1.
Where do earthquakes most often happen?
Correct Answer
A. At plate boundaries
Explanation
Earthquakes most often happen at plate boundaries because these are the areas where tectonic plates interact with each other. The movement and collision of these plates can cause stress to build up, leading to earthquakes. Plate boundaries can be classified into three types: convergent boundaries where plates collide, divergent boundaries where plates move apart, and transform boundaries where plates slide past each other. These interactions create the conditions necessary for earthquakes to occur. In contrast, the center of tectonic plates, beachfronts, and mountain ranges are not typically associated with high levels of tectonic activity, making them less prone to earthquakes.
2.
What three things are needed to start photosynthesis in plants?
Correct Answer
B. Water, Carbon dioxide, and sunlight
Explanation
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Water is required for photosynthesis as it is a key component in the production of glucose. Carbon dioxide is also necessary for photosynthesis as it is used by plants to produce glucose during the process. Sunlight is needed to provide the energy required for the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answer is "Water, Carbon dioxide, and sunlight."
3.
What is a long term change performed by a species in response to its environment?
Correct Answer
B. Evolution
Explanation
Evolution is the correct answer because it refers to the long-term change that occurs in a species over time in response to its environment. This change can involve genetic variations, natural selection, and adaptation to better suit the species' survival and reproduction needs. Speciation, on the other hand, refers to the formation of new species through the evolutionary process.
4.
What needs to happen for a mass wasting event to occur?
Correct Answer
A. The slope needs to exceed its angle of repose
Explanation
A mass wasting event occurs when the slope of a hill or mountain exceeds its angle of repose. The angle of repose is the maximum angle at which loose materials, such as soil or rock, can remain stable without sliding or collapsing. When the slope becomes steeper than this angle, the materials lose their stability and start to move downhill. This can be triggered by various factors such as erosion, earthquakes, or heavy rainfall, but ultimately, the key requirement for a mass wasting event is that the slope exceeds its angle of repose.
5.
What law states that matter cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transferred from place to place?
Correct Answer
B. The Law of Conservation of Matter
Explanation
The Law of Conservation of Matter states that matter cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transferred from place to place. This means that in any physical or chemical process, the total amount of matter remains constant. This law is a fundamental principle in chemistry and physics and is also known as the Law of Conservation of Mass.
6.
What islands did Charles Darwin observe to create his theory of evolution?
Correct Answer
C. Galapagos
Explanation
Charles Darwin observed the Galapagos Islands to create his theory of evolution. These islands are located in the Pacific Ocean and are known for their unique and diverse range of plant and animal species. Darwin's observations of the different species on the Galapagos Islands, particularly the variations in finches and tortoises, led him to develop his theory of natural selection and evolution. The Galapagos Islands played a crucial role in shaping Darwin's understanding of the mechanisms behind the diversity of life on Earth.
7.
The First Law of Thermodynamics tells us that as energy is transferred between systems, less energy is available to do work
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The First Law of Thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. It does not say anything about the availability of energy to do work. Therefore, the statement that less energy is available to do work as it is transferred between systems is incorrect.
8.
Which of the following would be examples of mass wasting events?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
All of the given options, avalanches, mudslides, and rockslides, are examples of mass wasting events. Mass wasting refers to the downward movement of rock, soil, or sediment under the influence of gravity. Avalanches involve the rapid movement of snow, mudslides involve the movement of wet soil and debris, and rockslides involve the movement of rocks down a slope. Therefore, all of these events fit the definition of mass wasting.
9.
What is the zone of tolerance where species can live but with difficulty?
Correct Answer
D. Zone of pHysiological Stress
Explanation
The correct answer is "Zone of Physiological Stress." The zone of physiological stress refers to the range of environmental conditions in which a species can survive but with difficulty. These conditions may include extreme temperatures, limited resources, or high levels of pollution. Within this zone, individuals may experience reduced growth, reproduction, or increased susceptibility to diseases. It represents the threshold beyond which the species may struggle to adapt and survive in its habitat.
10.
