D) Air pressure decreases through the troposphere though increases in the stratosphere.
________ is the general term for the outdoor temperature as it is perceived by humans. A) Wind chill B) Perceptive heat C) Sensible heat D) Apparent temperature E) Latent heat
D) Apparent temperature
Which of the following is not true? A) The axis through Earth's two poles points just slightly off Polaris. B) Throughout the year, Earth's axis maintains the same alignment relative to the plane of the ecliptic. C) The axial tilt ranges roughly between 22° and 24.5° over a 41,000 year cycle. D) During the winter months, Earth's axis is aligned towards Southern Cross. E) Earth's axis is tilted 23.5° relative to the plane of the ecliptic.
D) During the winter months, Earth's axis is aligned towards Southern Cross
What conditions would one expect to find in Quito, Ecuador, located at 0° 15' N, 78° 35' S? A) 24 hours of darkness during the June Solstice. B) The subsolar point directly overhead at noon on June 21st. C) The subsolar point directly overhead at noon on December 21st. D) Equal daylengths throughout the year. E) Long, dark winter nights.
D) Equal daylengths throughout the year.
Which of the following is predicted to occur in the 21st Century as a result of climate change? A) Less lake-effect snowfall due to warming waters. B) An increase in global snowfall due to an increase in atmospheric moisture. C) Decrease in extreme snowfall events (blizzards). D) Increased frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones due to increased ocean temperatures. E) A decrease in thunderstorm intensity and, as a result, fewer tornadoes.
D) Increased frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones due to increased ocean temperatures.
________ is used in a barometer because ________. A) Alcohol; it will not freeze in extreme cold weather B) Water; it is denser than mercury C) Water; it is liquid at normal air temperature D) Mercury; it is denser than water E) Mercury; it will rise more than water will under the same air pressure
D) Mercury; it is denser than water
Why is a greenhouse an imperfect analogy for how the Earth's atmosphere behaves? A) It is exceedingly rare for a greenhouse to contain carbon dioxide like the Earth's atmosphere contains. B) The glass of a greenhouse is designed to allow transmission of both longwave and shortwave radiation, whereas certain atmospheric constituents only allow transmission of shortwave radiation. C) A greenhouse is designed to artificially warm an area and has built in ventilation, whereas there is no such ventilation system in the Earth-atmosphere system. D) Passage of longwave radiation to space is delayed by certain atmospheric constituents, but not trapped like an actual greenhouse. E) A greenhouse allows longwave radiation to escape and mix with the surrounding air, unlike the Earth's atmosphere.
D) Passage of longwave radiation to space is delayed by certain atmospheric constituents, but not trapped like an actual greenhouse.
Which of the following is incorrect? A) Human activities have increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. B) Carbon dioxide (CO2 ) concentrations are growing more quickly today than is seen throughout most of the long-term climate record. C) Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2 ) causes warming temperatures. D) Scientists can say with 100% certainty that current climate change can be solely attributed to anthropogenic causes. E) The rise of global temperatures causes global climate change.
D) Scientists can say with 100% certainty that current climate change can be solely attributed to anthropogenic causes.
The Medieval Climate Anomaly was A) a global cooling trend that lasted from approximately 1250 to 1850. B) higher than average temperatures throughout Asia, but mostly affecting China, that occurred during the Classical Chinese Medieval Period. C) the current period of unprecedented warming that has occurred since 1980. D) a mild climate episode that lasted from 800 to 1200 and involved warmer than normal conditions in the North Atlantic region (e.g. Greenland and Iceland). E) a warming trend that occurred from the Last Glacial Maximum until the Little Ice Age (1250).
D) a mild climate episode that lasted from 800 to 1200 and involved warmer than normal conditions in the North Atlantic region (e.g. Greenland and Iceland).
The Maunder minimum during the Little Ice Age has been linked to A) changes in Earth's orbital shape (eccentricity). B) a cooling of the Gulf Stream from rapid glacial melt in Greenland. C) changes in Earth's axial tilt (obliquity). D) a period of low sunspot activity from 1645 to 1715. E) volcanic activity and multiyear changes in global circulation.
