Test Your Planet Knowledge: Take The Earth Science Quiz Today!

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Willena Brooks
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  • 1/40 Questions

    The word geocentric means Earth-centered.

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz

The Earth Science quiz invites you to explore how well they truly understand our planet's intricate workings. From geological formations and rock cycles to weather patterns and natural phenomena, this academic quiz thoughtfully covers critical aspects of Earth science that form the foundation of our everyday environment.

Engaging and insightful, each question provides an opportunity to demonstrate your grasp of how Earth's systems interact, influence each other, and impact the environment around us. Your participation will highlight strengths, pinpoint areas needing improvement, and deepen your appreciation of the scientific processes shaping our planet every day.
Disclaimer: This quiz serves educational purposes exclusively and is intended to support and evaluate knowledge in Earth Science. It should complement, not replace, formal instruction or professional academic guidance.

Test Your Planet Knowledge: Take The Earth Science Quiz Today! - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    The smallest particle of an element; the basic building block of matter

    • Atoms

    • Protons

    • Neutrons

    • Electrons

    Correct Answer
    A. Atoms
    Explanation
    Atoms are the smallest particles of an element and they are considered to be the basic building blocks of matter. Atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge, and electrons have a negative charge. Together, these subatomic particles make up the structure of an atom. Therefore, atoms are the correct answer as they are the fundamental units that make up all matter.

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  • 3. 

    The word heliocentric means Earth-centered.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The word heliocentric actually means Sun-centered, not Earth-centered. This term is often used in astronomy to describe the model in which the Sun is at the center of the solar system, and the planets, including Earth, revolve around it. This concept was proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century, challenging the prevailing belief that Earth was at the center of the universe.

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  • 4. 

    Distance in degrees north or south of the equator is known as

    • GPS

    • Longitude

    • Latitude

    • SI

    Correct Answer
    A. Latitude
    Explanation
    Latitude is the correct answer because it refers to the distance in degrees north or south of the equator. It is used to determine the location of a point on the Earth's surface in relation to the equator. Longitude, on the other hand, refers to the distance in degrees east or west of the prime meridian. GPS is a system used for determining precise location on Earth, and SI stands for the International System of Units.

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  • 5. 

    The area between the land and sea that is covered by water at high tide and uncovered at low tide.

    • Neritic zone

    • Intertidal zone

    • Photic zone

    • Aphotic zone

    Correct Answer
    A. Intertidal zone
    Explanation
    The intertidal zone refers to the area between the land and sea that is covered by water at high tide and uncovered at low tide. This zone experiences regular changes in water level, exposure to air, and fluctuating conditions, making it a unique and dynamic habitat. Organisms in the intertidal zone have adapted to withstand these challenging conditions, such as waves, temperature variations, and desiccation. This zone is also rich in biodiversity, supporting a variety of marine plants and animals that have evolved specific adaptations to survive in this transitional zone.

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  • 6. 

    In Earth Science, exfoliation is the stripping away of a rocks outer layers, much like the peels of an onion.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Exfoliation in Earth Science refers to the process of stripping away the outer layers of a rock, similar to peeling the layers of an onion. This natural phenomenon occurs due to various factors such as weathering, expansion, and contraction of rocks caused by temperature changes. Over time, the outer layers of the rock become weakened and start to break away, resulting in exfoliation. Therefore, the given statement that exfoliation is the stripping away of a rock's outer layers, like an onion's peels, is true.

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  • 7. 

    A large artificial satellite used as a long-term base for manned operations in space

    • Space shuttle

    • Space probe

    • Space station

    • Satellite

    Correct Answer
    A. Space station
    Explanation
    A space station is a large artificial satellite that serves as a long-term base for manned operations in space. It is designed to support human habitation and scientific research. Unlike space shuttles and space probes, which are used for specific missions and have limited duration, a space station is intended to remain in space for extended periods of time. Therefore, a space station is the most suitable option for a long-term base for manned operations in space.

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  • 8. 

    Tiny atomic particle that has a positive electrical charge

    • Atoms

    • Protons

    • Neutrons

    • Electrons

    Correct Answer
    A. Protons
    Explanation
    Protons are tiny atomic particles that have a positive electrical charge. They are found within the nucleus of an atom and are one of the three main subatomic particles, along with neutrons and electrons. Protons play a crucial role in determining the identity and properties of an atom, as the number of protons in the nucleus determines the atomic number and therefore the element.