A gold ingot is an element because it is composed of one type of atom
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because an element is defined as a substance that is made up of only one type of atom. Since a gold ingot is composed of gold atoms, it qualifies as an element.
11.
The Himalaya mountain range is the best of transverse plate boundaries
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Himalaya mountain range is not formed at a transverse plate boundary. It is actually formed at a convergent plate boundary where the Indian plate is colliding with the Eurasian plate. This collision has resulted in the uplift of the Himalayas, making it the highest mountain range in the world. Therefore, the statement that the Himalayas are the best of transverse plate boundaries is incorrect.
12.
What happens when two different species occupy the same niche?
Correct Answer
B. They will directly compete with each other
Explanation
When two different species occupy the same niche, they will directly compete with each other. This is because they both require the same resources and have similar ecological roles in the ecosystem. As a result, they will compete for food, territory, mates, and other essential resources, leading to a struggle for survival. This competition can have various outcomes, such as one species outcompeting the other, both species coexisting but with reduced population sizes, or one species adapting and evolving to occupy a slightly different niche.
13.
Subduction sones happen when granitic crust slides underneath another plate
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Subduction zones occur when oceanic crust slides underneath another plate, not granitic crust. Granitic crust is typically found on continental plates, while oceanic crust is denser and found on oceanic plates. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
14.
A Subductiin zone is a type of convergent plate boundary
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A subduction zone is indeed a type of convergent plate boundary. In this type of boundary, two tectonic plates collide, and one plate is forced beneath the other into the Earth's mantle. This process is known as subduction. Subduction zones are characterized by intense geological activity, including the formation of volcanoes, earthquakes, and the creation of deep ocean trenches. Therefore, the statement "A Subduction zone is a type of convergent plate boundary" is true.
15.
What is the highest level of taxonomy?
Correct Answer
D. Domain
Explanation
Domain is the highest level of taxonomy. Taxonomy is the science of classification, and it categorizes organisms into different levels based on their characteristics and evolutionary relationships. The highest level is the domain, followed by kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. The domain is broader and encompasses multiple kingdoms, while the other options (phylum, kingdom, and family) are lower levels in the hierarchy.
16.
Out of all the geologic disasters, floods are perhaps the most expensive to recover from
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Floods are considered the most expensive geologic disasters to recover from due to the extensive damage they cause to infrastructure, homes, and agriculture. The costs associated with repairing and rebuilding damaged buildings, roads, and bridges, as well as the loss of crops and livestock, can be astronomical. Additionally, floods often result in the displacement of people, leading to the need for temporary housing and assistance programs. The long-term economic impact of floods can be significant, making them the most costly geologic disasters to recover from.
17.
Beachfront property, some of the most expensive property in the world, suffers greatly from erosion
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Beachfront property is indeed some of the most expensive property in the world. This is because it offers stunning views and easy access to the beach. However, it also suffers greatly from erosion. The constant action of waves, tides, and storms can cause the beach to erode over time, threatening the stability of the property. This erosion can lead to the loss of land and even damage to the structures built on the beachfront. Therefore, it is true that beachfront property suffers greatly from erosion.
18.
When predator and prey evolve and change at the same rate, it is known as...
Correct Answer
C. Co-evolution
Explanation
Co-evolution occurs when two or more species influence each other's evolution over time. In the case of predators and prey, they constantly adapt and counter-adapt to each other's strategies, resulting in a reciprocal evolutionary relationship. This process can lead to the development of specialized adaptations and behaviors in both predator and prey species, ultimately shaping their survival and reproductive success. Co-evolution is a dynamic and ongoing process that occurs when there is a strong selective pressure between interacting species.
19.
What is the best way to describe the Rule of 10%?
Correct Answer
B. Only 10% of energy is transferred between tropic levels
Explanation
The Rule of 10% states that only 10% of energy is transferred between trophic levels in an ecosystem. This means that as energy moves from one level to the next (such as from plants to herbivores to carnivores), only a small fraction of the energy is passed on. The rest of the energy is lost as heat or used by the organism for its own metabolic processes. This rule helps to explain why food chains and food webs in ecosystems are typically limited in length, as the energy available becomes progressively less as you move up the trophic levels.
