A team of surveyors takes measurements of ground altitude at horizontal intervals of 1 meter over a 400 square meter area. These measurements can best be used to produce which representation of the area? [SEP] A. a topographical map [SEP] B. a map of wind currents [SEP] C. a plate tectonic diagram [SEP] D. a chart of sedimentary layers

Answer: A


Some schools have programs to recycle paper products such as student papers, newspapers, and cardboard boxes. Which of these statements describes a positive effect of recycling paper products? [SEP] A. Schools need to buy less paper. [SEP] B. Fewer trees need to be cut. [SEP] C. Landfills have less room for other trash. [SEP] D. Recycling consumes more energy than making new paper.

Answer: B


Light sometimes behaves as waves and other times as particles. Which property of light is equally explainable by treating light as either particles or waves? [SEP] A. interference of light [SEP] B. reflection of light [SEP] C. diffraction of light [SEP] D. polarization of light

Answer: B


The topography of Nevada is dominated by basins and mountain ranges associated with which geological phenomena? [SEP] A. faults [SEP] B. trenches [SEP] C. hot spots [SEP] D. hydrothermal vents

Answer: A


Which biological activity occurs in a repeated rhythm? [SEP] A. sneezing [SEP] B. coughing [SEP] C. breathing [SEP] D. blinking

Answer: C


Which model best illustrates the wave property that enables scientists to explore Earth's interior using seismic waves? [SEP] A. shining a light on rock in a bowl [SEP] B. shining a light through a prism [SEP] C. shining a light through a periscope [SEP] D. shining a light on a sundial

Answer: B


In 1933, a hurricane came ashore at Ocean City, Maryland. A hurricane negatively affects a coastline by [SEP] A. causing erosion [SEP] B. causing earthquakes [SEP] C. increasing food production [SEP] D. increasing the growth of grasses

Answer: A


Which statement describes the location of our Sun in the universe? [SEP] A. Our Sun orbits Earth in the Andromeda galaxy. [SEP] B. Our Sun orbits Earth in the Milky Way galaxy. [SEP] C. Our Sun is the center of a solar system in the Milky Way galaxy. [SEP] D. Our Sun is the center of a solar system in the Andromeda galaxy.

Answer: C


Scientists claim that the area around the Grand Canyon was once covered by an ocean. What evidence would support their claim? [SEP] A. Dinosaur footprints were found near the Grand Canyon. [SEP] B. Fish were found living in the rivers of the Grand Canyon. [SEP] C. Fossils of ocean animals were found at the Grand Canyon. [SEP] D. Bones from desert animals were found at the Grand Canyon.

Answer: C


Which is true of scientific discoveries? [SEP] A. All scientific discoveries are based solely on observation and never experimentation. [SEP] B. Sometimes scientific discoveries are made by accident, like the discovery of penicillin. [SEP] C. If a scientist cannot provide the exact time and place his or her discovery was made, it is dismissed. [SEP] D. All scientific discoveries are regulated by government agencies, like the Food and Drug Administration.

Answer: B


Which is a process that most likely formed the Appalachian Mountains found in the eastern part of North America? [SEP] A. earthquake [SEP] B. folded rock [SEP] C. plate tectonics [SEP] D. volcanic activity

Answer: C


Which technology used to generate electrical power involves a trade-off between economical electricity and long-term waste disposal problems? [SEP] A. fossil fuel [SEP] B. nuclear reactor [SEP] C. solar collector [SEP] D. wind turbine

Answer: B


All the ponds in an area dried up during a drought. The population of which of the following animals that live in the area is most affected by the drought? [SEP] A. deer [SEP] B. frog [SEP] C. hawk [SEP] D. squirrel

Answer: B


Which substance is usually found in nature as a liquid, solid, and gas? [SEP] A. water [SEP] B. rock [SEP] C. metal [SEP] D. glass

Answer: A


The scientific name for a giraffe is Giraffa camelopardalis. What two levels of classification does this name represent? [SEP] A. family and order [SEP] B. kingdom and genus [SEP] C. phylum and domain [SEP] D. genus and species

Answer: D


The Moon has the greatest effect on Earth's [SEP] 1. year [SEP] 2. seasons [SEP] 3. ocean tides [SEP] 4. daylight hours

Answer: 3


Granite is classified as a rock because it [SEP] A. is made of minerals. [SEP] B. is hard and rounded. [SEP] C. has crystals. [SEP] D. has mass.