D) a period of low sunspot activity from 1645 to 1715.
Scientists attribute the recent rise in atmospheric concentrations of nitrous oxide (N2O) primarily to A) industrial practices. B) wastewater management. C) drainage of wetlands. D) agricultural activity. E) automobile combustion.
D) agricultural activity.
Which of the following is a middle-level cloud type? A) stratus B) cirrostratus C) stratocumulus D) altostratus E) cumulonimbus
D) altostratus
"Snowball Earth" refers to A) a climate model that predicts large expanses of ice sheets due to negative feedback loops triggered by climate change. B) a hypothesized model of climate change based on massive volcanic eruptions and/or nuclear fallout creating a global winter. C) a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. D) an extreme icehouse climate from 600 to 700 million years ago with ice sheets extending to the tropics. E) the Pleistocene glaciation ending 12,000 years ago when the Laurentide Ice Sheet covered large portions of North America.
D) an extreme icehouse climate from 600 to 700 million years ago with ice sheets extending to the tropics.
Objects and wind moving over distance and time on Earth's surface are A) always deflected from a straight path to the west in the Southern Hemisphere. B) always deflected to the right by the friction force. C) affected only by the pressure gradient and friction force. D) apparently deflected from a straight path to the right in the Northern Hemisphere. E) uniformly affected regardless of the latitude at which the objects and winds are found
D) apparently deflected from a straight path to the right in the Northern Hemisphere
The interdisciplinary study of the causes and consequences of changing climate for all Earth systems and the sustainability of human societies is A) paleoclimatology. B) meteorology. C) microclimatology. D) climate change science. E) climate policy.
D) climate change science.
A stove that circulates heated air to uniformly cook food is an example of ________ heat transfer. A) latent B) conduction C) kinetic D) convection E) sensible
D) convection
If the amount of low, thick stratus cloud cover increases, the Earth's climates would likely ________ due to increased ________. A) cool; absorption B) warm; reflectivity C) warm; conduction D) cool; reflectivity E) warm; absorption
D) cool; reflectivity
Upper tropospheric winds that flow parallel to isobars are called A) easterlies. B) Hadley cells. C) westerlies. D) geostrophic winds. E) NE trades winds.
D) geostrophic winds.
The largest portion of fresh water today is located in A) the major rivers and lakes of the world. B) groundwater resources. C) swamps. D) ice caps and glaciers. E) clouds.
D) ice caps and glaciers.
Which of the following is not a reason for the energy surplus between the tropics? A) consistent daylength B) high insolation C) small diurnal and annual insolation differences D) indirect solar radiation E) little seasonal variations
D) indirect solar radiation
Which of the following is an example of tertiary circulation? A) subtropical high pressure systems B) weather patterns C) general circulation of the atmosphere D) land-sea breezes E) migratory high and low pressure systems
D) land-sea breezes
Which of the following is a nonradiative transfer of longwave radiation to the atmosphere? A) longwave radiation from Earth's surface B) conduction from the surface C) stratospheric ozone radiation D) latent heat transfer E) the greenhouse effect
D) latent heat transfer
The heat energy involved in the change of state, or phase, in water is A) sensible heat. B) kinetic energy. C) mechanical heat. D) latent heat. E) fusion heat.
D) latent heat.
The principal controls and influences of temperature patterns include A) Earth's tilt, rotation, revolution, and sphericity. B) latitude and elevation, only. C) the seasons and human activity. D) latitude, altitude, land-water heating differences, cloud cover, and ocean currents. E) the distance of the Earth from the sun and sunspot activity.
D) latitude, altitude, land-water heating differences, cloud cover, and ocean currents
Which of the following is not a reason for the energy deficit in the polar regions? A) large diurnal and annual insolation differences B) low sun angle C) up to six months without insolation D) little seasonal variability E) high albedo due to snow and ice
D) little seasonal variability
Relative to the five themes of geographic science, latitude and longitude refer to? A) region. B) human-Earth relationships. C) movement. D) location. E) place.
