1.
A hypothesis is formulated using which type of reasoning?
Correct Answer
B. Inductive
Explanation
A hypothesis is formulated using inductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning involves making generalizations or predictions based on specific observations or evidence. In this case, a hypothesis is formed by observing specific phenomena or patterns and then inferring a general statement or prediction about the relationship between those phenomena. Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles or theories, which is not the process used in formulating a hypothesis. Didactic reasoning is not a type of reasoning used in formulating hypotheses.
2.
Why might a scientist modify his or her hypothesis?
Correct Answer
A. He results of an experiment are not consistent with the hypothesis.
Explanation
A scientist might modify his or her hypothesis if the results of an experiment are not consistent with the hypothesis. This is because the purpose of conducting an experiment is to test the validity of the hypothesis, and if the results do not support it, then the scientist needs to revise the hypothesis to better align with the observed data. Modifying the hypothesis allows the scientist to refine their understanding of the phenomenon being studied and develop a more accurate explanation.
3.
General to specific reasoning
Correct Answer
B. Inductive
Explanation
Inductive reasoning involves drawing general conclusions based on specific observations or evidence. It starts with specific instances and then makes a generalization or prediction. This answer is correct because it correctly identifies inductive reasoning as the type of reasoning that moves from general to specific. Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, moves from specific to general, while didactic refers to teaching or instructing.
4.
Specific to general reasoning
Correct Answer
A. Deductive
Explanation
The given answer "deductive" is correct because deductive reasoning involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles or premises. In this context, specific to general reasoning means starting with specific instances or examples and then generalizing them to form a broader principle or conclusion. This aligns with the concept of deductive reasoning, where specific observations or evidence are used to derive a general rule or theory.
5.
How is the word "theory" viewed by scientists and the lay public?
Correct Answer
C. Scientists view a theory as a rigorously tested hypothesis with broad explanatory power; the lay pblic views a theory as an "imperfectly known fact" or a guess.
Explanation
Scientists and the lay public have different views on the word "theory." Scientists consider a theory to be a hypothesis that has undergone rigorous testing and has the ability to explain a wide range of phenomena. On the other hand, the lay public sees a theory as an "imperfectly known fact" or simply a guess. While scientists base their understanding of a theory on physical evidence, the public tends to view it as wishful thinking.
6.
What in science is immune to testing? What is an example from lecture of a scientific law that was tested and found to be better explained by another theory
Correct Answer
B. Nothing; Newton's laws vs. Einstein's relativity
Explanation
In this question, the correct answer is "nothing; Newton's laws vs. Einstein's relativity." This means that in science, nothing is immune to testing. The example given in the lecture is the comparison between Newton's laws and Einstein's theory of relativity. Newton's laws were tested and found to be better explained by the theory of relativity, showing that even well-established scientific laws can be tested and potentially replaced by more accurate theories.
7.
What is the purpose of the control group in a controlled experiment?
Correct Answer
C. To provide an untreated comparison with the experimental group
Explanation
The purpose of the control group in a controlled experiment is to provide an untreated comparison with the experimental group. This allows researchers to compare the effects of the independent variable on the experimental group, as the control group does not receive any treatment or manipulation. By having a control group, researchers can determine if any observed changes or effects are truly caused by the independent variable, rather than other factors.
8.
What is a controlled variable in an experiment?
Correct Answer
D. Anything other than the treatment that could differ between the experimental and control groups
Explanation
A controlled variable in an experiment refers to anything other than the treatment that could differ between the experimental and control groups. This means that all aspects of the experiment, except for the treatment being tested, should be kept constant in order to accurately assess the effects of the treatment. By controlling variables such as time, temperature, or other conditions, researchers can isolate the impact of the treatment and determine its specific effects on the experimental group compared to the control group.
9.
Which of the following is NOT an assumption made by science?
Correct Answer
D. Supernatural forces can alter pHysical effects
Explanation
Science is based on the assumption that the universe exists and can be rationally studied. It also assumes that physical laws can explain natural phenomena. However, science does not assume that supernatural forces can alter physical effects. This is because science relies on empirical evidence and the scientific method, which focuses on natural explanations for observable phenomena. Supernatural forces, by definition, are beyond the scope of scientific inquiry as they cannot be tested or observed in a systematic and repeatable manner.
10.
Give an example from lecture of something that reflects both science and technology.
Correct Answer
A. A pendulum
Explanation
A pendulum reflects both science and technology because it involves the scientific principles of gravity, motion, and energy transfer, while also being a technological tool used in various applications such as timekeeping, physics experiments, and even art installations. The design and construction of a pendulum require technological knowledge and skills to create a functional and accurate device.