Answer: A


The measure of the amount of light received on Earth from a star is known as [SEP] A. parallax. [SEP] B. redshift. [SEP] C. absolute magnitude. [SEP] D. apparent magnitude.

Answer: D


Heat from deep in Earth's interior is transferred to its crust by which of the following? [SEP] A. conduction in the ocean [SEP] B. convection in the mantle [SEP] C. radiation from the solid core [SEP] D. evaporation at mid-ocean ridges

Answer: B


The growth of which of the following usually occurs first in primary succession on a bare rock? [SEP] A. Lichens [SEP] B. Grasses [SEP] C. Trees [SEP] D. Shrubs

Answer: A


The process by which water vapor in the atmosphere cools and becomes a liquid is called [SEP] A. evaporation. [SEP] B. perspiration. [SEP] C. condensation. [SEP] D. transportation.

Answer: C


A student is dropping objects of various sizes and shapes and recording the time it takes for each object to hit the ground. Which question is the student most likely trying to answer? [SEP] A. What force slows some objects down? [SEP] B. What force pulls objects to the ground? [SEP] C. Do some objects fall more quickly than others? [SEP] D. Do objects break or bounce when hitting the ground?

Answer: C


Which two processes in the water cycle are primarily responsible for the creation of a lake? [SEP] A. evaporation and runoff [SEP] B. evaporation and condensation [SEP] C. precipitation and runoff [SEP] D. precipitation and condensation

Answer: C


The correct procedure after completing a laboratory experiment is to [SEP] A. put all non-reusable glass in the trash. [SEP] B. pour all used chemicals down the sink. [SEP] C. collect and store recyclable material. [SEP] D. return used samples to natural settings.

Answer: C


Which is an example of primary ecological succession? [SEP] A. plants and animals invading an abandoned crop field [SEP] B. mangroves stabilizing the soils on tropical coasts [SEP] C. minerals spurring rapid plant growth [SEP] D. lichen growth on rocks

Answer: D


What is true of mutualistic relationships among organisms? [SEP] A. The organisms ignore each other. [SEP] B. The organisms cooperate with each other. [SEP] C. The organisms prey on each other. [SEP] D. The organisms compete with each other.

Answer: B


Carolina uses a microscope to view a soil sample taken from her backyard. Which part of the soil would she ONLY be able to see with a microscope? [SEP] A. bacteria [SEP] B. grass [SEP] C. rainwater [SEP] D. rocks

Answer: A


The part of the rock cycle that transforms compressed rock formed from sea organism shells into a harder, denser rock is [SEP] A. igneous rock becoming sedimentary rock. [SEP] B. igneous rock becoming metamorphic rock. [SEP] C. metamorphic rock becoming igneous rock. [SEP] D. sedimentary rock becoming metamorphic rock.

Answer: D


A group of scientists predicts that Earth's oceans will be able to take up more carbon dioxide as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase and the atmosphere warms. Which of these statements about the solubility of gases in ocean water would lead you to question this prediction? [SEP] A. Solubility decreases with an increase in salinity. [SEP] B. Solubility decreases with an increase in temperature. [SEP] C. Solubility increases with an increase in pressure. [SEP] D. Solubility increases with an increase in pH.

Answer: B


Which of the following elements is best able to combine with itself and hydrogen [H] to form large molecules? [SEP] A. sodium [Na] [SEP] B. lithium [Li] [SEP] C. sulfur [S] [SEP] D. carbon [C]

Answer: D


Growing thicker fur in the winter helps some animals to [SEP] A. hide from danger [SEP] B. attract a mate [SEP] C. find food [SEP] D. keep warm

Answer: D


Several types of mechanisms in the body regulate the rate of chemical reactions in the digestive system. Among the most important are feedback systems, which control the release rate of [SEP] A. lipids. [SEP] B. enzymes. [SEP] C. nucleic acids. [SEP] D. carbohydrates.

Answer: B


The water in a pond gets colder one night. Which tool is best to observe its temperature change? [SEP] A. balance [SEP] B. magnifying glass [SEP] C. ruler [SEP] D. thermometer

Answer: D


During subduction, one tectonic plate is forced below another. The subducting plate is forced into the [SEP] A. asthenosphere. [SEP] B. lithosphere. [SEP] C. outer core. [SEP] D. inner core.