D) location
The climate regime exemplified by Asia's Taklamakan Desert, Argentina's Patagonia, and areas of central Nevada is A) subarctic cold winter. B) tropical savanna. C) humid subtropical hot-summer. D) midlatitude cold desert. E) marine west coast.
D) midlatitude cold desert.
The amount of water vapor that can be present in the air is primarily a function of the A) density. B) altitude. C) pressure. D) temperature. E) volume.
D) temperature.
According to readings from the Mauna Loa Observatory, CO2 concentrations currently exceed ________. A) 100-ppm B) 200-ppm C) 300-ppm D) 500-ppm E) 400-ppm
E) 400-ppm
Which of the following is false regarding air masses? A) They are homogenous in terms of temperature and humidity. B) They may dominate half the depth of the troposphere. C) An air mass initially reflects the characteristics of its source region. D) Air masses interact to create weather patterns. E) Air masses maintain their original characteristics as they migrate from their source regions.
E) Air masses maintain their original characteristics as they migrate from their source regions.
Which condition may exist when the pontentiometric surface is above ground level? A) A confined aquifer may become an unconfined aquifer. B) A spring may form. C) drawdown in the well D) local groundwater recharge of the aquifer E) Artesian water may rise to the surface in a well.
E) Artesian water may rise to the surface in a well.
As of 2014, which country led the world in CO2 emissions? A) the United States B) Canada C) France D) Germany E) China
E) China
In which of the following ways is the study of tree rings, speleothems, and corals for understanding past climatic conditions similar? A) The chronology each can provide only dates back to a maximum of 1,000 years and are, therefore, only useful for relatively recent climatic trends. B) Each are composed of organic materials and are therefore used solely for radiocarbon dating. C) The fossilized form of each is used for understanding past climatic conditions. D) Both are examples of macrofossils and can be used to determine plant and animal assemblages of bygone times. E) Each have growth bands, yielding evidence of the conditions under which they formed and grew.
E) Each have growth bands, yielding evidence of the conditions under which they formed and grew.
Which association is incorrect? A) Polar High - Cold/Dry B) ITCZ - 20-35° N/S C) Subtropical High - 20-35° N/S D) Subpolar low - 60° N/S E) Equatorial low - Hot/Dry
E) Equatorial low - Hot/Dry
The principle that explains the differential scattering of shorter wavelength radiation and accounts for the Earth's blue sky is A) Mie scattering. B) transmission. C) refraction. D) albedo. E) Rayleigh scattering
E) Rayleigh scattering
Which of the following accurately describes the use of tree rings for studying past climates (dendroclimatology)? A) The age of trees can be determined by tree ring analysis. By establishing the age of long-lived trees, one can determine the climate conditions of the area the year the tree sprouted. B) Because most trees only live 60 to 100 years, dendrochronology can only serve as a climate record for recent history and are primarily used to supplement instrument data. C) Dendrochronology is primarily used in the tropical regions, where one can easily correlate a tree species' age with the climatic conditions there. D) Tree ring analysis is best suited for short-lived species because it enables scientists to quickly and easily correlate tree ring growth to documented climatic conditions. E) The width of annual tree rings indicates the climatic conditions; wider rings suggest favorable conditions, whereas narrower rings suggest harsher conditions.
E) The width of annual tree rings indicates the climatic conditions; wider rings suggest favorable conditions, whereas narrower rings suggest harsher conditions.
A horizontal air current that is generated by temperature-induced density differences is an example of heat transfer by A) transmission. B) convection. C) conduction. D) diffusion. E) advection.
E) advection.
The solid, impermeable layer that forms the boundary of a confined aquifer is know as a(n) A) spring. B) artesian well. C) water table. D) aquitard. E) aquiclude.