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  • 9. 

    What is the chemical reaction of oxygen with other substances called?

    • Precipitation

    • Hydrolysis

    • Oxidation

    • Humidity

    Correct Answer
    A. Oxidation
    Explanation
    Oxidation is the correct answer because it refers to the chemical reaction of oxygen with other substances. In an oxidation reaction, oxygen atoms gain electrons, resulting in the oxidation of the other substance involved. This reaction is commonly seen in processes such as rusting, combustion, and respiration. Precipitation refers to the formation of a solid from a solution, hydrolysis is the reaction of a compound with water, and humidity is the amount of water vapor present in the air.

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  • 10. 

    The International Measurement System is affectionately called

    • GPS

    • Longitude

    • Latitude

    • SI

    Correct Answer
    A. SI
    Explanation
    SI stands for the International System of Units, which is commonly known as the metric system. It is an internationally recognized measurement system used in science, industry, and everyday life. The SI system provides a standardized set of units for measuring physical quantities such as length, mass, time, temperature, and more. It is widely used across the globe to ensure consistency and accuracy in measurements. Therefore, the correct answer is SI.

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  • 11. 

    Tiny atomic particle that has no electrical charge

    • Atoms

    • Protons

    • Neutrons

    • Electrons

    Correct Answer
    A. Neutrons
    Explanation
    Neutrons are tiny atomic particles that have no electrical charge. Unlike protons and electrons, which carry positive and negative charges respectively, neutrons are neutral. They are found within the nucleus of an atom along with protons, and together they make up the majority of an atom's mass. Neutrons play a crucial role in determining the stability and properties of an atom, as well as in nuclear reactions and energy production.

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  • 12. 

    An artificial body placed in orbit in order to collect information or for communication

    • Space shuttle

    • Space station

    • Space probe

    • Satellite

    Correct Answer
    A. Satellite
    Explanation
    A satellite is an artificial body placed in orbit for various purposes such as collecting information or facilitating communication. Satellites are used for a wide range of applications including weather forecasting, navigation systems, telecommunications, and scientific research. They are designed to orbit around the Earth or other celestial bodies, allowing them to gather data or transmit signals back to Earth. Satellites play a crucial role in modern technology and have revolutionized communication and information gathering capabilities.

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  • 13. 

    Tiny atomic particle with little mass and a negative electrical charge

    • Atoms

    • Protons

    • Neutrons

    • Electrons

    Correct Answer
    A. Electrons
    Explanation
    Electrons are tiny atomic particles with little mass and a negative electrical charge. They are found outside the nucleus of an atom and are responsible for the electrical conductivity and chemical reactions of substances. Protons and neutrons are also atomic particles, but they have larger masses and are found in the nucleus of an atom. Atoms, on the other hand, are the basic units of matter and are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Therefore, electrons are the correct answer as they fit the description of being tiny, having little mass, and having a negative charge.

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  • 14. 

    Erosion is the opposite of deposition, these processes complement each other in our Earth system.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Erosion and deposition are two processes that work together in the Earth system. Erosion refers to the removal and transportation of sediment, while deposition is the process of depositing sediment in a new location. These processes are interconnected and often occur simultaneously. For example, as a river erodes its banks, it also deposits sediment downstream. Similarly, wind erosion can lead to the deposition of sediment in a different area. Therefore, erosion and deposition are indeed opposite processes that complement each other in shaping the Earth's surface.

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  • 15. 

    The upper layer of a body of water which allows enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur.

    • Neritic zone

    • Intertidal zone

    • Photic zone

    • Aphotic zone

    Correct Answer
    A. Photic zone
    Explanation
    The photic zone refers to the upper layer of a body of water that receives enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur. This zone is characterized by its ability to support plant and algae growth due to the availability of sunlight. As sunlight penetrates the water, it provides the necessary energy for photosynthetic organisms to convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into oxygen and organic compounds. The photic zone is important for sustaining marine ecosystems as it supports a diverse range of primary producers and subsequently influences the entire food chain.

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  • 16. 

