1.
On the first day of spring, the hours of daylight and of darkness are equal.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
On the first day of spring, also known as the vernal equinox, the hours of daylight and darkness are indeed equal. This occurs because the Earth's axis is not tilted towards or away from the sun, resulting in the sun being directly above the equator. As a result, the day and night are approximately the same length all over the world. This phenomenon marks the transition from winter to spring and is a significant event in the astronomical calendar.
2.
An area along the California and Oregon border, known as the "Easter Lily Capital of the World”, produces more than 11 million bulbs for the potted Easter lily market. What percent do you think this is compared to the Easter lily bulbs produced worldwide?
Correct Answer
A. 95%
Explanation
The correct answer is 95%. This means that the area along the California and Oregon border, known as the "Easter Lily Capital of the World", produces 95% of the potted Easter lily bulbs worldwide. This indicates that the production in this specific region is significantly higher compared to other regions or countries that produce Easter lily bulbs.
3.
What is the 1st day of spring called?
Correct Answer
C. Vernal Equinox
Explanation
The first day of spring is called the Vernal Equinox. This is the day when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in equal lengths of day and night all over the world. It marks the beginning of longer days and shorter nights as the Earth tilts towards the sun. The term "vernal" refers to spring, while "equinox" signifies the equal length of day and night. Therefore, the Vernal Equinox is the correct answer for the first day of spring.
4.
What month does Spring begin in Australia?
Correct Answer
C. September
Explanation
In Australia, Spring begins in September. This is because Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere, where the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, Spring begins in March, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it begins in September. Therefore, September is the correct answer for when Spring begins in Australia.
5.
Earth does not circle the sun in exactly 365 days. This is why the 1st day of spring can vary.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because Earth's orbit around the sun takes approximately 365.25 days to complete. This is why we have leap years every four years to account for the extra quarter day. As a result, the 1st day of spring can vary slightly each year.
6.
One long-term study found that in the Colorado Rocky Mountain region, spring begins (on average) about 3 weeks earlier than it did in the 1970s.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is supported by a long-term study conducted in the Colorado Rocky Mountain region. The study found that the onset of spring in this region has shifted earlier by approximately 3 weeks compared to the 1970s. This suggests a trend of earlier spring arrival, possibly due to climate change or other environmental factors. Therefore, the answer is true.
7.
Easter always falls on the 1st Sunday after the 1st full moon after the fall equinox.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement provided is incorrect. Easter does not always fall on the 1st Sunday after the 1st full moon after the fall equinox. The date of Easter is determined by a complex set of rules established by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. It is calculated as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, which can vary from year to year. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
8.
In the Northern Hemisphere, springtime lasts from August until November.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is incorrect. In the Northern Hemisphere, springtime typically lasts from March until June.
9.
What are the most popular months to get married?
Correct Answer
D. June and September
Explanation
June and September are the most popular months to get married because they offer pleasant weather in many parts of the world. June is a popular choice because it marks the beginning of summer, with warmer temperatures and longer days. September is also a popular month as it falls towards the end of summer, allowing couples to take advantage of the last warm days before the arrival of autumn. Additionally, these months are often preferred for weddings as they offer a wider range of venue options, availability of vendors, and the opportunity for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
10.
Tornadoes most commonly occur in the spring.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Tornadoes most commonly occur in the spring because during this season, the clash of warm and cold air masses creates the ideal conditions for the formation of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. The warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico collides with the cold, dry air from the north, leading to the development of powerful storms that can produce tornadoes. Additionally, the increased atmospheric instability and wind shear during spring contribute to the formation and intensity of tornadoes. Therefore, it is true that tornadoes most commonly occur in the spring.