E) aquiclude
Which of the following is correctly matched? A) convection - strongly horizontal mixing B) radiation - assimilation and conversion of C) latent heat - energy that can be sensed D) advection - strongly vertical mixing E) conduction - molecule-to-molecule heat transfer
E) conduction - molecule-to-molecule heat transfer
The permanent remove of water from the immediate water environment is known as A) nonconsumptive use. B) water withdrawal. C) groundwater mining. D) offstream. E) consumptive use.
E) consumptive use.
Humid subtropical hot-summer climates receive ________ precipitation during the summer and ________ precipitation in the winter. A) frontal; orographic B) orographic; frontal C) frontal; convectional D) convectional; orographic E) convectional; frontal
E) convectional; frontal
Vegetation in the tropical savanna is A) broadleaf evergreen forests. B) desert-like succulents. C) mixed deciduous and evergreen forests. D) lush (thick and green year-round). E) dominated by grassland with scattered trees.
E) dominated by grassland with scattered trees.
When the soil is at field capacity, A) water is unavailable to plants. B) the capillary force is not acting. C) no gravity drainage has occurred. D) a surplus definitely exists. E) excess gravitational water has drained.
E) excess gravitational water has drained.
Much of Earth's water supply likely originated from A) transpiration. B) respiration of early organisms. C) gases expelled from the Sun, i.e., solar wind. D) photosynthesis. E) icy comets and planetesimals debris
E) icy comets and planetesimals debris.
Water enters the soil in a process called ________, and then moves downward through the soil in a process called ________. A) percolation; throughfall B) percolation; infiltration C) throughfall; infiltration D) throughfall; percolation E) infiltration; percolation
E) infiltration; percolation
Which is incorrectly matched? A) cA-very cold, very dry, stable B) AA-antarctic. C) mT-warm, humid, variable stability depending on source region D) cP-cold, dense air E) mP-warm, moist, stable conditions
E) mP-warm, moist, stable conditions
The primary factors contributing to present sea-level rise are A) melting of land ice, only. B) melting of land ice and melting of sea ice. C) melting of sea ice and thermal expansion of seawater. D) thermal expansion of seawater, only. E) melting of land ice and thermal expansion of seawater.
E) melting of land ice and thermal expansion of seawater.
The science that studies the climate at or near Earth's surface is A) micrometeorology. B) astronomy. C) microastronomy. D) meteorology. E) microclimatology.
E) microclimatology
Official temperatures are measured using thermometers placed in shelters that are A) non-ventilated and black boxes, placed at ground level. B) in shade or near buildings or other shelters. C) in black boxes placed in direct sunlight for maximum insolation absorption. D) at ground level, in direct sunlight. E) placed a few feet above the ground in louvered white boxes.
E) placed a few feet above the ground in louvered white boxes.
Before a hurricane forms, upper-level divergence above an easterly wave A) weakens vertical convective circulation. B) forms a mesocyclone. C) causes the system to dissipate. D) moves west to east. E) pulls moisture into the system.
E) pulls moisture into the system.
During the day, clouds ________ insolation, lowering daily maximum temperatures; at night, clouds ________ longwave energy, thereby raising minimum nighttime temperatures. A) reflect; scatter B) scatter; absorb and counterradiate C) absorb; reflect D) scatter; refract E) reflect; absorb and counterradiate
E) reflect; absorb and counterradiate
Meteorologists dubbed the persistent ridge of high pressure responsible for California's ongoing drought the A) absurdly assiduous ridge. B) nonsensically never-ending ridge. C) incredibly intractable ridge. D) preposterously persistent ridge. E) ridiculously resilient ridge.
E) ridiculously resilient ridge.