Answer: A


What two gases make up most of the Earth's atmosphere? [SEP] A. Hydrogen and oxygen [SEP] B. Hydrogen and nitrogen [SEP] C. Oxygen and carbon dioxide [SEP] D. Oxygen and nitrogen

Answer: D


A light-year is a measure of [SEP] A. time. [SEP] B. energy. [SEP] C. distance. [SEP] D. direction.

Answer: C


Some birds live in a forest. If many of the trees in the forest are cut down, the shelter for the birds will [SEP] A. decrease [SEP] B. increase [SEP] C. remain the same

Answer: A


In the human body, cellular respiration breaks down sugar molecules after they enter the cell. What results from this process? [SEP] A. growth of bacteria [SEP] B. release of energy [SEP] C. activity of enzymes [SEP] D. production of oxygen

Answer: B


What causes a person to have blue eyes? [SEP] A. eating foods high in protein at a young age [SEP] B. having a brother or sister with blue eyes [SEP] C. being overexposed to the Sun at a young age [SEP] D. receiving a gene for blue eyes from each parent

Answer: D


When an atom loses or gains an electron, it changes [SEP] A. atomic mass. [SEP] B. atomic number. [SEP] C. charge. [SEP] D. element.

Answer: C


In which pair of elements are both metalloids? [SEP] A. Sn and Sb [SEP] B. Sb and Te [SEP] C. Te and I [SEP] D. I and Xe

Answer: B


Florida has a large supply of phosphate that ancient seas deposited millions of years ago. The phosphate contains the remains of animals that were deposited in layers on the sea floor. Which type of rock did the phosphate become? [SEP] A. intrusive igneous [SEP] B. extrusive igneous [SEP] C. clastic sedimentary [SEP] D. organic sedimentary

Answer: D


After months of studying and obtaining data on the behavior of birds, biologists from around the world will look at the data and [SEP] A. come up with several possible interpretations. [SEP] B. reject it and do their own investigations. [SEP] C. change the data to fit their expectations. [SEP] D. publish their own interpretations in a science journal.

Answer: A


Which mixture can be easily separated by adding water and pouring it through a coffee filter? [SEP] A. sugar and salt [SEP] B. salt and sand [SEP] C. sugar and baking soda [SEP] D. iron filings and sand

Answer: B


Living things depend on energy from [SEP] A. the Sun [SEP] B. the Moon [SEP] C. soil [SEP] D. water

Answer: A


Research into the total amount of oil available for use around the world can affect what kind of human choice? [SEP] A. where to retire [SEP] B. how to travel to work [SEP] C. what kind of coffee to drink [SEP] D. whether to recycle glass and aluminum

Answer: B


Hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to produce a saltwater solution. What are the products of this chemical reaction? [SEP] A. NaCl and H_{2}O [SEP] B. NaOH and HCl [SEP] C. HCl and NaCl [SEP] D. NaOH and H_{2}O

Answer: A


Which human activity most often has a harmful effect on the environment? [SEP] A. breathing [SEP] B. growing [SEP] C. planting [SEP] D. polluting

Answer: D


Young frogs do not resemble adult frogs. Which term is given to this pattern of development in frogs? [SEP] 1. asexual reproduction [SEP] 2. cloning [SEP] 3. metamorphosis [SEP] 4. biological adaptation

Answer: 3


Bones support the body. What pulls and pushes on bones to move them? [SEP] A. blood [SEP] B. nerves [SEP] C. muscles [SEP] D. skin

Answer: C


Which statement best describes why a calcium-fortified juice would advertise that it is good for growing children? [SEP] A. Calcium helps the growth of bones. [SEP] B. Calcium provides energy for growth. [SEP] C. Children need to drink a lot of fluids. [SEP] D. Children need calcium to prevent allergies.

Answer: A


Which of these tectonic plate boundaries is most likely to form a volcano? [SEP] A. a continental plate colliding with a continental plate [SEP] B. an oceanic plate sliding past a continental plate [SEP] C. a continental plate sliding past a continental plate [SEP] D. an oceanic plate colliding into a continental plate

Answer: D


Which of the following is an example of heat transfer by conduction? [SEP] A. a whole metal spoon getting hot when one end is in hot soup [SEP] B. the inside of a car in the sun getting very hot [SEP] C. a tar road getting hotter in the sun than a concrete sidewalk [SEP] D. a fireplace fire heating a room on a cold day

Answer: A


Alicia gives her brother a push while he is seated on a swing. She finds that after a few seconds, she needs to push again to keep him going. The reason her brother slows down is because the mechanical energy is converted into [SEP] A. potential energy that heats the air. [SEP] B. chemical energy that moves the swing. [SEP] C. kinetic energy which makes the swing slow down. [SEP] D. thermal energy that is released into the atmosphere.