11.
Which of the following is not a characteristic of living things.
Correct Answer
C. Ability to move
Explanation
Living things have the ability to metabolize substances, reproduce, and adapt and evolve. However, not all living things have the ability to move. For example, plants are living organisms but they are rooted in the ground and cannot move from one place to another. Therefore, the ability to move is not a characteristic of all living things.
12.
The unifying concept of biology is
Correct Answer
B. Evolution
Explanation
Evolution is the correct answer as it serves as the unifying concept of biology. It explains how all living organisms have descended from a common ancestor and how they have adapted and diversified over time. Evolutionary principles are applicable to all areas of biology, including genetics, ecology, and physiology. By understanding evolution, scientists can make predictions and explanations about the diversity and behavior of different species, as well as the relationships between them.
13.
What does the letter "r" designate in the logistic growth equation?
Correct Answer
B. Intrinsic birth rate of a a population
Explanation
The letter "r" in the logistic growth equation designates the intrinsic birth rate of a population. This refers to the rate at which individuals are born and can contribute to population growth. The logistic growth equation models the growth of a population over time, taking into account factors such as birth rate, death rate, and carrying capacity.
14.
What is the relationship of limiting factors to carrying capacity?
Correct Answer
C. Carrying capacity can be set by a single limiting factor.
Explanation
Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals that an environment can sustainably support. Limiting factors, on the other hand, are factors that restrict the growth or distribution of a population. The given answer suggests that a single limiting factor can determine the carrying capacity of a population. This means that if a specific factor, such as food availability or habitat space, becomes limited, it can directly affect the carrying capacity by setting a maximum limit on the population size that can be supported.
15.
Which of the following describes a type III survivorship pattern?
Correct Answer
D. High infant mortality with a low probability of living to old age
Explanation
A type III survivorship pattern is characterized by high infant mortality with a low probability of living to old age. This means that a large number of individuals in the cohort die at a young age, particularly during infancy, and only a small percentage of individuals survive to reach old age. The mortality rate decreases as individuals reach middle age, but then increases again in old age. This pattern is commonly observed in species with large numbers of offspring and little parental care, where survival is primarily determined by external factors such as predation or environmental conditions.
16.
The ecological term for the number of species in an ecosystem is:
Correct Answer
A. Species richness
Explanation
Species richness refers to the number of different species present in an ecosystem. It is a measure of biodiversity and indicates the diversity and abundance of species within a given area or habitat. The term "species richness" specifically focuses on the total number of species, without considering the abundance or distribution of each species. Therefore, species richness provides valuable information about the overall diversity and complexity of an ecosystem.
17.
Which of the following is an example from the lecture of a commensalistic relationship?
Correct Answer
D. Eyelash mites
Explanation
Eyelash mites are an example of a commensalistic relationship because they live on the eyelashes of humans without causing any harm or benefit to the host. The mites benefit from the environment provided by the eyelashes, but the host is not affected positively or negatively by their presence. This is different from the other options listed, as mosquitoes, mistletoe, and intestinal bacteria all have either harmful or beneficial effects on their hosts.
18.
What is the role of decomposers in nutrient cycling?
Correct Answer
B. to recycle minerals to the reservoir for re-use by primary producers
Explanation
Decomposers play a crucial role in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the environment. As they decompose dead plants and animals, they recycle minerals, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon, back into the soil or water. These minerals are then available for uptake by primary producers, such as plants, to use in their growth and development. Therefore, decomposers help to maintain a continuous supply of essential nutrients in the ecosystem by returning them to the reservoir for reuse by primary producers.
19.
Biological magnification occurs because
Correct Answer
D. All of the above, answer 1, 2, and 3 contribute to biological magnification
Explanation
Biological magnification occurs because as organisms consume other organisms, the toxins present in the prey accumulate in the predator's body. This accumulation happens because the biomass decreases by 90% from each trophic level to the next, leading to a higher concentration of toxins in each successive level. Additionally, toxic substances can enter the food web at the producer level and be absorbed and stored by the producers without being excreted. These toxins then get transferred to the consumers at higher trophic levels, where they continue to accumulate to a concentration high enough to cause harm to the organisms. Therefore, all three factors mentioned in answers 1, 2, and 3 contribute to biological magnification.
20.
