1.
Musician "Weird Al" Yankovic received a university degree in which discipline?
Correct Answer
A. Architecture
Explanation
"Weird Al" Yankovic received a university degree in Architecture. This means that he studied and completed a program in the field of architecture, which involves the design, planning, and construction of buildings and structures. It is interesting to note that despite his success as a musician, he also has a background in a completely different discipline.
2.
In 2000, Pope John Paul II was named an honorary member of which organization?
Correct Answer
D. Harlem Globetrotters
Explanation
In 2000, Pope John Paul II was named an honorary member of the Harlem Globetrotters. This unexpected and unique honor was bestowed upon him as a recognition of his efforts in promoting peace and unity throughout the world. The Harlem Globetrotters, known for their basketball skills and entertainment, saw the Pope as a symbol of these values and welcomed him into their organization. This gesture highlights the Pope's global influence and the impact he had beyond religious circles.
3.
How many times does the average person blink in one year?
Correct Answer
A. 10,000,000
Explanation
The average person blinks approximately 15-20 times per minute, which adds up to about 1,200 times per hour. Assuming an average of 16 blinks per minute, the total number of blinks in a day would be 1,200 x 16 = 19,200. In a year, there are approximately 365 days, so the total number of blinks in a year would be 19,200 x 365 = 7,008,000. Therefore, the closest option to this number is 10,000,000.
4.
How many dimples are on a regulation golf ball?
Correct Answer
A. 336
Explanation
A regulation golf ball typically has 336 dimples. Dimples on a golf ball help to reduce drag and increase lift, allowing the ball to travel farther and more accurately through the air. The number of dimples on a golf ball can vary slightly, but 336 is the most common number found on regulation balls.
5.
What name is given to the small pieces of plastic at the ends of shoelaces?
Correct Answer
B. Aglets
Explanation
Aglets are the small pieces of plastic or metal at the ends of shoelaces. They serve the purpose of preventing the lace from fraying and making it easier to thread through the eyelets of shoes. Aglets have been used for centuries and are still commonly found on shoelaces today. The other options given, Picts, Seals, and Kips, are unrelated terms and do not refer to the small pieces of plastic at the ends of shoelaces.
6.
How many different ways can one make a change for a dollar?
Correct Answer
A. 293
7.
What names is given to the sports teams of Whittier College?
Correct Answer
A. Poets
Explanation
The sports teams of Whittier College are known as the Poets.
8.
How many people are on the board of governors that oversees the US Postal Service?
Correct Answer
D. 11
Explanation
There are 11 people on the board of governors that oversee the US Postal Service.
9.
What is the largest dwarf planet?
Correct Answer
C. Eris
Explanation
Eris is the largest dwarf planet in our solar system. It was discovered in 2005 and is slightly larger than Pluto. Eris is located in the Kuiper Belt, a region beyond Neptune that is home to many icy objects. Its discovery actually led to the reclassification of Pluto as a dwarf planet. Eris has a highly eccentric orbit and is known for its extremely low temperatures.
10.
Which of the following countries was not represented at the 1992 Olympics by the "Unified Team"?
Correct Answer
B. Azerbaijan
Explanation
Azerbaijan was not represented at the 1992 Olympics by the "Unified Team".
11.
Thomas Leach led Major League Baseball in home runs in 1902 with what total?
Correct Answer
A. 6
Explanation
Thomas Leach led Major League Baseball in home runs in 1902 with a total of 6.
12.
Who became the first Poet Laureate of the United States in 1986?
Correct Answer
C. Robert Penn Warren
Explanation
Robert Penn Warren became the first Poet Laureate of the United States in 1986. He was chosen for this prestigious position due to his exceptional contributions to American literature and poetry. Warren was a highly acclaimed poet, novelist, and literary critic, known for his works such as "All the King's Men" and "Promises: Poems 1954-1956". His profound understanding of American history and culture, combined with his mastery of language and poetic expression, made him a fitting choice for the role of Poet Laureate.
13.
What is Donald Duck's middle name?
Correct Answer
B. Fauntleroy
Explanation
Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy. This is a well-known fact among fans of the Disney character. Fauntleroy is a common middle name that has been used in various works of fiction, and it adds a touch of humor and uniqueness to Donald Duck's character.
14.
Which of Hercules' 12 Labors involved cleaning a stable?
Correct Answer
A. 5th
Explanation
The 5th of Hercules' 12 Labors involved cleaning a stable. In this labor, Hercules was tasked with cleaning the Augean stables, which were filled with an immense amount of manure that had accumulated over many years. Hercules accomplished this by diverting two rivers to flow through the stables, effectively cleaning them in a single day. This labor showcased Hercules' strength and cleverness in finding a solution to a seemingly impossible task.
15.
What was the first silent film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture?
Correct Answer
D. Wings
Explanation
"Wings" was the first silent film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Released in 1927, it is a war film directed by William A. Wellman. The film showcases the story of two World War I fighter pilot friends who fall in love with the same woman. "Wings" won the award at the 1st Academy Awards in 1929, recognizing its outstanding achievements in filmmaking, including its impressive aerial sequences and innovative use of camera techniques.