Mineral deposits within caves and caverns are known as A) foraminifera B) latewood. C) varves. D) earlywood. E) speleothems
E) speleothems
The majority of hurricane damage and drowning is caused by the ________. A) associated tornadoes B) spiral rain bands C) eyewall D) eye E) storm surge
E) storm surge
The key elements of climate change science include which of the following? A) projection of future climate scenarios, only B) measurement of current climatic change, only C) study of past climates, only D) establishing policy on CO2 emissions E) study of past climates, measurement of current climatic change, and projection of future climate scenarios
E) study of past climates, measurement of current climatic change, and projection of future climate scenarios
Potential evapotranspiration refers to A) the average amount of evapotranspiration over an area per unit time. B) the amount of evapotranspiration measured from an evaporation pan. C) the amount of water that returns to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration. D) a precise measurement of evapotranspiration using a lysimeter. E) the amount of evapotranspiration that would occur if available water was not limited.
E) the amount of evapotranspiration that would occur if available water was not limited.
Weather is A) a reference to temperature patterns only. B) the long-term atmospheric condition, including extremes that may occur. C) a classification to describe the average temperature and precipitation of an area. D) the climate of a region. E) the short-term condition of the atmosphere.
E) the short-term condition of the atmosphere.
Earth's main energy inputs are A) longwave radiation and ultraviolet light. B) microwaves and radio waves. C) near infrared and far infrared (i.e., longwave radiation). D) gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet radiation. E) ultraviolet, visible, and near infrared radiation.
E) ultraviolet, visible, and near infrared radiation.
Where surface water is swept away from a coast, ________ occurs, bringing cold, nutrient rich waters to the surface. A) downwelling B) gyres C) intensification D) thermohaline circulation E) upwelling
E) upwelling
Which of the following is true about Global Positioning System (GPS)? A) GPS is used solely by the military, who share information with physical geographers. B) GPS uses radio signals to accurately determine location. C) GPS is another term used for geographic information systems. D) GPS is the same as remote sensing. E) GPS has no scientific uses, but is great for recreational purposes.
GPS uses radio signals to accurately determine location.
________ is the flow of energy between molecules or from one body or substance to another resulting from a temperature difference between them. A) Visible light B) Electromagnetic radiation C) Temperature D) Thermal infrared through radiation E) Heat
Heat
Who made a significant, early contribution to cartography by dividing the circumference of Earth into 360° with each degree comprising 60 minutes, and each minute comprising 60 seconds? A) Magellan—in the sixteenth century A.D. B) Mercator—in the sixteenth century A.D. C) Pythagoras—in the sixth century B.C. D) Ptolemy—in the second century A.D. E) Sir Isaac Newton—in the seventeenth century A.D.
Ptolemy—in the second century A.D
Which of the following is true regarding the prime meridian? A) While latitude can be represented as both degrees, minutes and seconds and decimal degrees, longitude is always represented using decimal degrees. B) The prime meridian is a small circle. C) The prime meridian passes through the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, England. D) The key to measuring angular distances east and west of the prime meridian was the development of accurate compasses. E) International agreement regarding the location of the prime meridian was not resolved until the 1980s when a treaty was completed
The prime meridian passes through the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, England
The realization that Earth was a sphere A) was ascertained after the launch of Sputnik. B) was made by Isaac Newton. C) was first made by Pythagoras, 580-500 B.C. D) did not occur in Europe until the first voyages of Columbus. E) had to wait until the modern era (1800s)
Was first made by Pythagoras, 580-500 B.C
Earth and the Sun formed specifically from A) black holes. B) other planets. C) unknown origins. D) a nebula of dust and gases. E) the Milky Way Galaxy.
a nebula of dust and gases.
Sustainable development seeks to A) meet a growing populations needs now without consideration of the future. B) advance the condition of human society while maintaining functioning Earth systems. C) severely limit human development to protect the environment. D) enforce mandates to strongly curtail economic activities that are environmentally detrimental. E) restrict economic activity in MDCs to foster more economic activity in LDCs.
advance the condition of human society while maintaining functioning Earth systems.