    The seasons we experience on Earth are a result of the

    • Gravitational pull of the Moon

    • Rotation of the Earth

    • Wind, waves and jet streams

    • Tilt of the Earth on its axis

    Correct Answer
    A. Tilt of the Earth on its axis
    Explanation
    The seasons we experience on Earth are a result of the tilt of the Earth on its axis. This tilt causes the angle at which sunlight reaches different parts of the Earth to change throughout the year. When one hemisphere is tilted towards the Sun, it receives more direct sunlight and experiences summer, while the other hemisphere is tilted away and experiences winter. As the Earth orbits the Sun, the tilt causes the seasons to change.

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  • 17. 

    A rocket-propelled guided missile that can escape earth's atmosphere, used to make observations of the solar system

    • Space shuttle

    • Space station

    • Space probe

    • Satellite

    Correct Answer
    A. Space probe
    Explanation
    A space probe is a rocket-propelled guided missile that can escape Earth's atmosphere and is used to make observations of the solar system. It is designed to explore and gather data about celestial bodies such as planets, moons, and asteroids. Unlike space shuttles and space stations, which are used for human space travel and habitation, a space probe is unmanned and is specifically built for scientific research and exploration purposes. Satellites, on the other hand, are objects that orbit around a larger body, such as a planet or a star, and can be used for various purposes such as communication or weather monitoring.

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  • 18. 

    A solution is

    • A combination of substances in which individual parts retain their own properties

    • The movement of particles from area of high concentration to lower concentration

    • A mixture in which one or more substances are evenly distributed in another substance

    • The smallest particle of an element that has the characteristics

    Correct Answer
    A. A mixture in which one or more substances are evenly distributed in another substance
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "a mixture in which one or more substances are evenly distributed in another substance". This answer accurately describes a solution, which is a type of mixture where the components are evenly distributed and retain their own properties.

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  • 19. 

    A Karst formation consists of

    • Land area drained by a stream system

    • Broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a streams bank that may be covered with water

    • Irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone

    • Permeable underground layer through which water flows easily

    Correct Answer
    A. Irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone
    Explanation
    A Karst formation consists of irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone. This means that the land area has a unique and uneven surface due to the erosion and dissolution of limestone rocks. Sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams are common features in Karst formations, as the limestone dissolves and creates cavities underground. These formations are characterized by their distinctive landscape and are often associated with underground drainage systems and the presence of caves.

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  • 20. 

    A watershed is a

    • Land area drained by a stream system

    • Broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a streams bank that may be covered with water

    • Irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone

    • Permeable underground layer through which water flows easily

    Correct Answer
    A. Land area drained by a stream system
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "land area drained by a stream system." This means that a watershed refers to the area of land where all the water that falls within it, such as rainfall or snowmelt, flows into a common stream or river. It includes all the surface water and groundwater that contributes to the stream system. Watersheds are important because they play a crucial role in the water cycle and can affect the quality and quantity of water available in a particular region.

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  • 21. 

    A rocket-launched spacecraft, used to make repeated journeys

    • Space shuttle

    • Space station

    • Space probe

    • Satellite

    Correct Answer
    A. Space shuttle
    Explanation
    A space shuttle is a rocket-launched spacecraft that is designed for repeated journeys between Earth and space. Unlike other options such as a space station, space probe, or satellite, a space shuttle is specifically built to carry astronauts and cargo into space and return them safely back to Earth. It is a reusable vehicle that can be launched multiple times, making it an ideal choice for missions that require regular trips between Earth and space.

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  • 22. 

    Distance in degrees east and west of the prime meridian is called

    • GPS

    • Longitude

    • Latitude

    • SI

    Correct Answer
    A. Longitude
    Explanation
    Longitude is the correct answer because it refers to the distance in degrees east and west of the prime meridian. The prime meridian is the starting point for measuring longitude and runs through Greenwich, London. Longitude is used to determine a location's position in the east-west direction on the Earth's surface.

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  • 23. 

    A mixture refers to

    • The smallest particle of an element that has the characteristics of that element

    • A combination of substances in which individual parts retain their own properties

    • The movement of particles from area of high concentration to lower concentration

    • A mixture in which one or more substances are evenly distributed in another substance

    Correct Answer
    A. A combination of substances in which individual parts retain their own properties
    Explanation
    A mixture refers to a combination of substances in which individual parts retain their own properties. This means that in a mixture, the substances are physically mixed together, but they do not chemically react with each other or lose their individual characteristics. Each substance in the mixture maintains its own properties and can be separated from the mixture using physical methods such as filtration or distillation.

