Physical Science Exam Prep

Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Marshallje
M
Marshallje
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 22 | Total Attempts: 12,576
Questions: 41 | Attempts: 67

SettingsSettingsSettings
Physical Science Exam Prep - Quiz


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Where does the warm moist air  from tornadoes originate?

    • A.

      International Date Line

    • B.

      Canada

    • C.

      Gulf of Mexico

    • D.

      Zone of Saturation

    Correct Answer
    C. Gulf of Mexico
    Explanation
    Tornadoes are formed when warm, moist air meets cool, dry air. The Gulf of Mexico is known for its warm and moist air, which provides the necessary conditions for tornado formation. As the warm air from the Gulf of Mexico moves inland, it encounters cooler air and creates a stark temperature contrast that can lead to the development of tornadoes. Therefore, the warm moist air from tornadoes originates from the Gulf of Mexico.

    Rate this question:

  • 2. 

    Which way do tornadoes rotate in the Northern Hemisphere?

    • A.

      Clockwise

    • B.

      Counterclockwise

    Correct Answer
    B. Counterclockwise
    Explanation
    Tornadoes rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect. The Coriolis effect is caused by the rotation of the Earth and causes moving air to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere. This deflection results in a counterclockwise rotation of tornadoes and other cyclonic systems in this hemisphere.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    When the funnel cloud touches down,  it becomes a _______________________ .

    Correct Answer
    tornado
    Explanation
    When a funnel cloud touches down, it becomes a tornado. A funnel cloud is a rotating column of air that is not in contact with the ground, while a tornado is a violent and destructive rotating column of air that is in contact with the ground. Therefore, when a funnel cloud makes contact with the ground, it transforms into a tornado.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

        Warm air __________________________

    • A.

      Rises

    • B.

      Falls

    Correct Answer
    A. Rises
    Explanation
    Warm air rises because it is less dense than cold air. When air is heated, its molecules gain energy and move faster, causing them to spread out. This increased spacing between the molecules makes the warm air less dense than the surrounding cooler air. As a result, the warm air is buoyant and tends to rise above the denser, colder air. This process is known as convection and is responsible for the formation of many weather phenomena such as thunderstorms and wind currents.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    ______________ moist air meets a front layer of cool ___________ air, resulting in an _____________________.  Choose the words in correct order. 

    • A.

      Cool moist air-drift

    • B.

      Warm updraft dry

    • C.

      Moist cool air

    • D.

      Warm dry updraft

    Correct Answer
    D. Warm dry updraft
    Explanation
    When warm dry air meets a front layer of cool moist air, it creates an updraft.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    A storm begins with rain. hail, thunder and ___________________________ .

    Correct Answer
    lightning
    Explanation
    A storm begins with rain, hail, thunder, and lightning. Lightning is a natural electrical discharge that occurs during a storm. It is caused by the buildup of electrical charges in the atmosphere, which are then discharged through a sudden flash of light. Lightning is often accompanied by thunder, as the rapid expansion and contraction of air surrounding the lightning bolt creates a shockwave that we hear as thunder. Therefore, lightning is the missing element in the given sequence of events that typically occur during a storm.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    Which scientist recceived the Nobel Prize for his work on anaphylactic shock?

    • A.

      Charles Richet

    • B.

      Charles Darwin

    • C.

      Anthony Dumont

    • D.

      Angel Hernandez

    Correct Answer
    A. Charles Richet
    Explanation
    Charles Richet received the Nobel Prize for his work on anaphylactic shock.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    White blood cells produce ____________________________________________ .

    Correct Answer
    antibodies
    Explanation
    White blood cells are responsible for producing antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that are part of the immune system and help to identify and neutralize foreign substances, such as bacteria or viruses, in the body. They play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases. Therefore, it is correct to say that white blood cells produce antibodies.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    Do all antibodies destroy all bacteria?

    • A.

      Yes

    • B.

      No

    Correct Answer
    B. No
    Explanation
    Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of specific antigens, such as bacteria. However, not all antibodies are capable of destroying all bacteria. Antibodies work by binding to specific antigens on the surface of bacteria, marking them for destruction by other immune cells or neutralizing their harmful effects. The specificity of antibodies allows them to recognize and target only certain bacteria, while others may require different antibodies or immune responses for their elimination. Therefore, not all antibodies can destroy all bacteria.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    The left side of the brain specializes in ...

    • A.

      Corpus callosum

    • B.