The Earth tilts at 23 degrees on its axis. This causes
Correct Answer
B. Seasonality
Explanation
The Earth tilts at 23 degrees on its axis, which causes seasonality. This tilt means that different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changing of seasons. As the Earth orbits the Sun, the tilt causes the angle at which sunlight hits different regions to change, resulting in variations in temperature, weather patterns, and the length of daylight. This phenomenon is responsible for the distinct seasons experienced in different parts of the world.
21.
Deserts cover about ___ % of the Earths land surface.
Correct Answer
C. 20
Explanation
Deserts cover about 20% of the Earth's land surface. This means that approximately one-fifth of the Earth's land is made up of deserts. Deserts are characterized by low precipitation levels and extreme temperatures, which make them difficult places for most forms of life to thrive. The 20% figure highlights the significant extent of these arid regions and their impact on the overall composition of the Earth's land surface.
22.
Permafrost soils are a part of the _____ biome
Correct Answer
C. Tundra
Explanation
Permafrost soils are a characteristic feature of the tundra biome. The tundra is a cold and treeless biome found in the Arctic and subarctic regions, characterized by low temperatures and a short growing season. Permafrost refers to the permanently frozen layer of soil that is found in the tundra, which greatly influences the vegetation and ecosystem dynamics of this biome. Therefore, the correct answer is tundra.
23.
Depictions of the story of Noahs Ark usually show animals such as zebras, lions, giraffes, elephants, and rhinoceroses. These animals are typical of
Correct Answer
B. Savanna
Explanation
The correct answer is savanna. The animals mentioned in the question, such as zebras, lions, giraffes, elephants, and rhinoceroses, are commonly found in savanna ecosystems. Savannas are characterized by grasslands with scattered trees and are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including large herbivores and predators. The depiction of these animals in the story of Noah's Ark aligns with their natural habitat in savannas.
24.
Tropical grassland with shrubs and isolated trees is called:
Correct Answer
E. Savanna
Explanation
A tropical grassland with shrubs and isolated trees is called a savanna. This type of biome is characterized by a wet and dry season, with a high temperature year-round. The vegetation consists mainly of grasses, with scattered shrubs and trees. The savanna is home to a diverse range of animals, including large herbivores like elephants and giraffes, as well as predators like lions and cheetahs. The climate and vegetation of the savanna make it a unique and important ecosystem.
25.
North Carolina State University(Raleigh, North Carolina, USA) is located in an area that is in the _____ biome.
Correct Answer
E. Temperate diciduous forest
Explanation
North Carolina State University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. Raleigh is in the southeastern region of the United States, which is known for its temperate deciduous forest biome. This biome is characterized by a variety of deciduous trees that lose their leaves seasonally. Therefore, the correct answer is temperate deciduous forest.
26.
Marshes and swamps differ in that
Correct Answer
B. Swamps have trees, marshes do not have trees
Explanation
Swamps have trees, while marshes do not have trees. This means that the presence or absence of trees is what distinguishes swamps from marshes.
27.
The deepest marine zone is the ____ zone
Correct Answer
D. ApHotic
Explanation
The deepest marine zone is known as the aphotic zone. This zone is characterized by complete darkness and is located below the photic zone, where sunlight can penetrate. In the aphotic zone, sunlight is unable to reach, resulting in a lack of photosynthesis. As a result, organisms in this zone rely on alternative sources of energy, such as chemosynthesis, to survive. The aphotic zone is typically found in the deep ocean, where the water is too deep for sunlight to penetrate.
28.
The duckbill platypus is one of the strangest and most primitive of mammals. Among its characteristics is laying eggs. It lives in the _____ of Australia.
Correct Answer
E. Temperate diciduous forest
29.
Ocotillo is characteristic of the _____ biome
Correct Answer
F. Desert
Explanation
The correct answer is desert because the ocotillo plant is commonly found in desert biomes. Ocotillo plants have long, spiny stems and are well-adapted to survive in arid conditions. They are typically found in desert regions such as the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. These plants are able to conserve water and thrive in the hot and dry climate of desert environments. Therefore, the ocotillo is characteristic of the desert biome.
30.
The coniferous spruce is a characteristic plant and the moose is a characteristic animal of the _____ biome, so this biome is also called the spruce moose biome.
Correct Answer
A. Taiga
Explanation
The coniferous spruce and the moose are both characteristic of the taiga biome. The taiga biome is characterized by cold temperatures, long winters, and dominated by coniferous forests. The spruce trees are a common type of coniferous tree found in the taiga, while the moose is a large herbivorous mammal that is well adapted to the cold climate and feeds on the vegetation in the taiga. Therefore, the taiga biome is often referred to as the spruce moose biome.
