Space Exploration Unit Practice Test
Goes over topics such as: Influential Thinkers and their theories (ie. Copernicus) Geocentric and Heliocentric Models Solstices & Equinox Telescopes Measuring distance in space Azimuth & Altitude Space Events Triangulation and Parallax Meteors/Meteroids, Meteroites Planets and their Characteristics Stars Space Technology (ie. Solar Sails, Ion Drives, Radio waves) Rockets
- 1.
When a star is "red shifted", it means the star is___________.
- A.
Shifting away from the Earth
- B.
Shifting towards the Earth
- C.
Shifting right of the Earth
- D.
Shifting left of the Earth
Correct Answer
A. Shifting away from the EarthExplanation
When a star is "red shifted", it means that the wavelengths of light emitted by the star are being stretched, causing them to shift towards the red end of the spectrum. This phenomenon occurs when an object is moving away from the observer, in this case, the Earth. Therefore, the correct answer is that the star is shifting away from the Earth.Rate this question:
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- 2.
When a star is "blue shifted", it means the star is__________.
- A.
Shifting towards Earth
- B.
Shifting away from the Earth
- C.
Shifting left of the Earth
- D.
Shifting right of the Earth
Correct Answer
A. Shifting towards EarthExplanation
When a star is "blue shifted", it means that the wavelengths of light emitted by the star are compressed, causing them to appear shifted towards the shorter wavelength end of the spectrum, which is the blue end. This phenomenon occurs when the star is moving towards the observer, in this case, the Earth. Therefore, the correct answer is "shifting towards Earth".Rate this question:
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- 3.
Longer wave lengths mean ____________.
- A.
Lower frequency
- B.
Higher frequency
- C.
Lower shifts
- D.
Higher shifts
Correct Answer
A. Lower frequencyExplanation
Longer wavelengths refer to a greater distance between consecutive wave peaks. In the context of waves, frequency is the number of complete wave cycles that occur in a given time period. Therefore, longer wavelengths indicate a lower frequency, as there are fewer complete wave cycles occurring within a specific time frame.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Shorter wave lengths mean __________.
- A.
Higher frequency
- B.
Lower frequency
- C.
Lower shifts
- D.
Higher shifts
Correct Answer
A. Higher frequencyExplanation
Shorter wavelengths mean higher frequency. This is because frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional to each other. As the wavelength of a wave decreases, the number of complete cycles passing through a point in a given time period increases, resulting in a higher frequency. Therefore, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher frequency waves.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of these laws of physics is correct for rocketry?
- A.
For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction
- B.
The velocity of a body remains constant unless the body is acted upon by an external force
- C.
Change in position of a light-emitting object due to the constancy of the speed of light and the motion of the observer relative to the emitter
- D.
Gravity pulls objects down which is equal to the distance it was launched
Correct Answer
A. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reactionExplanation
The correct answer is "for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." This principle, known as Newton's third law of motion, states that when an object exerts a force on another object, the second object exerts a force of equal magnitude but in the opposite direction on the first object. In the context of rocketry, this law explains how rockets are propelled forward. The exhaust gases expelled by the rocket create an action force pushing backward, and as a result, the rocket experiences an equal and opposite reaction force pushing it forward.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Select the different types of fuel that could be used to propell a rocket. (hint: there are 3)
- A.
Liquid oxygen
- B.
Gasoline
- C.
Liquid hydrogen
- D.
Xenon
- E.
Oxygen
- F.
Oil
Correct Answer(s)
A. Liquid oxygen
B. Gasoline
C. Liquid hydrogenExplanation
The correct answer is liquid oxygen, gasoline, and liquid hydrogen. These three fuels are commonly used to propel rockets. Liquid oxygen is often used as an oxidizer in rocket engines, while gasoline and liquid hydrogen serve as the fuel. Xenon and oxygen can also be used as propellants in certain types of rockets, but they are not as commonly used as the other three options. Oil, on the other hand, is not typically used as a fuel for rockets.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How do ion drives work?
- A.
The sun's energy
- B.
Metal causes Hydrogen to become ions
- C.
Metal causes Helium to become ions
- D.
Plasma
Correct Answer
B. Metal causes Hydrogen to become ionsExplanation
Ion drives work by using a metal to cause hydrogen to become ions. This process involves stripping hydrogen atoms of their electrons, resulting in positively charged hydrogen ions. These ions are then accelerated and expelled at high speeds, creating thrust. The metal acts as a catalyst for this ionization process, facilitating the conversion of hydrogen into ions. This method of propulsion is efficient and can provide continuous thrust over long periods of time, making it suitable for deep space missions.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How does a solar sail move?
- A.
Using sun's energy
- B.
Using dark matter
- C.
Using wind in space
- D.