      Emotions

    • C.

      Music

    • D.

      Analytical and verbal tasks

    Correct Answer
    D. Analytical and verbal tasks
    Explanation
    The left side of the brain is known to be responsible for analytical and verbal tasks. This is because it controls functions such as language processing, logical reasoning, and mathematical abilities. It is also involved in tasks that require sequential and logical thinking. The left side of the brain is typically associated with logical and analytical thinking, while the right side is more involved in creativity and emotions.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    Sperry received the prize for his discoveries concerning the functional specialization of the cerebral hemispheres.               What do you think cerebral hemispheres means?

    • A.

      Sun rotation

    • B.

      Desert areas

    • C.

      Brain halves

    • D.

      Head slices

    Correct Answer
    C. Brain halves
    Explanation
    The term "cerebral hemispheres" refers to the two halves of the brain, namely the left and right hemispheres. These hemispheres are responsible for different functions and are connected by a bundle of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum. Sperry received the prize for his discoveries related to the specialized functions of these brain halves.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    What is the biggest reason the Mississippi River is flooding?       _______________

    Correct Answer
    rain
    Explanation
    The biggest reason the Mississippi River is flooding is due to heavy rainfall.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    Which country is experiencing freak weather conditions this year?

    • A.

      Australia

    • B.

      United States

    • C.

      Peru

    • D.

      India

    Correct Answer
    B. United States
    Explanation
    The correct answer is United States. This year, the United States has been experiencing abnormal and extreme weather conditions. This includes severe storms, hurricanes, wildfires, heatwaves, and record-breaking temperatures. These weather events have caused significant damage and loss of life across different regions of the country.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

     A research group led by UpmanuLall  at Columbia University in New York had been trying to correlate a century's worth of floods in the Midwest to continent-wide weather patterns. What does correlate mean?

    • A.

      The interior of a global body

    • B.

      Determine if there is a relationship between

    • C.

      The area in the Midwest floods each century

    Correct Answer
    B. Determine if there is a relationship between
    Explanation
    Correlate means to determine if there is a relationship between two or more things. In this context, the research group led by UpmanuLall at Columbia University is trying to find if there is a connection between a century's worth of floods in the Midwest and continent-wide weather patterns. They are examining the data to see if there is a correlation or relationship between these two factors.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    What started a revolution int he development of human society?

    • A.

      Mediterrain weather

    • B.

      The lack of pests in the crescent zone

    • C.

      The improvement of cattle stalls

    • D.

      The diversity of agriculture

    Correct Answer
    D. The diversity of agriculture
    Explanation
    The diversity of agriculture started a revolution in the development of human society because it allowed for the cultivation of a variety of crops, which increased food production and led to the establishment of settled communities. This shift from a nomadic lifestyle to agriculture-based societies enabled the development of specialized skills, trade networks, and the growth of civilization as people no longer had to constantly search for food. Additionally, the diversity of agriculture provided a stable food supply, which allowed for population growth and the development of complex social structures.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    Early farmers hybridized wheat.  What do you think hybridized means?

    • A.

      A car that runs on electricity

    • B.

      A cross between to types of plants

    • C.

      A force of energy between atoms

    • D.

      A type of bridge that expands farms

    Correct Answer
    B. A cross between to types of plants
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "a cross between two types of plants." Hybridization in the context of farming refers to the process of combining two different varieties of plants to create a new hybrid variety with desired traits. This technique is commonly used in agriculture to improve crop yield, disease resistance, and other characteristics.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    What typlifies the industrial revolution?

    • A.

      Production of goods from small to large scale

    • B.

      Increase in farming production

    • C.

      Advanced technology applications

    • D.

      Increased demand for corn and wheat

    Correct Answer
    A. Production of goods from small to large scale
    Explanation
    The industrial revolution is typified by the production of goods from small to large scale. This refers to the shift from small-scale, cottage industry production to large-scale factory production that characterized the industrial revolution. This change was brought about by advancements in technology and the development of new machinery, which allowed for increased efficiency and productivity. The production of goods on a large scale also led to significant economic and social changes, including urbanization and the rise of capitalism.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    What are two valuable resources of the information age?

    • A.

      Information and communication

    • B.

      Farming and fishing

    • C.

      Computers and software

    • D.

