1.
The construction of a new coal-burning power plant would have the greatest impact on which environmental issue?
Correct Answer
C. Production of acid rain
Explanation
The construction of a new coal-burning power plant would have the greatest impact on the production of acid rain. Coal combustion releases sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid. These acids then fall to the ground as acid rain, causing harm to ecosystems, damaging crops, and corroding buildings and infrastructure. Therefore, the construction of a new coal-burning power plant would contribute significantly to the production of acid rain.
2.
Virginia’s Great Dismal Swamp is largely a red maple forest. There used to be more bald cypress and white cedar trees in the area, but tree cutting and the prevention of natural forest fires have changed the balance of tree species. The balance has shifted because these actions have —
Correct Answer
D. Altered the pattern of succession in the swamp
Explanation
The balance of tree species in Virginia's Great Dismal Swamp has been altered due to tree cutting and the prevention of natural forest fires. These actions have disrupted the natural process of succession in the swamp, causing a shift in the dominant tree species.
3.
This food chain can be found in the coastal waters of Virginia. The population of which organisms in the food chain would be the first to decline if commercial fishing over-harvested shrimp?
Correct Answer
B. Damsel fish
Explanation
If commercial fishing over-harvested shrimp, the population of zooplankton would be the first to decline in this food chain. Zooplankton are a primary food source for shrimp, so if shrimp are over-harvested, there would be less food available for zooplankton. As a result, the population of zooplankton would decrease, which would then impact the population of damsel fish, as they rely on zooplankton as their main food source. The decline in damsel fish population would then have a cascading effect on the rest of the food chain, potentially impacting the populations of algae and barracuda as well.
4.
In a scientific experiment, how many independent variables should be tested at the same time?
Correct Answer
B. One
Explanation
In a scientific experiment, it is recommended to test only one independent variable at a time. This is because testing multiple independent variables simultaneously can make it difficult to determine which variable is causing the observed changes in the dependent variable. By testing only one independent variable, scientists can isolate its effects and gain a clearer understanding of its impact on the experiment's outcome.
5.
What will most likely happen if the human population continues to grow at current rates?
Correct Answer
A. There will be fewer resources available in the future
Explanation
As the human population continues to grow at current rates, the demand for resources such as food, water, and energy will also increase. This will lead to overconsumption and depletion of these resources, resulting in fewer resources being available in the future.
6.
Which environmental factor would cause the greatest decrease in the number of species of plants and animals living in some of the lakes in the United States?
Correct Answer
D. Acid rain
Explanation
Acid rain is the correct answer because it is a significant environmental factor that can have a detrimental impact on the number of species of plants and animals living in lakes. Acid rain is caused by the release of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide into the atmosphere, which then reacts with water vapor to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid. When acid rain falls into lakes, it lowers the pH levels of the water, making it more acidic. This change in pH can harm aquatic organisms, such as fish and amphibians, and also disrupt the balance of the ecosystem by affecting the availability of food and resources for other species.
7.
Which phrase best describes biodiversity?
Correct Answer
D. The number of species in an ecosystem
Explanation
Biodiversity refers to the variety of different species in an ecosystem. It is a measure of the richness and abundance of different organisms living in a particular area. The more diverse an ecosystem is, the higher its biodiversity. This includes both the number of species present and the genetic variation within those species. Biodiversity is important for the stability and functioning of ecosystems, as different species play different roles and contribute to the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem.
8.
Chemosynthesis is the process in which organisms
Correct Answer
A. Form carbohydrates using chemicals
Explanation
Chemosynthesis is the process in which organisms form carbohydrates using chemicals. This means that instead of relying on sunlight like photosynthesis, these organisms are able to produce their own energy by converting inorganic compounds into organic compounds. They use chemicals in their environment to create carbohydrates, which are essential for their growth and survival. This process is commonly found in deep-sea ecosystems where sunlight is not available, and it allows organisms to thrive in these extreme environments.
9.
A bond that is formed when two atoms share electrons is called a ___.
Correct Answer
A. Covalent bond
Explanation
A covalent bond is formed when two atoms share electrons. This type of bond occurs between nonmetal atoms and is characterized by the equal sharing of electrons between the atoms involved. Covalent bonds are strong and stable, and they play a crucial role in the formation of molecules and compounds.
10.
The picture at the right is an example of a(n) ___.
Correct Answer
C. Atomic model
Explanation
The given picture is an example of an atomic model. Atomic models are representations of atoms that help scientists understand their structure and behavior. They show the arrangement of protons, neutrons, and electrons within an atom. These models are used to visualize and explain various atomic phenomena and properties.