31.
Acid Rain has a pH of
Correct Answer
B. 5.5 or less
Explanation
Acid rain is characterized by a low pH level, which means it is acidic. A pH of 5.5 or less indicates a higher acidity level, making it an appropriate answer choice. pH levels below 7 are considered acidic, while levels above 7 are alkaline or basic. Therefore, a pH of 5.5 or less accurately represents the acidity of acid rain.
32.
Most acid precipitation results from he formation of atmospheric
Correct Answer
A. SO2
Explanation
Acid precipitation, also known as acid rain, is caused by the emission of sulfur dioxide (SO2) into the atmosphere. When SO2 reacts with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the air, it forms sulfuric acid, which then falls back to the Earth's surface as acid rain. This is why SO2 is the correct answer for the formation of acid precipitation.
33.
A major problem in national parks with regard to visitors is
Correct Answer
A. Overuse
Explanation
The major problem in national parks with regard to visitors is overuse. This means that there is a high volume of visitors in the parks, which can lead to various issues such as overcrowding, damage to the natural environment, and strain on park resources. Overuse can also result in decreased enjoyment for visitors, as they may have to deal with long lines, limited access to certain areas, and difficulty finding parking. Park management often has to implement strategies to address overuse, such as implementing visitor quotas, trail restrictions, and educational campaigns to promote responsible visitation.
34.
In national parks such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the goal of park managers is
Correct Answer
A. To allow its ecosystems to remain as free of human interference as is practical.
Explanation
The correct answer is to allow its ecosystems to remain as free of human interference as is practical. This means that the goal of park managers in national parks such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to minimize the impact of human activities on the natural ecosystems and preserve them in their natural state as much as possible. This approach ensures the protection and conservation of the park's biodiversity and ecological processes.
35.
An important nursery for marine animals is
Correct Answer
A. The saltmarsh behind barrier islands such as the island at Nags Head, NC.
Explanation
The correct answer is the saltmarsh behind barrier islands such as the island at Nags Head, NC. This is because saltmarshes provide a unique and vital habitat for marine animals. They act as nurseries for many species, offering protection and abundant food sources for young animals. Barrier islands, like the one at Nags Head, NC, provide a natural buffer between the open ocean and the saltmarsh, creating a safe and productive environment for marine life to thrive.
36.
In a river, a garfish is an indicator of
Correct Answer
B. Declining, more polluted water
Explanation
The presence of a garfish in a river is an indicator of declining, more polluted water. Garfish are known to be tolerant of poor water quality and are often found in areas with low oxygen levels and high levels of pollution. Therefore, their presence suggests that the water quality is deteriorating and becoming more polluted.
37.
About ___ percent of the worlds food supply is produced by irrigation
Correct Answer
C. 30
Explanation
Approximately 30 percent of the world's food supply is produced by irrigation. This means that irrigation plays a significant role in agriculture and food production globally. It helps to provide water to crops in areas where rainfall is insufficient, ensuring their growth and productivity. Without irrigation, a large portion of the world's food supply would be at risk, leading to potential food shortages and higher food prices. Therefore, irrigation is crucial in sustaining and increasing food production to meet the growing global demand.
38.
A problem with irrigation is that it results in
Correct Answer
D. 2 and 3 are correct
Explanation
Irrigation can lead to an overabundance of food because it provides a consistent water supply to crops, allowing them to grow more efficiently. However, it can also result in a buildup of salt in the soil as the water evaporates. This is because the water used for irrigation often contains dissolved salts, which are left behind when the water evaporates. Additionally, irrigation can involve diverting water from rivers, which can have negative impacts on the ecosystem and water availability downstream. Therefore, options 2 and 3 are correct.
39.
Estimates are that if every household replaced one often-used standard incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent bulb, the resulting energy savings would equal a reduction of ______ cars on the road
Correct Answer
C. 1,000,000
Explanation
If every household replaced one often-used standard incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent bulb, the resulting energy savings would be significant. By using compact fluorescent bulbs, households would consume less electricity, leading to a reduction in energy demand. This reduction in energy demand would have an impact on the environment by reducing the need for power generation, thus reducing carbon emissions. The estimate is that the energy savings from this switch would be equivalent to taking 1,000,000 cars off the road, highlighting the substantial impact that small changes in energy consumption can have on the environment.
40.