Answer: D


An example of a learned behavior is a [SEP] A. spider building a web. [SEP] B. dog laying down on command. [SEP] C. beaver building a dam in a creek. [SEP] D. kangaroo jumping away from a predator.

Answer: B


An atom consists of a nucleus surrounded by [SEP] A. ions. [SEP] B. protons. [SEP] C. neutrons. [SEP] D. electrons.

Answer: D


Which of these causes the atmosphere to change? [SEP] A. increased inorganic matter in soil [SEP] B. increased use of fertilizers on crops [SEP] C. increased buildup of greenhouse gases [SEP] D. increased rainfall rates near power plants

Answer: C


Which element is most likely to form an ion with a negative 2 charge? [SEP] A. oxygen [SEP] B. nitrogen [SEP] C. beryllium [SEP] D. magnesium

Answer: A


Mount St. Helens was a cone-shaped mountain that formed when molten material reached the surface of Earth and formed layers. Cone-shaped mountains form as a result of which one of these events? [SEP] A. hurricanes [SEP] B. earthquakes [SEP] C. volcanic eruptions [SEP] D. sediment depositions

Answer: C


Which process in the water cycle would be accelerated by an increase in temperature? [SEP] A. runoff [SEP] B. evaporation [SEP] C. precipitation [SEP] D. condensation

Answer: B


Which of the following foods is highest in polysaccharides? [SEP] A. broccoli [SEP] B. potatoes [SEP] C. cheese [SEP] D. fish

Answer: B


Colored alcohol is used in some glass thermometers. When placed in air of different temperatures, the column of alcohol rises or falls in the glass thermometer. Which of the following best explains why the height of the alcohol column changes? [SEP] A. The glass contracts when heated. [SEP] B. The alcohol contracts when heated. [SEP] C. The glass expands more than the alcohol when heated. [SEP] D. The alcohol expands more than the glass when heated.

Answer: D


An organism, such as a nematode worm, may have only 1000 cells. It should be classified as being [SEP] A. a virus. [SEP] B. a bacteria. [SEP] C. unicellular. [SEP] D. multicellular.

Answer: D


The Heliocentric Theory, as supported by Copernicus, revolutionized scientific theories regarding [SEP] A. the life cycle. [SEP] B. the water cycle. [SEP] C. the solar system. [SEP] D. the immune system.

Answer: C


Which process causes the leaves of a plant to become larger? [SEP] A. repair [SEP] B. growth [SEP] C. decomposition [SEP] D. germination

Answer: B


Wind changes the surface of Earth. Which of these land formations is a result of transportation and deposition by wind? [SEP] A. a delta [SEP] B. a glacier [SEP] C. a sand dune [SEP] D. a mountain peak

Answer: C


Water moves by capillary action through soil from moist areas to dry areas. Which property of water is most responsible for this capillary action? [SEP] A. Water is a polar molecule. [SEP] B. Water contains an oxygen atom. [SEP] C. Water has a high surface tension. [SEP] D. Water has a high specific heat.

Answer: C


Which action is the best method to separate a mixture of salt and water? [SEP] A. using a magnet to extract the salt [SEP] B. adding a colored dye to the mixture [SEP] C. pouring the mixture through a filter [SEP] D. boiling the mixture until the water evaporates

Answer: D


In humans, a trait can be determined by one pair or many pairs of [SEP] 1. genes [SEP] 2. microbes [SEP] 3. cells [SEP] 4. organs

Answer: 1


Which animal develops inside its mother before it is born alive? [SEP] A. Butterfly [SEP] B. Cat [SEP] C. Duck [SEP] D. Frog

Answer: B


Which sequence correctly shows the levels of organization for structure and function in a human? [SEP] 1. cell -> tissue -> organ -> organ system [SEP] 2. organ system -> cell -> tissue -> organ [SEP] 3. tissue -> organ -> organ system -> cell [SEP] 4. cell -> organ -> tissue -> organ system