20.
What type of relationship has one species benefiting and other unaffected?
Correct Answer
A. Commensalism
Explanation
Commensalism is a type of relationship where one species benefits while the other remains unaffected. In this relationship, the benefiting species gains an advantage, such as shelter or food, without causing harm or benefit to the other species. This is different from mutualism, where both species benefit, symbiotic relationships, where both species depend on each other, and parasitism, where one species benefits at the expense of the other.
21.
What is the difference between science and pseudoscience? Give an example of each
22.
What separates secondary succession from primary succesion?
Correct Answer
D. Soil levels are already in place
Explanation
Secondary succession differs from primary succession because in secondary succession, the soil levels are already in place. This means that the area where secondary succession occurs already has a layer of soil that contains nutrients and microorganisms, which can support the growth of new plant life. In contrast, primary succession starts from bare rock or soil with very little organic matter, and organisms must gradually establish the soil and nutrient levels over time.
23.
Which region in the world has some of the largest issues with deforestation?
Correct Answer
B. Central Africa
Explanation
Central Africa is the correct answer because it is known to have some of the largest issues with deforestation. The region is home to the Congo Basin, which is the second-largest tropical rainforest in the world. However, deforestation rates in Central Africa have been alarmingly high due to factors such as logging, agriculture expansion, and infrastructure development. This has led to significant loss of biodiversity, carbon emissions, and disruption of local communities and indigenous peoples who depend on the forest for their livelihoods.
24.
What term describes the limit of a species population?
Correct Answer
C. Carrying Capacity
Explanation
Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals of a species that can be sustained in a given habitat without depleting the available resources. It represents the limit of a species population that can be supported by the environment. When a population reaches its carrying capacity, the birth rate equals the death rate, resulting in a stable population size. This term is commonly used in ecology to understand the dynamics of population growth and the factors that influence it.
25.
What species would be an example of K-selected species?
Correct Answer
B. Whales
Explanation
Whales would be an example of K-selected species because they have a long lifespan, a low reproductive rate, and invest a lot of time and energy into raising their offspring. K-selected species typically have few offspring but provide extensive parental care, ensuring the survival and success of each individual. Whales exhibit these characteristics, making them a suitable example of a K-selected species.
26.
Why are indigenous people "protectors of biodiversity "?
Correct Answer
C. They're most in tune with their environment
Explanation
Indigenous people are considered "protectors of biodiversity" because they are most in tune with their environment. They have a deep understanding of their surroundings, including the plants, animals, and ecosystems that exist in their territories. Their traditional knowledge and practices have been passed down through generations, allowing them to live in harmony with nature and sustainably manage their resources. By preserving their traditional ways of life, indigenous people contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of fragile ecosystems.
27.
What are the three different types of mining, and how do they work?
28.
Which biogeochemical cycle cannot be transported through the atmosphere?
Correct Answer
B. pHospHorus
Explanation
Phosphorus is the correct answer because it is primarily found in rocks and minerals, and it does not readily exist in gaseous form. Unlike other biogeochemical cycles such as oxygen, carbon, and sulfur, phosphorus does not undergo significant atmospheric transport. It mainly cycles through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, with weathering and erosion of rocks releasing phosphorus into the soil and water, where it is taken up by plants and then transferred through the food chain.
29.
What are two different types of modern extraction process, and what sort of pollution can they cause?
30.
What biome has high precipitation, a low range of temperature, and high average temperatures?
Correct Answer
D. Tropical Rainforest
Explanation
Tropical rainforests have high precipitation, with an average annual rainfall of 80 to 400 inches. They also have high average temperatures, usually ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Although they have a high average temperature, they have a low temperature range, with minimal seasonal variations. This makes the tropical rainforest the correct answer as it fulfills all the given criteria.
31.
Which region in the world has the lowest GDP per capita and low economic?