      Machinery and factories

    Correct Answer
    A. Information and communication
    Explanation
    In the information age, information and communication are considered valuable resources. Information refers to the vast amount of data and knowledge available through various sources, such as the internet, databases, and research. Communication refers to the ability to connect and share information with others, whether through traditional means like phone calls and letters or through modern technologies like emails, social media, and video conferencing. These two resources are crucial for individuals, businesses, and organizations to stay informed, make informed decisions, collaborate, and stay connected in today's digital world.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    In developed countries, the population is getting:

    • A.

      Younger

    • B.

      Older

    • C.

      Smaller

    • D.

      Larger

    Correct Answer
    B. Older
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "older". In developed countries, the population is experiencing an increase in life expectancy and a decline in birth rates. This leads to a higher proportion of elderly individuals in the population, resulting in an aging population. This trend is often attributed to advancements in healthcare, improved living conditions, and changing societal norms. As a result, governments and societies need to address the challenges associated with an aging population, such as healthcare and pension systems, to ensure the well-being of older adults.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    What are three factors that influence fertility?

    • A.

      Availibility of birth control

    • B.

      Religious beliefs

    • C.

      Availibility of medical care

    • D.

      Cost of raising a child

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Availibility of birth control
    B. Religious beliefs
    D. Cost of raising a child
    Explanation
    The three factors that influence fertility are the availability of birth control, religious beliefs, and the cost of raising a child. The availability of birth control plays a significant role in determining fertility rates as it allows individuals to control when and if they want to have children. Religious beliefs can also impact fertility as some religions may encourage or discourage the use of birth control and have specific teachings on family planning. Additionally, the cost of raising a child can influence fertility rates as individuals may choose to have fewer children if they feel they cannot afford the expenses associated with child-rearing.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    Check three things that lower death rates.

    • A.

      Better health care

    • B.

      Stable food production

    • C.

      Better sanitation

    • D.

      Fossil fuels

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Better health care
    B. Stable food production
    C. Better sanitation
    Explanation
    The three things that lower death rates are better health care, stable food production, and better sanitation. These factors contribute to improved overall health and well-being of individuals and communities. Better health care ensures timely and effective medical interventions, reducing mortality rates. Stable food production ensures access to nutritious food, preventing malnutrition and related health issues. Better sanitation practices, such as clean water supply and proper waste management, reduce the spread of diseases. Fossil fuels, however, are not directly related to lowering death rates and may have negative impacts on health and the environment.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    What is immigration?

    • A.

      Movement of people into a region

    • B.

      Movement of people out of a region

    Correct Answer
    A. Movement of people into a region
    Explanation
    Immigration refers to the movement of people into a region. It involves individuals relocating from one country or region to another with the intention of establishing a new permanent residence. This process typically involves legal procedures such as obtaining visas or work permits. Immigration can be driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, political stability, and family reunification. It often contributes to cultural diversity and can have significant impacts on both the receiving country and the migrants themselves.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    What is human demography?

    • A.

      Demand area

    • B.

      Population change

    • C.

      Population decrease

    • D.

      When births exceed deaths

    Correct Answer
    B. Population change
    Explanation
    Human demography refers to the study of the characteristics and dynamics of human populations, including factors such as population size, distribution, and composition. It encompasses the analysis of population change over time, which includes both increases and decreases in population size. Therefore, the term "population change" accurately describes the concept of human demography as it encompasses all fluctuations in population size, regardless of whether it is an increase or decrease.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    Atomic Structure and Periodic Properties Negatively charged particle.

    • A.

      Proton

    • B.

      Electron

    • C.

      Neutron

    • D.

      Nucleus

    Correct Answer
    B. Electron
    Explanation
    An electron is a negatively charged particle that orbits around the nucleus of an atom. It has a very small mass compared to protons and neutrons, and it carries a charge of -1. Electrons are responsible for the majority of the chemical and physical properties of an element, as they participate in chemical reactions and determine the behavior of atoms in a compound.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    Atomic Structure and Periodic Properties Center of an atom

    • A.

      Proton

    • B.

      Electron

    • C.

      Neutron

    • D.

      Nucleus

    Correct Answer
    D. Nucleus
    Explanation
    The correct answer is nucleus because it is the central part of an atom where the protons and neutrons are located. The nucleus is positively charged due to the presence of protons and it contains most of the mass of the atom. Electrons, on the other hand, orbit around the nucleus in energy levels.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    Atomic Structure and Periodic Properties Why do alkali metals react violently?

    • A.

      Leads directly to chemical reactions

    • B.

      Because they have an electron alone in a sublevel

    • C.