Answer: 1


Which adaptation allows a fish to get oxygen underwater? [SEP] A. fins [SEP] B. lungs [SEP] C. gills [SEP] D. heart

Answer: C


The number of daylight hours in New York State changes with the [SEP] A. season of the year [SEP] B. Moon's changing appearance [SEP] C. direction of the wind [SEP] D. arrival of a severe storm

Answer: A


Which instrument would be used when studying a unit on amphibian anatomy? [SEP] A. a beaker [SEP] B. a telescope [SEP] C. a dissecting kit [SEP] D. a graduated cylinder

Answer: C


Which is a reason for Arkansas having multiple seasons? [SEP] A. the tilt of Earth's axis [SEP] B. the speed of Earth's orbit [SEP] C. Earth's distance from the Sun [SEP] D. Earth gravitational pull toward the Moon

Answer: A


Jessica watches the Sun set in the evening sky. What causes the setting of the Sun? [SEP] A. The distance between Earth and the Sun is increasing. [SEP] B. The tilt of Earth on its axis is constantly changing. [SEP] C. Earth is revolving around the Sun. [SEP] D. Earth is rotating on its axis.

Answer: D


To which planet do National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) scientists hope to send humans next? [SEP] A. Mars [SEP] B. Venus [SEP] C. Jupiter [SEP] D. Mercury

Answer: A


Which force keeps the planets in their orbits around the Sun? [SEP] 1. gravity [SEP] 2. magnetism [SEP] 3. electricity [SEP] 4. friction

Answer: 1


The endangered Florida manatee is a large, aquatic mammal that feeds on sea grasses in brackish water. Due to where they like to feed, manatees are vulnerable to injuries from boat propellers. If speed zones requiring boats to maintain a low speed are placed in areas where manatees are known to congregate, which will most likely occur? [SEP] A. less water pollution in manatee habitats will occur [SEP] B. manatees will seek alternate food sources [SEP] C. new manatee predators will surface [SEP] D. manatee populations will increase

Answer: D


Which is an example of a different substance being formed? [SEP] A. glass breaking [SEP] B. metal melting [SEP] C. water freezing [SEP] D. wood burning

Answer: D


A mixture of powdered iron and sulfur is heated. What will be formed? [SEP] A. a single element [SEP] B. two other elements [SEP] C. a solution [SEP] D. an alloy [SEP] E. a compound

Answer: E


Scientists can identify an element by looking at the structure of a single [SEP] A. atom. [SEP] B. neutron. [SEP] C. molecule. [SEP] D. electron.

Answer: A


Newly made proteins are modified in which organelle? [SEP] A. ribosome [SEP] B. endoplasmic reticulum [SEP] C. mitochondrion [SEP] D. nuclear envelop

Answer: B


Which of the following is the primary advantage of sexual reproduction when compared to asexual reproduction? [SEP] A. There is a greater number of offspring. [SEP] B. There is more food available to offspring. [SEP] C. There is greater genetic variety in offspring. [SEP] D. There is a longer development time for offspring.

Answer: C


By attaching to sharks, remora fish eat the scraps of food left behind when the sharks feed. If remoras were not able to attach to sharks, they would most likely [SEP] A. attach to boats. [SEP] B. not be able to survive. [SEP] C. find another source of food. [SEP] D. not need to eat anymore.

Answer: B


Plants need a source of energy in order to perform photosynthesis. From which source do plants receive the energy needed to perform photosynthesis? [SEP] A. oxygen [SEP] B. sugar [SEP] C. sunlight [SEP] D. water

Answer: C


What form of energy is stored in a battery? [SEP] A. chemical [SEP] B. sound [SEP] C. light [SEP] D. heat

Answer: A


When a light bulb is turned on, energy changes from one form to another. Which of the following best describes this change? [SEP] A. sound energy to light energy [SEP] B. nuclear energy to light energy [SEP] C. electrical energy to light energy [SEP] D. magnetic energy to light energy

Answer: C


Which stimulus causes a porcupine to extend its quills? [SEP] A. lunar effect on Earth [SEP] B. seasonal temperature changes [SEP] C. threatening behavior by predators [SEP] D. environmental encroachment by humans

Answer: C


When a balloon is filled with air and suddenly released, it will fly around the room as the air escapes. If compared to space transportation, the escaping air is most similar to what subsystem of a spacecraft? [SEP] A. guidance [SEP] B. propulsion [SEP] C. support [SEP] D. suspension

