8th Grade Trivia Question and Answers
1.
What is the smallest country in the world by land area?
Answer:
Vatican City
Explanation:
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world by land area because it is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. With an area of only 0.49 square kilometers, it is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world. Despite its small size, Vatican City is home to significant religious and cultural sites, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
2.
Which famous scientist developed the theory of relativity?
Answer:
Albert Einstein
Explanation:
Albert Einstein is credited with developing the theory of relativity, which revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. His groundbreaking work led to new insights into the nature of the universe and laid the foundation for modern physics. Einstein's theory of relativity has had a profound impact on various scientific disciplines and continues to be a cornerstone of theoretical physics today.
3.
What is the chemical symbol for gold?
Answer:
Au
Explanation:
Gold is represented by the chemical symbol Au, which comes from the Latin word "aurum". The symbol Au is derived from the first two letters of the word aurum. This symbol has been used for gold since ancient times and is internationally recognized in the periodic table of elements.
4.
What is the name of the longest river in the world?
Answer:
The Nile River
Explanation:
The Nile River is considered the longest river in the world based on its length of approximately 6,650 kilometers (4,130 miles). It flows through multiple countries in Africa, including Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia, making it a significant source of water and life for the region. Its historical and cultural importance further solidify its status as the longest river in the world.
5.
Who wrote the famous play "Romeo and Juliet"?
Answer:
William Shakespeare
Explanation:
William Shakespeare is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the author of the famous play "Romeo and Juliet." This tragic love story has become one of Shakespeare's most well-known works and has been performed and adapted countless times since it was first written in the late 16th century. Shakespeare's unique writing style, complex characters, and timeless themes have solidified his reputation as one of the greatest playwrights in history.
6.
What type of animal is a platypus?
Answer:
A mammal
Explanation:
The platypus is classified as a mammal due to its possession of mammary glands that produce milk to feed its young, as well as its ability to regulate its body temperature internally. Despite laying eggs, the platypus still exhibits many characteristics typical of mammals, such as having hair and a four-chambered heart.
7.
What is the capital of Australia?
Answer:
Canberra
Explanation:
Canberra is the capital of Australia. It was chosen as the capital in 1908 due to its location between the two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, in order to settle the rivalry between the two. Canberra was purpose-built to be the seat of government and is home to many important government buildings and institutions, including Parliament House.
8.
What is the name of the largest ocean on Earth?
Answer:
The Pacific Ocean
Explanation:
The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth, covering approximately 63 million square miles and comprising more than half of the Earth's water surface. It is known for its vast size and depth, containing numerous islands, marine life, and diverse ecosystems. Its name, derived from the Latin word "pacificus" meaning peaceful, reflects its calm and tranquil appearance in comparison to the turbulent waters of other oceans.
9.
What is the name of the highest mountain in the world?
Answer:
Mount Everest
Explanation:
Mount Everest is the correct answer for the highest mountain in the world because it has the highest elevation above sea level, standing at 29,032 feet (8,848 meters). Located in the Himalayas on the border between Nepal and China, Mount Everest is renowned for its challenging and dangerous climbing conditions, attracting adventurers and mountaineers from around the globe.
10.
What is the chemical formula for water?
Answer:
H2O
Explanation:
Water is composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom, which is represented by the chemical formula H2O. This formula indicates the ratio of hydrogen atoms to oxygen atoms in a water molecule, with two hydrogen atoms for every one oxygen atom.
11.
In what year did World War II begin?
Answer:
1939
Explanation:
World War II began in 1939 when Germany invaded Poland, leading to the outbreak of the global conflict. This marked the start of a devastating period in history that lasted until 1945, involving numerous countries and resulting in millions of casualties.
12.
What is the name of the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean?
Answer:
Amelia Earhart
Explanation:
Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. She was a pioneering aviator who set many records and achieved numerous milestones in aviation history. Her courage and determination made her a symbol of women's empowerment and a trailblazer in the field of aviation.
13.
What is the name of the largest desert in the world?
Answer:
The Antarctic Polar Desert
Explanation:
The Antarctic Polar Desert is considered the largest desert in the world because it meets the criteria of being a desert - receiving very little precipitation. Despite being covered in ice, the Antarctic Polar Desert receives less than 200 mm of precipitation per year, making it a desert by definition. Its vast size and extreme cold temperatures contribute to its classification as the largest desert on Earth.