Why does temperature increase with altitude in the stratosphere? A) Ozone acts as a greenhouse gas which traps ultraviolet energy radiated by Earth's surface. B) The increase is due to the effects of the normal lapse rate effect. C) Ozone converts UV radiation from the sun into heat energy. D) Chlorofluorocarbons increase ozone concentrations, which enhance temperature. E) Temperatures actually decrease with altitude in the stratosphere.
c) Ozone converts UV radiation from the sun into heat energy
The term "net radiation" refers to the A) total amount of energy received by Earth. B) variations in insolation latitudinally due to solar wind activity. C) variations in insolation latitudinally due to sun spot cycles. D) total amount of energy radiated by Earth. E) difference in the amount of incoming and outgoing radiation.
difference in the amount of incoming and outgoing radiation.
The capacity to change the motion of, or to do work on, matter is the definition of A) acceleration. B) system. C) energy. D) thermodynamics. E) plasma.
energy.
Which type of map scale would be appropriate to use if the map were to be enlarged by photocopying? A) representative fraction B) temporal C) written D) relative E) graphic
graphic
Relative to the five themes of geographic science, resource management and sustainable growth refer to? A) location. B) region. C) human-Earth relationships. D) movement. E) place.
human-Earth relationships.
Solar radiation that is intercept by Earth is called A) thermal infrared radiation. B) thermopause. C) insolation. D) solar constant. E) solar wind.
insolation
A parallel of latitude A) is called a meridian. B) is used to measure distances north or south of the equator. C) is a line which passes through both poles. D) is used to measure distances east and west of the equator. E) measures longitude.
is used to measure distances north or south of the equator.
Predator/prey relationships are an example of? A) negative feedback, because prey populations tend to achieve a balance with the number of predators. B) negative feedback, because more predators equal fewer prey and people tend to like prey more than predators. C) positive feedback, because more predation leads to higher prey populations as they increase reproduction to insure survival. D) positive feedback, because top predators are rare and have been hunted to near extinction allowing prey populations to proliferate. E) positive feedback, as more prey discourages further predation allowing prey populations to flourish.
negative feedback, because prey populations tend to achieve a balance with the number of predators
Most of the processes in our biosphere are fueled by A) the moon. B) utilities and oil companies. C) tidal action of the Oceans and large lakes. D) radiant energy from the Sun. E) energy derived from inside Earth.
radiant energy from the Sun.
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) A) is the same as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). B) is determined using astronomical clocks that rely on Earth's rotation. C) is two hours ahead of Zulu time, indicating the single moment when all locations on the planet are on the same calendar day. D) established 24 standard meridians around the globe at equal intervals from the prime meridian. E) replaced Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and became the legal reference for official time in all countries.
replaced Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and became the legal reference for official time in all countries.
Remote sensing is? A) a locational service for determining longitude and latitude. B) an earthbound technique not used in modern satellites. C) based on the principle that surfaces must be physically handled and directly measured for study. D) a subjective determination of temperature. E) the monitoring of a distant object without physical contact.
the monitoring of a distant object without physical contact.
The word "spatial" refers to A) the chronological organization of Earth's major geological events. B) system operations, such as feedback loops, that influence its own operations. C) the nature and character of physical space and the distribution of things within it. D) the organization of human societies in relationship to the physical environment. E) the point at which a system can no longer maintain its character and lurches into a new operational level.
the nature and character of physical space and the distribution of things within it.
On the September Equinox A) the subsolar point is at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° S). B) all latitudes on Earth except the equator experiences unequal daylengths. C) the Arctic Circle is completely within the circle of illuminations and experiences 24 hours of daylength. D) the sun rises at the South Pole and will remain over the horizon for the next six months. E) the Northern Hemisphere's spring officially begins.
the sun rises at the South Pole and will remain over the horizon for the next six months.
The region at the top of the atmosphere located approximately 480 km (300 mi) above Earth's surface is known as the A) apihelion. B) sun spot. C) perihelion. D) aurora. E) thermopause.
thermopause
The term "geography" (geo graphein) literally means? A) the study of rocks. B) map making. C) to write (about) Earth. D) place names. E) spatial reasoning and cognition.
to write (about) Earth.
A scale of 1 inch = 8 miles is an example of a? A) relative scale. B) representative fraction. C) written scale. D) graphic scale. E) temporal scale.
written scale.