Answer: B


The Sun appears larger than other stars because of its [SEP] 1. yellow color [SEP] 2. high temperature [SEP] 3. distance from Earth [SEP] 4. chemical composition

Answer: 3


How hot is it on the surface of the Sun? [SEP] A. Not quite as hot as boiling water [SEP] B. About as hot as fire [SEP] C. About 100°F [SEP] D. Much hotter than almost anything on Earth

Answer: D


Which two observations are both used to describe weather? [SEP] A. precipitation and runoff [SEP] B. temperature and sky conditions [SEP] C. wind speed and erosion [SEP] D. types of clouds and deposition

Answer: B


A scientist combines oxygen and hydrogen to form water. This combination illustrates that water is [SEP] A. an atom. [SEP] B. an element. [SEP] C. a mixture. [SEP] D. a compound.

Answer: D


In a large forest with many animals, there are only a small number of bears. Which of these most likely limits the population of bears in the forest? [SEP] A. supply of food [SEP] B. type of tree [SEP] C. predation by carnivores [SEP] D. amount of suitable shelter

Answer: A


There is a thunderstorm close to your house. The windows rattle at the same time that you hear the thunder. What causes the windows to rattle? [SEP] A. Sound waves from the thunder [SEP] B. Light from the lightning [SEP] C. Rain from the clouds [SEP] D. The high humidity during the storm

Answer: A


Rocks in warm and humid environments can be weathered faster than rocks in other environments. Which is most likely the next step in the rock cycle for weathered rocks? [SEP] A. They are cemented. [SEP] B. They are compacted. [SEP] C. They become eroded. [SEP] D. They become molted.

Answer: C


If the solar system were used as a model of an atom, what would the Sun most likely represent? [SEP] A. an ion [SEP] B. a nucleus [SEP] C. a neutron [SEP] D. an electron

Answer: B


A student provides the following directions for brushing teeth: • Turn on the water. • Fill the glass with water and leave the water running. • Put toothpaste on the toothbrush. • Brush for two minutes. • Rinse mouth with the water from the glass. • Rinse the toothbrush with the running water. • Turn off the water. Which change in these directions would conserve the most water? [SEP] A. Brush for three minutes. [SEP] B. Turn the water off before brushing. [SEP] C. Rinse mouth with the running water. [SEP] D. Use less toothpaste on the toothbrush.

Answer: B


Which of these shows the correct order for the central dogma of molecular biology? [SEP] A. DNA to protein to RNA [SEP] B. RNA to DNA to protein [SEP] C. protein to DNA to RNA [SEP] D. DNA to RNA to protein

Answer: D


Meiosis contributes to the process of reproduction by producing what type of cell? [SEP] A. aneuploid [SEP] B. diploid [SEP] C. haploid [SEP] D. polyploid

Answer: C


The abundance of a mineral at the surface of Earth most likely depends upon the [SEP] A. climate of a particular region. [SEP] B. types of elements available in the crust. [SEP] C. thicknesses of nearby rock layers. [SEP] D. exposure of the elements to the environment.

Answer: B


Which has the greatest effect on aiding the movement of blood through the human body? [SEP] A. tension [SEP] B. friction [SEP] C. density [SEP] D. gravity

Answer: D


Why should scientists wear goggles during experiments? [SEP] A. to block out bright sunlight [SEP] B. to magnify small objects [SEP] C. to protect their eyes [SEP] D. to see in the dark

Answer: C


Which of the following organisms produces energy from sunlight? [SEP] A. worm [SEP] B. rabbit [SEP] C. hawk [SEP] D. grass

Answer: D


Which statement is true for all objects? [SEP] A. All objects are shiny. [SEP] B. All objects are hard. [SEP] C. All objects are rough. [SEP] D. All objects have mass.

Answer: D


Elements in the same column of the Periodic Table of the Elements all [SEP] A. have the same number of protons. [SEP] B. share the same atomic structure. [SEP] C. have similar physical characteristics. [SEP] D. share the same number of neutrons.