The sun's dark spots
Correct Answer
A. Using sun's energyExplanation
A solar sail moves by utilizing the energy from the sun. The sail is made of a thin, reflective material that captures the photons from sunlight and transfers their momentum to the sail, creating a force known as radiation pressure. As the photons bounce off the sail, they push against it, propelling the sail forward. This method allows the solar sail to travel through space without the need for traditional propulsion systems such as fuel or engines.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of these facts apply to the Sputnik 1 satellite?
- A.
First official satellite
- B.
Launched by NASA
- C.
Traveled to Neptune
- D.
Was unsuccessful after launch
Correct Answer
A. First official satelliteExplanation
The Sputnik 1 satellite was the first official satellite ever launched. It was not launched by NASA, but by the Soviet Union. It did not travel to Neptune, as its mission was to orbit the Earth. It was actually successful after launch, as it successfully transmitted signals back to Earth for several weeks.Rate this question:
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- 10.
If you were to enter a black hole, there would be a white hole on the other side. Why is it impossible to get out of the white hole after entering?
- A.
Einstein Rosen Bridge
- B.
Time travel
- C.
Hole will close off
- D.
White holes don't exist
Correct Answer
A. Einstein Rosen BridgeExplanation
The correct answer is "Einstein Rosen Bridge". An Einstein Rosen Bridge, also known as a wormhole, is a hypothetical connection between two different points in spacetime. It is suggested that if one were to enter a black hole, they would exit through a white hole on the other side via an Einstein Rosen Bridge. However, it is impossible to get out of the white hole after entering because the white hole is theorized to be a one-way path, allowing only for entry and not exit. Therefore, once inside the white hole, there would be no way to escape or return back through the Einstein Rosen Bridge.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Where was the first rocket made?
- A.
China
- B.
Russia
- C.
Canada
- D.
USA
Correct Answer
A. ChinaExplanation
The first rocket was made in China.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following space agencies was the first to successfully land a rover on Mars?
- A.
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- B.
ESA (European Space Agency)
- C.
CNSA (China National Space Administration)
- D.
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
Correct Answer
A. NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)Explanation
NASA achieved the first successful Mars rover landing with the Sojourner rover in 1997 as part of the Pathfinder mission. This pioneering achievement marked a significant advancement in Martian exploration, paving the way for subsequent rover missions by NASA and other space agencies to further investigate the Red Planet.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Who was the first person to step on the moon?
- A.
Neil Armstrong
- B.
Johannes Kepler
- C.
Buzz Aldrin
- D.
Buzz Light year
Correct Answer
A. Neil ArmstrongExplanation
Neil Armstrong was the first person to step on the moon. He made history on July 20, 1969, as part of the Apollo 11 mission. Armstrong's famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," marked a significant milestone in human exploration of space. His achievement solidified his place in history as the first person to set foot on the lunar surface.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What year did Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, land?
Correct Answer
1969Explanation
Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, landed in 1969.Rate this question:
- 15.
Why would it be unreasonable to expect Saturn-like rings around any of the inner planets?
- A.
Not enough gravity
- B.
No moons
- C.
Not enough dust
- D.
Because they have moons
Correct Answer
A. Not enough gravityExplanation
It would be unreasonable to expect Saturn-like rings around any of the inner planets because they do not have enough gravity. Saturn's rings are formed by the gravitational pull of its moons, which keeps the particles in orbit around the planet. The inner planets, such as Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars, do not have enough gravity to hold onto a ring system like Saturn does. Therefore, the lack of sufficient gravity makes it unreasonable to expect such rings around the inner planets.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Although white dwarf stars are small in size, they are the most______.
- A.
Dense
- B.
Hottest
- C.
Coldest
- D.
Active
Correct Answer
A. DenseExplanation
White dwarf stars are the most dense because they are the remnants of massive stars that have exhausted their nuclear fuel and collapsed under their own gravity. As a result, their mass is packed into a small volume, making them incredibly dense. Despite their small size, white dwarf stars can contain a mass similar to that of our Sun, resulting in a high density.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The Hertzsprung Russell diagram places stars on a diagram according to its colour to determine it's temperature. If a star is purple, green or blue, then the star is most likely ________ and ________.
- A.
Hotter and brighter
- B.
Hotter and darker
- C.
Colder and brighter
- D.
Colder and darker
Correct Answer
A. Hotter and brighterExplanation
The Hertzsprung Russell diagram is a graphical representation of stars based on their color and temperature. In this diagram, stars that are purple, green, or blue are categorized as hotter stars. Hotter stars tend to emit more energy and appear brighter compared to cooler stars. Therefore, the correct answer is that if a star is purple, green, or blue, it is most likely hotter and brighter.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The Hertzsprung Russell diagram places stars on a diagram according to its colour to determine it's temperature. If a star is red, orange or yellow, then the star is most likely _______ and _______.
- A.
Colder and darker
- B.
Colder and brighter
- C.