      Alkali metals

    Correct Answer
    B. Because they have an electron alone in a sublevel
    Explanation
    Alkali metals react violently because they have an electron alone in a sublevel. This lone electron in the outermost energy level is easily lost, making alkali metals highly reactive. When they come into contact with water or air, they readily give up this electron, resulting in a rapid and often explosive reaction.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 

    Atomic Structure and Periodic Properties What are the outer electrons that predict a chemical's behavior?

    • A.

      Halogens

    • B.

      Noble gases

    • C.

      Valance electrons

    • D.

      Isotopes

    Correct Answer
    C. Valance electrons
    Explanation
    Valence electrons are the outermost electrons in an atom that are involved in chemical bonding. These electrons determine the chemical behavior of an atom and are responsible for the formation of chemical bonds with other atoms. The number of valence electrons determines an atom's ability to gain, lose, or share electrons, which in turn determines its reactivity and chemical properties. Therefore, valence electrons are crucial in predicting the behavior of a chemical.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 

    What is a tsunami? Anatomy A tsunami flood is capable of … (Check all that apply)

    • A.

      Lifting rocks

    • B.

      Destroying homes

    • C.

      Flip cars

    • D.

      None of the above

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Lifting rocks
    B. Destroying homes
    C. Flip cars
    Explanation
    A tsunami is a powerful ocean wave caused by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. It can cause significant destruction and devastation, including lifting rocks, destroying homes, and flipping cars. Tsunamis are known for their immense force and ability to impact coastal areas, causing widespread damage and loss of life.

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    What is a tsunami? Effects on Intensity                                          What are the two biggest factors that determine the size of a tsunami?

    • A.

      Magnitude: size of the earthquake

    • B.

      Distance from the shore

    • C.

      Depth of the water

    • D.

      None of the above

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Magnitude: size of the earthquake
    C. Depth of the water
    Explanation
    The size of a tsunami is determined by two factors: the magnitude of the earthquake and the depth of the water. The magnitude of the earthquake refers to the amount of energy released during the seismic event, which directly affects the size and strength of the resulting tsunami. The depth of the water also plays a crucial role as it determines how much the tsunami wave can build up and gain height as it approaches the shore. Therefore, both the magnitude of the earthquake and the depth of the water are significant factors in determining the size of a tsunami.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    What is a tsunami? Anatomy Tsunamis are barely noticeable in the open ocean.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Tsunamis are indeed barely noticeable in the open ocean. This is because they are characterized by long wavelengths and low wave heights, making them difficult to detect. It is only when these waves approach shallow waters near the coast that they can grow in height and become destructive. Therefore, in the vast expanse of the open ocean, tsunamis can go unnoticed and pose little threat.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 

    What is a tsunami? Anatomy   One of the first signs of a tsunami is...

    • A.

      A 100 foot high wave approaching the shore

    • B.

      The retreat of water from the shore

    • C.

      A warning alarm from the National Geology Warning System

    Correct Answer
    B. The retreat of water from the shore
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "the retreat of water from the shore." One of the first signs of a tsunami is the sudden and significant decrease in water level near the shoreline. This occurs because the approaching tsunami wave pulls back the water from the shore, creating a noticeable retreat of the water. This phenomenon is often observed before the actual arrival of the tsunami wave, serving as a warning sign for people near the coast to evacuate to higher ground to avoid the incoming tsunami.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    The onset of agriculture ____________________ the human population.

    • A.

      Increased

    • B.

      Decreased

    Correct Answer
    A. Increased
    Explanation
    The onset of agriculture led to an increase in the human population. This is because agriculture allowed for a more stable and abundant food supply, which in turn allowed for larger populations to be sustained. With the ability to grow crops and domesticate animals, humans were able to settle in one place and establish permanent settlements, leading to population growth over time.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Can exponential population growth occur forever?

    • A.

      YES

    • B.

      NO

    Correct Answer
    B. NO
    Explanation
    Exponential population growth cannot occur forever because it is limited by factors such as limited resources, environmental constraints, and carrying capacity. As the population increases, resources become scarce, leading to competition and eventually a decline in population growth. Additionally, environmental constraints such as pollution and habitat destruction can also limit population growth. Finally, every ecosystem has a carrying capacity, which is the maximum number of individuals that can be sustained in that environment, and once this capacity is reached, population growth will slow down or stop.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 

    What problems did the early cities experience? Check three.

    • A.

      Food

    • B.