14.
What is the name of the largest planet in our solar system?
Answer:
Jupiter
Explanation:
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system due to its massive size and gravitational pull. It has a diameter of about 86,881 miles, which is more than 11 times the diameter of Earth. Jupiter's size allows it to have a strong gravitational force that affects the orbits of other planets and objects in the solar system. Additionally, Jupiter is primarily made up of gas, mainly hydrogen and helium, which contributes to its large size compared to the other planets.
15.
What is the name of the famous scientist who developed a theory of evolution?
Answer:
Charles Darwin
Explanation:
Charles Darwin is the correct answer because he is widely known for developing the theory of evolution through natural selection. His groundbreaking work, "On the Origin of Species," published in 1859, revolutionized the field of biology and our understanding of how species evolve over time. Darwin's theory proposed that all species of life have descended over time from common ancestors, and that the process of natural selection is the driving force behind the diversity of life on Earth.
16.
What is the name of the country with the largest population in the world?
Answer:
China
Explanation:
China has the largest population in the world, with over 1.4 billion people. This is due to its vast land area and long history of civilization, as well as its rapid economic development and urbanization in recent decades. China's population size has significant implications for global demographics, economy, and politics.
17.
What is the name of the famous American author who wrote "The Great Gatsby"?
Answer:
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Explanation:
F. Scott Fitzgerald is the correct answer because he is the renowned American author who wrote the classic novel "The Great Gatsby." Fitzgerald is known for his vivid portrayal of the Jazz Age in America and his exploration of themes such as wealth, love, and the American Dream in his writing.
18.
What is the name of the country where the ancient city of Rome is located?
Answer:
Italy
Explanation:
Rome is a city located in Italy, which is known for its rich history and ancient ruins. Italy is home to many famous landmarks and historical sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. The country has a deep cultural heritage and played a significant role in shaping Western civilization.
19.
What is the name of the first person to walk on the moon?
Answer:
Neil Armstrong
Explanation:
Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. His famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," have become iconic in the history of space exploration. Armstrong's achievement marked a significant milestone in human history and solidified his place as a legendary figure in the field of space exploration.
20.
What is the name of the famous artist who painted the Mona Lisa?
Answer:
Leonardo da Vinci
Explanation:
Leonardo da Vinci is the correct answer because he was the renowned Italian artist who painted the Mona Lisa, one of the most famous and iconic paintings in the world. Leonardo da Vinci was a talented painter, sculptor, architect, and inventor during the Renaissance period, and his masterpiece, the Mona Lisa, is known for its enigmatic smile and exquisite detail.
21.
What is the name of the building that houses the United States Congress?
Answer:
The Capitol Building
Explanation:
The United States Congress is housed in the Capitol Building, located in Washington D.C. This iconic building serves as the meeting place for the Senate and the House of Representatives, where important legislative decisions are made. The Capitol Building is a symbol of democracy and the seat of the United States government.
22.
What is the currency used in Japan?
Answer:
The Japanese yen
Explanation:
The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen, which has been the official currency of Japan since 1871. The yen is symbolized by the symbol ¥ and is widely used in Japan for all financial transactions. The yen is subdivided into 100 sen or 1000 rin, although these smaller denominations are no longer used in practice. The yen is one of the most traded currencies in the foreign exchange market, and it plays a crucial role in the global economy.
23.
What is the name of the famous composer who wrote the "Moonlight Sonata"?
Answer:
Ludwig van Beethoven
Explanation:
Ludwig van Beethoven is the famous composer who wrote the "Moonlight Sonata." This renowned piece is one of his most popular and beloved compositions, showcasing his talent and skill as a composer. Beethoven's ability to evoke emotion and create beautiful melodies is evident in this timeless work.
24.
What is the name of the longest bone in the human body?
Answer:
The femur
Explanation:
The femur is the longest bone in the human body, extending from the hip to the knee. It is a strong and weight-bearing bone that plays a crucial role in supporting the body's structure and facilitating movement. Its length and shape contribute to its function in providing stability and mobility to the lower body.
25.
What is the name of the famous scientist who developed the theory of gravity?