Hotter and brighter
- D.
Hotter and darker
Correct Answer
A. Colder and darkerExplanation
The Hertzsprung Russell diagram is a plot that classifies stars based on their color and temperature. In this diagram, stars that are red, orange, or yellow are typically cooler than stars of other colors. Cooler stars emit less energy and appear darker compared to hotter stars. Therefore, if a star is red, orange, or yellow, it is most likely colder and darker.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A star is at the red giant phase, it then turns into a white dwarf because the _______ _______ stops.
- A.
Fusion reaction
- B.
Super nova
- C.
Kinetic energy
- D.
Center light
Correct Answer
A. Fusion reactionExplanation
A star is at the red giant phase, it then turns into a white dwarf because the fusion reaction stops. During the red giant phase, a star fuses hydrogen into helium in its core. However, as the star exhausts its hydrogen fuel, the fusion reaction slows down and eventually stops. This causes the star to collapse under its own gravity, becoming a white dwarf.Rate this question:
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- 20.
How is the solar system formed?
- A.
Cloud of gas and dust swirls to form sun, then remaining creates planets
- B.
Several stars are combined to create the sun, which then pulls gas and dust to form planets
- C.
Meteoroids and other space waste accumulate to create a solar system
- D.
Sun was created with many stars, planets were giant pieces of rock from the asteroid belt
Correct Answer
A. Cloud of gas and dust swirls to form sun, then remaining creates planetsExplanation
The correct answer explains that the solar system is formed when a cloud of gas and dust starts swirling, eventually forming the sun at its center. The remaining gas and dust then come together to create the planets. This process is known as the nebular hypothesis and is widely accepted by scientists as the most plausible explanation for the formation of the solar system.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A planet is a celestial body that moves in a circular orbit around a star (the Sun).
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is incorrect because a planet is a celestial body that orbits around a star, but it does not necessarily have to move in a circular orbit. Planets can have elliptical or even highly eccentric orbits around their respective stars. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of these characteristics describe the planet Mercury?
- A.
Hydrogen and Helium atmosphere
- B.
No atmosphere
- C.
Scorched
- D.
Has rings
- E.
Carbon Dioxide atmosphere
- F.
Supports life
Correct Answer(s)
A. Hydrogen and Helium atmosphere
B. No atmosphere
C. ScorchedExplanation
Mercury is described as having a hydrogen and helium atmosphere, which means that these gases are present around the planet. However, it is also described as having no atmosphere, which contradicts the previous statement. Additionally, Mercury is known to be scorched, indicating that it experiences extremely high temperatures. Therefore, the correct answer is hydrogen and helium atmosphere, no atmosphere, and scorched.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of these characteristics describe the planet Venus?
- A.
Hydrogen and Helium atmosphere
- B.
Hottest planet
- C.
Large highland terrain
- D.
Has rings
- E.
Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen atmosphere
- F.
Supports life
Correct Answer(s)
B. Hottest planet
C. Large highland terrain
E. Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen atmosphereExplanation
Venus is known as the hottest planet in our solar system due to its thick atmosphere that traps heat. It also has large highland terrain, which consists of mountains and plateaus. The planet's atmosphere is mainly composed of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, making it inhospitable for supporting life.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Who proposed the Geocentric model?
Correct Answer(s)
AristotleExplanation
Aristotle proposed the Geocentric model. The Geocentric model is a theory that suggests that the Earth is at the center of the universe and all other celestial bodies revolve around it. This theory was widely accepted for centuries and was a dominant belief in the field of astronomy until the heliocentric model was proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century. Aristotle's Geocentric model had a significant influence on the understanding of the universe during his time and shaped the study of astronomy for many years.Rate this question:
- 25.
Who proposed the Heliocentric model?
Correct Answer(s)
Copernicus
Nicholas CopernicusExplanation
Copernicus, also known as Nicholas Copernicus, proposed the Heliocentric model. This model suggests that the Sun is at the center of the solar system, with the planets, including Earth, orbiting around it. Copernicus's theory challenged the prevailing belief in the geocentric model, which placed Earth at the center of the universe. His proposal revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos and laid the foundation for modern astronomy.Rate this question:
- 26.
In the Geocentric model, it was proposed that the _________ was the center of the universe.
Correct Answer(s)
EarthExplanation
In the Geocentric model, it was proposed that the Earth was the center of the universe. This model was widely accepted for centuries, with the belief that all celestial bodies including the Sun, Moon, and planets revolved around the Earth. This view was supported by observations that appeared to show the Sun and other celestial objects moving across the sky relative to the Earth. It wasn't until the heliocentric model was proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century that the Earth's position as the center of the universe was challenged.Rate this question:
- 27.
In the Heliocentric model, it was proposed that the ________ was the center of the universe.