Marine Ecosystems
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pelagic
B. Benthic
C. pHotic
D. ApHotic
E. Intertidal
F. Coral Reeds
Explanation
The given answer includes various types of marine ecosystems. Pelagic refers to the open ocean, while benthic refers to the ocean floor. Photic zones are areas where sunlight penetrates, while aphotic zones are areas without sunlight. Intertidal zones are the areas between high and low tide, and coral reefs are underwater structures formed by coral polyps.
41.
All open water
Correct Answer
A. Pelagic
Explanation
Pelagic refers to the zone of the ocean that is not near the coast or the bottom of the ocean. It includes all open water areas, excluding the coastal areas and the ocean floor. This term is often used to describe the vast open ocean where marine organisms such as fish, whales, and dolphins live and swim freely. The pelagic zone is characterized by its depth and lack of contact with the seafloor, allowing for a wide range of marine life to thrive in this habitat.
42.
Sea Floor
Correct Answer
B. Benthic
Explanation
Benthic refers to the bottom of a body of water, including the sediment and organisms that live there. This term is often used to describe the sea floor or lake bottom. It is the correct answer because it is the only term in the given options that relates to the bottom of the water body. Pelagic refers to the open water, while photic and aphotic refer to the zones of water based on sunlight penetration. Intertidal refers to the area between high and low tide, and coral reefs are a specific type of underwater ecosystem.
43.
Where algae live in Marine Ecosystems
Correct Answer
C. pHotic
Explanation
Algae live in the photic zone of marine ecosystems. The photic zone is the upper layer of the ocean where sunlight can penetrate, allowing for photosynthesis to occur. Algae require sunlight for photosynthesis, so they are found in this zone where they can receive adequate light. The other options, such as pelagic, benthic, aphotic, intertidal, and coral reefs, do not specifically refer to the zone where algae live.
44.
Shallow areas, includes open water and sea floor
Correct Answer
C. pHotic
Explanation
The term "photic" refers to the zone in a body of water that receives enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur. This zone includes both the open water and the sea floor in shallow areas. The other options listed are not applicable to this description.
45.
Inhabited by zooplankton
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pelagic
C. pHotic
Explanation
Pelagic refers to the open water area of a body of water, away from the shore or bottom. Zooplankton, which are small animals that float in the water, typically inhabit the pelagic zone. The term "photic" refers to the zone in a body of water where sunlight can penetrate and support photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answer "Pelagic, Photic" suggests that the area being described is the open water zone where zooplankton live and where sunlight can reach.
46.
Inhabited by crustaceans and small fish
Correct Answer
D. ApHotic
Explanation
The term "aphotic" refers to a zone in the ocean where there is no sunlight penetration. This zone is characterized by complete darkness and is located below the photic zone, where sunlight can reach. In this zone, there is no photosynthesis occurring, so there is a lack of primary producers such as algae or plants. As a result, the aphotic zone is generally inhabited by organisms that can survive in low-light or no-light conditions, such as deep-sea fish, certain types of bacteria, and other organisms that rely on chemosynthesis rather than photosynthesis for energy.
47.
Inhabited by bottomfeeders
Correct Answer
B. Benthic
Explanation
The correct answer is "Benthic". Benthic refers to the bottom of a body of water, including the sediment and organisms that live there. Inhabited by bottomfeeders suggests that the area being described is the bottom part of the water, where organisms that feed on the sediment or other organisms on the bottom are found. Therefore, "Benthic" is the most suitable term to describe this habitat.
48.
Inhabited by bottomfeeders
Correct Answer
D. ApHotic
Explanation
The term "aphotic" refers to a zone or area in a body of water that lacks sunlight and is therefore unable to support photosynthesis. In this context, the statement "inhabited by bottomfeeders" suggests that the area being referred to is a deep, dark region of the ocean where light does not penetrate. This is consistent with the characteristics of the aphotic zone, which is located below the photic zone where sunlight can reach.
49.
interface with land or freshwater
Correct Answer
E. Intertidal
Explanation
Intertidal refers to the area that is exposed to air during low tide and submerged during high tide. This zone is characterized by the interface between land and water, making it the correct answer. Pelagic refers to the open ocean, benthic refers to the ocean floor, photic refers to the zone where sunlight can penetrate, aphotic refers to the zone where sunlight cannot penetrate, and coral reefs are a specific type of marine habitat.
50.
Rocky home to sedentary organism
Correct Answer
E. Intertidal
Explanation
The correct answer is "Intertidal" because the term "intertidal" refers to the area between the high and low tide marks, where organisms are exposed to both air and water. This habitat is characterized by constant changes in water levels and conditions, which makes it suitable for sedentary organisms that can adapt to these fluctuations.