Answer:
Isaac Newton
Explanation:
Isaac Newton is the famous scientist who developed the theory of gravity. He is known for his work in physics and mathematics, particularly his laws of motion and universal gravitation. Newton's groundbreaking discoveries revolutionized our understanding of the natural world and laid the foundation for modern physics.
26.
What is the capital of Canada?
Answer:
Ottawa
Explanation:
Ottawa is the capital of Canada. It is located in the province of Ontario and is known for being the political center of the country, where the Parliament Hill is located. Ottawa was chosen as the capital of Canada in 1857 due to its central location between Toronto and Montreal, as well as its distance from the US border for security reasons.
27.
What is the name of the famous scientist who discovered penicillin?
Answer:
Alexander Fleming
Explanation:
Alexander Fleming is the famous scientist who discovered penicillin. He made this groundbreaking discovery in 1928 when he noticed that a mold called Penicillium notatum was able to kill bacteria. This discovery revolutionized medicine and has since saved countless lives by introducing the world to the first antibiotic.
28.
What is the name of the famous historical document written by Thomas Jefferson?
Answer:
The Declaration of Independence
Explanation:
Thomas Jefferson is known for writing the Declaration of Independence, a famous historical document that declared the thirteen American colonies as independent states from the British Empire in 1776. This document outlined the principles of liberty, equality, and self-governance that have since become foundational to American democracy.
29.
What is the chemical symbol for iron?
Answer:
Fe
Explanation:
Iron is represented by the chemical symbol Fe. This symbol comes from the Latin word for iron, "ferrum." The symbol Fe is used to easily identify and represent iron in chemical formulas and equations.
30.
What is the name of the largest freshwater lake in the world?
Answer:
Lake Superior
Explanation:
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. It is located in North America, shared by the United States and Canada. Its size and depth make it the largest by volume as well, holding approximately 10% of the world's surface freshwater. Its vast size and importance in terms of ecology and transportation contribute to its status as the largest freshwater lake in the world.
31.
What is the name of the famous scientist who developed the periodic table?
Answer:
Dmitri Mendeleev
Explanation:
Dmitri Mendeleev is credited with developing the periodic table by arranging elements based on their atomic mass and properties, leading to the creation of the modern periodic table. Mendeleev's work laid the foundation for our current understanding of the organization of elements and their relationships to one another, making him a significant figure in the field of chemistry.
32.
What is the name of the famous American author who wrote "To Kill a Mockingbird"?
Answer:
Harper Lee
Explanation:
Harper Lee is the correct answer because she is the author of the famous American novel "To Kill a Mockingbird". The book, published in 1960, is considered a classic of modern American literature and has won numerous awards for its powerful portrayal of racial injustice in the American South. Harper Lee's work continues to be widely studied and celebrated for its themes of morality, compassion, and social inequality.
33.
What is the name of the famous Egyptian pharaoh who built the Great Pyramid of Giza?
Answer:
Khufu
Explanation:
Khufu is the correct answer because he was the pharaoh who ruled during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom and commissioned the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Khufu's reign is known for the massive building projects he undertook, including the Great Pyramid, which is believed to have been built as a tomb for the pharaoh. His name has become synonymous with the Great Pyramid due to his association with its construction.
34.
What is the name of the famous American inventor who developed the light bulb?
Answer:
Thomas Edison
Explanation:
Thomas Edison is widely credited with inventing the light bulb, as he successfully developed a practical and commercially viable incandescent light bulb in 1879. Edison's invention revolutionized the way people lived and worked by providing a reliable and safe source of artificial light. His contributions to the field of electricity and lighting technology have had a lasting impact on society and continue to be celebrated to this day.
35.
What is the name of the country where the Taj Mahal is located?
Answer:
India
Explanation:
The Taj Mahal is located in India, specifically in the city of Agra. This iconic white marble mausoleum was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. India is known for its rich history, culture, and architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, making it a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world.
36.
What is the name of the famous scientist who developed the theory of plate tectonics?
Answer:
Alfred Wegener
Explanation:
Alfred Wegener is the correct answer because he was the scientist who proposed the theory of continental drift in the early 20th century, which later evolved into the theory of plate tectonics. Wegener's work laid the foundation for our understanding of how the Earth's continents move and interact with each other over time.