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  • 24. 

    What is the underlying force of all agents of erosion?

    • Magnetism

    • Gravity

    • Friction

    • Light

    Correct Answer
    A. Gravity
    Explanation
    Gravity is the underlying force of all agents of erosion because it is responsible for the movement of materials downhill. Gravity pulls objects and materials towards the center of the Earth, causing them to move from higher to lower elevations. This movement, combined with other factors such as water, wind, and ice, leads to the erosion of rocks, soil, and other geological formations. Friction, magnetism, and light do not play a significant role in the erosion process compared to the force of gravity.

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  • 25. 

    Igneous rocks  can be intrusive or extrusive.  Extrusive rocks form beneath Earth's crust.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Extrusive rocks actually form on the Earth's surface, not beneath the crust. Igneous rocks can be intrusive or extrusive, with intrusive rocks forming beneath the Earth's surface and extrusive rocks forming on the surface. Therefore, the statement that extrusive rocks form beneath the Earth's crust is incorrect.

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  • 26. 

    An aquifer is a

    • Land area drained by a stream system

    • Broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a streams bank that may be covered with water

    • Irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone

    • Permeable underground layer through which water flows easily

    Correct Answer
    A. Permeable underground layer through which water flows easily
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "permeable underground layer through which water flows easily." An aquifer refers to a layer of rock or sediment that is capable of storing and transmitting water. It acts as a natural underground reservoir, allowing water to flow through it easily due to its permeability. This characteristic is essential for the aquifer to provide a sustainable supply of water to wells and springs.

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  • 27. 

    A flood plain is a

    • Land area drained by a stream system

    • Broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a streams bank that may be covered with water

    • Irregular topography with sinkholes, sinks, and sinking streams caused by dissolution of limestone

    • Permeable underground layer through which water flows easily

    Correct Answer
    A. Broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a streams bank that may be covered with water
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "broad, flat, fertile area extending out from a stream's bank that may be covered with water." This answer accurately describes a flood plain, which is a low-lying area adjacent to a stream or river that is prone to flooding. Flood plains are typically flat and fertile due to the deposition of sediment carried by the water during floods. They serve as important natural buffers that can absorb excess water during heavy rainfall or snowmelt, reducing the risk of downstream flooding.

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  • 28. 

    The earth revolves once every

    • Day

    • Month

    • Season

    • Year

    Correct Answer
    A. Year
    Explanation
    The earth revolves once every year. This refers to the Earth's movement around the sun in its orbit. It takes approximately 365.25 days for the Earth to complete one orbit around the sun, resulting in the length of a year. This revolution is responsible for the changes in seasons and the different positions of the sun in the sky throughout the year.

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  • 29. 

    The earth rotates once every

    • Day

    • Month

    • Season

    • Year

    Correct Answer
    A. Day
    Explanation
    The earth rotates once every day. This means that it completes one full rotation on its axis in approximately 24 hours. This rotation is what causes day and night on earth. As the earth rotates, different parts of the planet are exposed to the sun's light, creating daytime, while other parts are facing away from the sun, creating nighttime. The concept of a day is based on this rotation, and it is the fundamental unit of time measurement on earth.

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  • 30. 

    A natural object originating in outer space that survives impact with the Earth's surface is

    • An asteroid

    • A meteoroid

    • A meteorite

    • A meteor

    Correct Answer
    A. A meteorite
    Explanation
    A natural object originating in outer space that survives impact with the Earth's surface is a meteorite. When an asteroid or meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere and withstands the intense heat and friction, it becomes a meteor. However, if it manages to reach the Earth's surface without completely burning up, it is then classified as a meteorite.

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  • 31. 

    Soil is composed entirely of abiotic factors.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Soil is not composed entirely of abiotic factors. While abiotic factors such as minerals, water, and air play a crucial role in soil composition, soil also contains a significant amount of biotic factors such as microorganisms, plants, and animals. These biotic factors contribute to the organic matter and nutrient content of the soil, making it a dynamic and complex ecosystem. Therefore, the statement that soil is composed entirely of abiotic factors is false.

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  • 32. 

    In which step of the water cycle does water change from a water vapor to a liquid?