Correct Answer
D. Africa
Explanation
Africa has the lowest GDP per capita and low economic development compared to the other regions mentioned. This is due to various factors such as widespread poverty, political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare. These challenges have hindered economic growth and development in many African countries, resulting in low GDP per capita and overall economic performance.
32.
What is the best indicator of quality of life?
Correct Answer
A. GDP per capita
Explanation
GDP per capita is considered the best indicator of quality of life because it measures the average economic well-being of individuals in a country. It takes into account the total economic output (GDP) divided by the population, giving an indication of the standard of living and income distribution. A higher GDP per capita suggests a higher standard of living, better access to resources, and opportunities for individuals, which are important factors in determining the overall quality of life in a country.
33.
Rapidly changing biomes over altitude rather than longitude is known as what?
Correct Answer
C. Vertical Zonation
Explanation
Vertical zonation refers to the pattern of rapidly changing biomes over altitude rather than longitude. This means that as you move up or down in elevation, you will encounter different ecosystems and biomes. This is due to the fact that altitude affects temperature, precipitation, and other environmental factors, leading to distinct vegetation and animal communities at different elevations. Therefore, vertical zonation is the correct term to describe this phenomenon.
34.
What are the two types of environment?
Correct Answer
B. Social and pHysical
Explanation
The two types of environment are social and physical. Social environment refers to the interactions, relationships, and behaviors of individuals within a society or community. It includes factors such as culture, social norms, and social structures. Physical environment, on the other hand, refers to the natural surroundings and conditions in which organisms live. It includes elements such as landforms, climate, natural resources, and ecosystems. These two types of environment are distinct but interconnected, as social factors can be influenced by the physical environment and vice versa.
35.
What biomes have large range of temperatures, little precipitation, and extreme seasons?
Correct Answer
A. Boreal Forest
Explanation
The correct answer is Boreal Forest. Boreal forests, also known as taiga, are characterized by their large temperature range, little precipitation, and extreme seasons. They are found in high-latitude regions, such as Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia, where the winters are long and cold, and the summers are short and cool. These forests experience low amounts of rainfall and have a wide temperature range, with temperatures dropping below freezing in winter and rising above freezing in summer. This combination of factors creates a challenging environment for plant and animal life.
36.
If an area receives less than 10 inches of precipitation in a year, what type of biome is it?
Correct Answer
C. Desert
Explanation
If an area receives less than 10 inches of precipitation in a year, it is classified as a desert biome. Deserts are characterized by their extremely dry conditions and lack of water, making them inhospitable for most forms of life. The limited amount of rainfall in these areas prevents the growth of vegetation and contributes to the arid climate.
37.
Which area would not be best represented by a temperate grassland?
Correct Answer
B. The Kalahari
Explanation
The Kalahari would not be best represented by a temperate grassland because it is a semi-arid desert region located in southern Africa. Temperate grasslands are characterized by moderate temperatures and abundant grasses, while the Kalahari is known for its arid climate and sparse vegetation. Therefore, the Kalahari does not fit the criteria for a temperate grassland ecosystem.
38.
Which country is not a powerhouse in producing precious metals?
Correct Answer
A. Chile
Explanation
Chile is not a powerhouse in producing precious metals because it does not have significant reserves or production of gold, silver, or other precious metals compared to other countries like the USA, Russia, and Australia.
39.
Which is only continent to not contain a desert?
Correct Answer
D. Europe
Explanation
Europe is the only continent that does not contain a desert. This is because Europe's climate is mostly temperate, with a mix of maritime and continental influences, which prevents the formation of deserts. The other continents, Asia, South America, and Australia, have regions that are arid and have deserts such as the Gobi Desert in Asia, the Atacama Desert in South America, and the Great Victoria Desert in Australia.
40.
At what rate is the world's population increasing by?
Correct Answer
B. Exponential
Explanation
The correct answer is Exponential. This is because the world's population is increasing at an exponential rate, meaning that the growth is accelerating over time. This can be observed through the fact that the population has been steadily increasing at a faster pace in recent years.
41.
What types of industrial complex relies mostly on recycled material to produce new iron and steel?