37.
What is the name of the famous American civil rights leader who led the Montgomery Bus Boycott?
Answer:
Martin Luther King Jr.
Explanation:
Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent American civil rights leader who played a key role in organizing the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. His leadership and advocacy for nonviolent protest methods were instrumental in the success of the boycott, which ultimately led to the desegregation of the city's public transportation system. King's dedication to the civil rights movement made him a highly respected figure in American history.
38.
What is the name of the famous musician who wrote the song "Imagine"?
Answer:
John Lennon
Explanation:
John Lennon is the correct answer because he was a famous musician who wrote the iconic song "Imagine". As a member of The Beatles and as a solo artist, Lennon was known for his songwriting abilities and his influence on music and culture. "Imagine" is one of his most well-known and beloved songs, promoting peace and unity through its lyrics and message.
39.
What is the name of the country where the Great Barrier Reef is located?
Answer:
Australia
Explanation:
The Great Barrier Reef is located in Australia because the country has the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the northeast coast of the state of Queensland. Australia is renowned for its diverse marine life and vibrant coral formations, making it a popular destination for tourists and researchers alike.
40.
What is the name of the famous American author who wrote "The Catcher in the Rye"?
Answer:
J.D. Salinger
Explanation:
J.D. Salinger is the famous American author who wrote "The Catcher in the Rye." He is well-known for his iconic novel that explores themes of teenage angst, alienation, and the search for identity. Salinger's writing style and unique characters have made him a significant figure in American literature.
41.
What is the name of the famous artist who painted "The Starry Night"?
Answer:
Vincent van Gogh
Explanation:
Vincent van Gogh is the famous artist who painted "The Starry Night." He is known for his unique style and use of bold colors and expressive brushstrokes. "The Starry Night" is one of his most iconic works, featuring swirling clouds and a bright crescent moon in a night sky. Van Gogh's emotional and tumultuous life is often reflected in his paintings, making him one of the most well-known and influential artists in history.
42.
What is the name of the famous scientist who discovered the structure of DNA?
Answer:
James Watson and Francis Crick
Explanation:
James Watson and Francis Crick are credited with discovering the structure of DNA. In 1953, they proposed the double helix model of DNA, which revolutionized the field of genetics and molecular biology. Their groundbreaking work laid the foundation for our understanding of how genetic information is stored and transmitted in living organisms.
43.
What is the name of the famous American author who wrote "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn"?
Answer:
Mark Twain
Explanation:
Mark Twain is the pen name of Samuel Clemens, a renowned American author known for his classic novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". Twain's work is celebrated for its humor, social commentary, and vivid storytelling, making him a significant figure in American literature.
44.
What is the name of the famous American president who issued the Emancipation Proclamation?
Answer:
Abraham Lincoln
Explanation:
Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation during the American Civil War in 1863, declaring that all enslaved individuals in Confederate territory were to be set free. This historic document played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery in the United States and is often seen as one of Lincoln's most significant achievements as president.
45.
What is the name of the famous American author who wrote "The Scarlet Letter"?
Answer:
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Explanation:
Nathaniel Hawthorne is the famous American author who wrote "The Scarlet Letter." He is known for his exploration of themes such as sin, guilt, and redemption in his works, making "The Scarlet Letter" a classic in American literature. Hawthorne's writing style and vivid portrayal of characters have cemented his place as one of the most influential authors in American literary history.
46.
What is the name of the famous scientist who developed the theory of special relativity?
Answer:
Albert Einstein
Explanation:
Albert Einstein is the famous scientist who developed the theory of special relativity. His groundbreaking work revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity, leading to significant advancements in physics and shaping the way we perceive the universe. Einstein's theory of special relativity laid the foundation for modern physics and continues to be a fundamental concept in the field.
47.
What is the name of the famous American composer who wrote "West Side Story"?
Answer:
Leonard Bernstein
Explanation:
Leonard Bernstein is the famous American composer known for writing "West Side Story." He was a prolific composer and conductor, known for his innovative approach to music and his ability to blend different genres and styles. Bernstein's work on "West Side Story" is considered one of his most iconic and enduring contributions to the world of music and musical theater.
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