Correct Answer(s)
Sun
sunExplanation
The correct answer is "Sun" or "sun." In the Heliocentric model, it was proposed that the Sun is the center of the universe. This model, developed by Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century, challenged the prevailing belief that the Earth was the center of the universe. According to the Heliocentric model, the planets, including Earth, revolve around the Sun in elliptical orbits. This theory revolutionized our understanding of the solar system and laid the foundation for modern astronomy.Rate this question:
- 28.
Light years is used to measure the distance light travels in __ year.
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
100
- D.
9.5
Correct Answer
A. 1Explanation
Light years is a unit of measurement used to calculate the distance that light travels in one year. It is commonly used in astronomy to express vast distances between celestial objects. Since light travels at a constant speed, the distance it covers in one year can be used as a reference point to measure astronomical distances. Therefore, the correct answer is 1.Rate this question:
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- 29.
To locate the position of an object in space you must know the ______ and the ______.
- A.
Azimuth and altitude
- B.
Azimuth and height
- C.
Location and height
- D.
Triangulation and parallax
Correct Answer
A. Azimuth and altitudeExplanation
To locate the position of an object in space, you must know its azimuth and altitude. Azimuth refers to the horizontal angle measured clockwise from a reference direction, usually north. Altitude, on the other hand, refers to the vertical angle measured from the horizon. By knowing both the azimuth and altitude of an object, you can determine its precise position in space.Rate this question:
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- 30.
An altitude of 90 degrees, is also known as your ______.
Correct Answer
zenith
ZenithExplanation
An altitude of 90 degrees refers to the position directly overhead, which is known as the zenith. It is the highest point in the sky that can be observed from a specific location. The term "zenith" is derived from the Arabic word "samt al-ra's," meaning "path above the head." It is used to describe the point in the celestial sphere that is vertically above an observer. The zenith is an important concept in astronomy and navigation, as it helps determine the position of celestial objects and is used as a reference point for measuring angles.Rate this question:
- 31.
Rockets must have a travel at a speed of ________km/h to escape the Earth's atmosphere (escape velocity).
- A.
2800 km/h
- B.
9,300 km/h
- C.
100 km/h
- D.
300,000 km/h
Correct Answer
A. 2800 km/hExplanation
The correct answer is 2800 km/h. Rockets must reach this speed, known as the escape velocity, in order to overcome the Earth's gravitational pull and escape its atmosphere. At this speed, the rocket has enough kinetic energy to counteract the gravitational force and continue its journey into space.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Ion drive's have an engine thar use _______ instead of chemical fuel.
- A.
Xenon gas
- B.
Hydrogen gas
- C.
Liquid oxygen
- D.
Liquid hydrogen
Correct Answer
A. Xenon gasExplanation
Ion drives use xenon gas instead of chemical fuel. This is because xenon gas can be ionized easily and accelerated by an electric field to produce thrust. The ions are expelled at high speeds, creating a reaction force that propels the spacecraft forward. Xenon gas is preferred over other options like hydrogen or oxygen because it has a higher atomic mass, allowing for greater efficiency in terms of thrust generation. Additionally, xenon gas is inert and non-reactive, making it safer and more stable to use in the ion drive system.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following factors primarily determines the orbit of a satellite around Earth?
- A.
The mass of the satellite
- B.
The altitude at which the satellite is placed
- C.
The type of fuel used by the satellite
- D.
The design and shape of the satellite
Correct Answer
B. The altitude at which the satellite is placedExplanation
The orbit of a satellite around Earth is primarily determined by its altitude. The altitude dictates whether the satellite will be in a low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), or geostationary orbit (GEO), each of which serves different purposes and has different characteristics, such as orbital period and speed. The mass of the satellite and the type of fuel are important for launching and maintaining the orbit but do not primarily determine the orbit itself.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Refracting telescopes uses _______.
- A.
2 lens
- B.
Mirrors
- C.
Glass
- D.
Metal
Correct Answer
A. 2 lensExplanation
Refracting telescopes use two lenses to gather and focus light. The first lens, called the objective lens, collects the incoming light and forms an image. The second lens, called the eyepiece lens, magnifies the image and allows the viewer to see it. The use of two lenses in a refracting telescope helps to minimize aberrations and improve the quality of the image.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Reflecting telescopes use _______.
- A.
Mirrors
- B.
2 lens
- C.
Metal
- D.
Glass
Correct Answer
A. MirrorsExplanation
Reflecting telescopes use mirrors instead of lenses to gather and focus light. Mirrors are used to reflect and redirect the incoming light to create an image. This is in contrast to refracting telescopes, which use lenses to bend and focus light. Mirrors in reflecting telescopes can be curved to correct for aberrations and improve image quality. Additionally, mirrors are often made of materials that can reflect a wide range of wavelengths, allowing for observations across different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.Rate this question:
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Dec 02, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Mar 18, 2012Quiz Created by
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