    • Evaporation

    • Precipitation

    • Condensation

    • Transpiration

    Correct Answer
    A. Condensation
    Explanation
    Condensation is the step of the water cycle where water vapor changes into a liquid. This occurs when the air cools down and cannot hold as much water vapor, causing the water vapor to condense and form water droplets. These droplets then come together to form clouds, fog, or dew. Therefore, condensation is the correct answer to the question.

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  • 33. 

    Sedimentary rocks are formed when existing rocks are subjected to high temperatures and pressure, causing compositional changes.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Sedimentary rocks are not formed when existing rocks are subjected to high temperatures and pressure. Instead, sedimentary rocks are formed through the process of sedimentation, where particles of rock, mineral, or organic material accumulate and are then compacted and cemented together over time. This process does not involve high temperatures and pressure. Therefore, the correct answer is false.

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  • 34. 

    Greater surface area speeds the process of weathering.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Greater surface area speeds up the process of weathering because it provides more exposed area for physical and chemical processes to act upon. When rocks or minerals are broken down into smaller pieces, the increased surface area allows for more contact with water, air, and other agents of weathering, resulting in faster rates of erosion and decomposition. This is why larger rocks take longer to weather compared to smaller ones.

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  • 35. 

    Which is not an agent of chemical weathering?

    • Water

    • Oxygen

    • Carbon dioxide

    • Wind

    Correct Answer
    A. Wind
    Explanation
    Wind is not an agent of chemical weathering because it does not chemically react with rocks or minerals to break them down. While wind can physically weather rocks through processes like abrasion and erosion, it does not cause any chemical changes to the composition of the rocks. On the other hand, water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide are all agents of chemical weathering as they can chemically react with rocks and minerals, leading to their decomposition and alteration.

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  • 36. 

    Soils are being formed in all ecosystems at rapid rates, thus they are a very renewable resource.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The statement that soils are being formed at rapid rates in all ecosystems is incorrect. While soils do form naturally over time through weathering and decomposition of organic matter, the process is slow and can take hundreds or thousands of years. Additionally, human activities such as deforestation and improper land management can accelerate soil erosion and degradation, making it a non-renewable resource in some cases. Therefore, the given statement is false.

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  • 37. 

    Chemical weathering is the process of rocks breaking down into smaller and smaller pieces, and even different shapes.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Chemical weathering is not the process of rocks breaking down into smaller and smaller pieces, but rather the process of rocks being altered or dissolved through chemical reactions. This can result in changes to the composition and structure of the rocks, but not necessarily in their size or shape.

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  • 38. 

    A solid object moving in interplanetary space, larger than an atom but smaller than an asteroid is 

    • The asteroid belt

    • A meteoroid

    • A meteorite

    • A meteor

    Correct Answer
    A. A meteoroid
    Explanation
    A solid object moving in interplanetary space, larger than an atom but smaller than an asteroid is a meteoroid. Meteoroids are small rocky or metallic objects that orbit the sun and are smaller than asteroids. They are usually debris left behind by comets or asteroids. When a meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere and burns up, it is called a meteor. If any part of the meteoroid survives and lands on Earth, it is then called a meteorite. The asteroid belt is a region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter that contains numerous asteroids, which are much larger than meteoroids.

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  • 39. 

    What type of soil has the most humus?

    • Polar

    • Temperate

    • Tropical

    • Desert

    Correct Answer
    A. Temperate
    Explanation
    The correct answer is temperate. Temperate soils have the most humus because they are rich in organic matter, which is the result of the decomposition of plant and animal material. The moderate climate in temperate regions allows for the accumulation of organic matter over time, leading to the presence of a significant amount of humus in the soil. In contrast, polar soils are characterized by low temperatures and slow decomposition rates, while tropical soils are often nutrient-poor due to high rainfall and leaching. Desert soils, on the other hand, have limited organic matter due to arid conditions and lack of vegetation.

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  • 40. 

    When rock cools slowly beneath Earth's surface small crystals form.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    When rock cools slowly beneath Earth's surface, large crystals form. This is because slow cooling allows more time for the atoms to arrange themselves into a more ordered structure, resulting in larger crystals. Therefore, the statement that small crystals form when rock cools slowly beneath Earth's surface is incorrect.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Apr 10, 2025 +

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  • Apr 10, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Apr 02, 2014
    Quiz Created by
    Willena Brooks
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