      Waste

    • C.

      Poverty

    • D.

      Disease

    Correct Answer(s)
    B. Waste
    C. Poverty
    D. Disease
    Explanation
    Early cities experienced problems with waste, poverty, and disease. Waste management was a challenge as cities grew, leading to unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards. Poverty was also prevalent, as urbanization often resulted in a concentration of wealth and resources in the hands of a few, leaving many residents living in poverty. Additionally, the close proximity of people in cities facilitated the spread of diseases, as sanitation practices were inadequate and diseases could easily spread through crowded and unsanitary living conditions.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    Check three thing that might change a population size.

    • A.

      Disease

    • B.

      Resources

    • C.

      Coastal proximity

    • D.

      Social and cultural factors

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Disease
    B. Resources
    D. Social and cultural factors
    Explanation
    The population size of a species can be influenced by various factors. Disease outbreaks can significantly impact population size as it can lead to high mortality rates. Availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter also plays a crucial role in determining population size, as limited resources can result in competition and population decline. Social and cultural factors, such as migration patterns, reproductive behavior, and human activities, can also affect population size by altering habitat suitability and causing changes in birth and death rates. Therefore, disease, resources, and social and cultural factors are all potential factors that can change a population size.

    Rate this question:

  • 36. 

    What two things will exerbate competition for limited resources?

    • A.

      Natural disasters and political conflicts

    • B.

      Political conflicts and climate change

    • C.

      Plate tectonics and solar warmth

    • D.

      Climate change and educational opportunities

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural disasters and political conflicts
    Explanation
    Natural disasters and political conflicts can both exacerbate competition for limited resources. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, or droughts can destroy crops, infrastructure, and homes, leading to scarcity of resources like food, water, and shelter. Political conflicts, such as wars or disputes over territory, can disrupt supply chains, cause displacement of populations, and divert resources towards military efforts, further intensifying competition for limited resources. Both natural disasters and political conflicts create unstable and uncertain environments, making it even more challenging to access and distribute resources fairly and efficiently.

    Rate this question:

  • 37. 

    Varieties of the same element with a different number of neutrons are called

    • A.

      Atoms

    • B.

      Molecules

    • C.

      Ions

    • D.

      Isotopes

    • E.

      Elements

    Correct Answer
    D. Isotopes
    Explanation
    Isotopes are varieties of the same element with a different number of neutrons. Neutrons are subatomic particles that have no charge, and they are found in the nucleus of an atom. The number of neutrons in an atom can vary, resulting in different isotopes of the same element. Isotopes have the same number of protons and electrons as the original element, but their atomic mass may differ due to the varying number of neutrons. Therefore, the correct answer is isotopes.

    Rate this question:

  • 38. 

    The outermost shell in an atom is called the

    • A.

      The outside shell

    • B.

      Valence shell

    • C.

      The K shell

    • D.

      The polymer shell

    • E.

      The organic shell

    Correct Answer
    B. Valence shell
    Explanation
    The outermost shell in an atom is called the valence shell. The valence shell is the highest energy level in an atom and contains the valence electrons, which are responsible for the atom's chemical properties and its ability to form bonds with other atoms. The valence shell determines the atom's reactivity and its tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.

    Rate this question:

  • 39. 

    Electrons involved in bonding between atoms are

    • A.

      Valence

    • B.

      Positively charged.

    • C.

      Inside the nucleus

    • D.

      Closest to the nucleus

    Correct Answer
    A. Valence
    Explanation
    Valence electrons are the electrons involved in the bonding between atoms. These electrons are located in the outermost energy level of an atom and are responsible for forming chemical bonds with other atoms. They determine the reactivity and chemical properties of an element. Therefore, the correct answer is "valence."

    Rate this question:

  • 40. 

    Al is the ______ _______ of Aluminum

    • A.

      Atomic Symbol

    • B.

      Atomic Mass

    • C.

      Atomic Element

    Correct Answer
    A. Atomic Symbol
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Atomic Symbol" because the question is asking for the term that describes the representation of Aluminum in the periodic table, which is its atomic symbol. The atomic symbol for Aluminum is "Al".

    Rate this question:

  • 41. 

    A pure substance.

    • A.

      Element

    • B.

      Mixture

    • C.

      Compound

    • D.

      Polymer

    Correct Answer
    A. Element
    Explanation
    An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. It consists of only one type of atom. Examples of elements include oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Jun 05, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 30, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Marshallje
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.