Correct Answer
C. Minimills
Explanation
Minimills rely mostly on recycled material to produce new iron and steel. These industrial complexes use scrap metal as their primary source of raw material, which is melted down and processed to create new steel products. By utilizing recycled material, minimills contribute to sustainable practices and reduce the need for extracting and processing virgin iron ore, making them an environmentally friendly option for steel production.
42.
What is the driest desert in the world?
Correct Answer
B. The Atacama (Chile)
Explanation
The Atacama Desert in Chile is considered the driest desert in the world. It receives very little rainfall and has extremely low humidity levels. The combination of its location near the Pacific Ocean, the presence of the Andes Mountains, and the cold Humboldt Current contribute to the desert's aridity. The Atacama Desert is characterized by vast stretches of barren land, salt flats, and unique rock formations. Its extreme dryness and lack of vegetation make it one of the most inhospitable places on Earth.
43.
The USA uses about false 50% of the worlds resources despite having only 5% of the worlds population
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. The USA does not use about 50% of the world's resources despite having only 5% of the world's population. While the USA is one of the largest consumers of resources, it does not account for half of the world's resource consumption. This statistic may have been exaggerated or misunderstood.
44.
Which area is not best represented by a tropical rainforest?
Correct Answer
A. The Yucatan Peninsula
Explanation
The Yucatan Peninsula is not best represented by a tropical rainforest because it is mainly characterized by a tropical savanna climate, with a mixture of grasslands and shrublands, rather than dense rainforests. The region experiences a distinct dry season, which is not typical of tropical rainforest areas. In contrast, the Amazon Basin, the Congo, and Indonesia are well-known for their extensive tropical rainforests and high levels of rainfall throughout the year.
45.
What term describes the idea of meeting our current needs without compromising the needs of future generations?
Correct Answer
B. Sustainable Development
Explanation
Sustainable development refers to the concept of meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves finding ways to balance economic, social, and environmental factors to ensure long-term well-being for all. Conservation focuses more on protecting and preserving natural resources, while recycling refers to the process of converting waste materials into reusable materials. Preservation, on the other hand, emphasizes the protection and maintenance of historical or cultural artifacts. Therefore, sustainable development best encompasses the idea of meeting current needs without compromising the needs of future generations.
46.
What is another name (or another type) of tundra?
Correct Answer
A. Alpine
Explanation
Alpine is another name or type of tundra. The term "alpine" refers to high-altitude areas, typically above the tree line, where the climate is cold and harsh, similar to tundra regions. These areas are characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, and a lack of trees. The vegetation in alpine regions consists of low-lying plants, shrubs, and grasses that are adapted to survive in the harsh conditions. Therefore, alpine is a suitable alternative term for tundra.
47.
The Red Sea is one region that has issues of obtaining access to potable water
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Red Sea is indeed one region that faces challenges in obtaining access to potable water. This can be attributed to several factors such as limited freshwater sources, high population growth, and increasing water demand for various purposes including agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Additionally, the region also experiences water scarcity due to climate change, desertification, and inadequate infrastructure for water storage and distribution. These factors contribute to the difficulty in ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of safe drinking water for the population in the Red Sea region.
48.
How many Laws of Thermodynamics did we look at in this class?
Correct Answer
D. 2
Explanation
In this class, we looked at two Laws of Thermodynamics. The Laws of Thermodynamics are fundamental principles that govern energy transfer and transformation in physical systems. The first law states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. The second law states that the entropy of an isolated system always increases over time. Therefore, the correct answer is 2.
49.
What is another name for a boreal forest?
Correct Answer
C. Taiga
Explanation
The correct answer is "Taiga." The taiga is another name for a boreal forest. It is characterized by its cold climate and dominated by coniferous trees such as spruce, fir, and pine. The taiga is found in high-latitude regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species adapted to the harsh conditions of the boreal ecosystem.
50.
Close to 60% of the worlds population lives in poverty by USA standards
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement that close to 60% of the world's population lives in poverty by USA standards is false. This means that less than 60% of the world's population lives in poverty according to the standards set by the USA.