Answer: C


What is the main function of scales on a fish? [SEP] A. to protect the fish [SEP] B. to attract predators [SEP] C. to help the fish find food [SEP] D. to help the fish breathe

Answer: A


Which invention made mass production possible? [SEP] A. the assembly line [SEP] B. the airplane [SEP] C. the personal computer [SEP] D. the telephone

Answer: A


What causes a meteoroid to glow as it falls through the atmosphere of Earth? [SEP] A. wind [SEP] B. gravity [SEP] C. friction [SEP] D. sunlight

Answer: C


The cheetah population around the world has decreased because of poaching and loss of habitat. The surviving population is found to have similar alleles. Which factor is endangering the species' survival the most? [SEP] A. harmful genetic mutations [SEP] B. shrinking of the gene pool [SEP] C. decrease in competition [SEP] D. increase in adaptations

Answer: B


What is generated when the students count and record the number of organisms in the pond water? [SEP] A. data [SEP] B. variables [SEP] C. a hypothesis [SEP] D. a conclusion

Answer: A


The Mariana Trench is the deepest ocean trench on Earth. This trench occurs at a plate boundary where [SEP] A. one plate is sliding past another. [SEP] B. one plate is being forced beneath another. [SEP] C. two plates are colliding into each other. [SEP] D. two plates are pulling apart from each other.

Answer: B


Students want to find out at which temperature bean plants grow tallest. Which science process skill would be used to find this temperature? [SEP] A. inferring [SEP] B. predicting [SEP] C. measuring [SEP] D. classifying

Answer: C


When would the highest tides occur along the Texas coast? [SEP] A. at sunrise [SEP] B. at sunset [SEP] C. during a full moon [SEP] D. during a half moon

Answer: C


Sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) combine to form sodium chloride (NaCl), which is commonly known as [SEP] A. soap. [SEP] B. vinegar. [SEP] C. table salt. [SEP] D. baking soda.

Answer: C


It rained on a hot summer afternoon and a puddle formed. After several hours, the puddle was gone. Which two processes made the puddle form and then disappear? [SEP] A. precipitation followed by evaporation [SEP] B. deposition followed by evaporation [SEP] C. precipitation followed by runoff [SEP] D. deposition followed by runoff

Answer: A


Which environmental problem was directly caused by the invention of the automobile? [SEP] A. storage of nuclear waste [SEP] B. increase in air pollution [SEP] C. increased use of pesticides [SEP] D. flooding in the Midwest

Answer: B


At some places in Florida, sand on the beaches is being reduced. New sand is brought from other areas and spread on the beaches. What process causes this reduction to the beach sand? [SEP] A. earthquakes [SEP] B. erosion [SEP] C. landslides [SEP] D. weathering

Answer: B


Which characteristic of a volvox colony makes it more like a multicellular organism than a simple cluster of unicellular organisms? [SEP] A. The cells in the colony respond to stimuli separately. [SEP] B. The cells in the colony are arranged in a specific shape. [SEP] C. Some cells in the colony are specialized for reproduction. [SEP] D. Cells in the colony are connected by strands of cytoplasm.

Answer: C


Students are investigating which type of fruit attracts the most fruit flies. Equally sized pieces of ripe apple, peach, and banana are placed in separate containers. The containers allow fruit flies to enter, but the fruit flies are unable to escape. The containers are placed outside on a picnic table for two days. The most reliable method for collecting data is to count the number of fruit flies [SEP] A. on all three types of fruit every two hours [SEP] B. on all three types of fruit after each fruit spoils [SEP] C. on the banana on Day 1, the apple on Day 2, and the peach on Day 3 [SEP] D. on the banana after Hour 1, the apple after Hour 2, and the peach after Hour 3

Answer: A


Malaria is a common disease in many countries. What is the cause of this disease? [SEP] A. a virus [SEP] B. a bacterium [SEP] C. a fungus [SEP] D. a parasite

Answer: D


Mold is often found growing on old bread. In a food chain, mold is a ___. [SEP] A. decomposer [SEP] B. producer [SEP] C. consumer [SEP] D. scavenger

Answer: A


Which form of energy are x rays and ultraviolet light? [SEP] 1. nuclear [SEP] 2. heat [SEP] 3. electromagnetic [SEP] 4. chemical

Answer: 3


Which of these geographic features most directly influences the climate of Nevada by limiting the amount of water vapor that can reach the state and fall as rain? [SEP] A. Pacific Ocean [SEP] B. Colorado River [SEP] C. Sierra Nevada Mountains [SEP] D. Columbia River Basin

Answer: C


Cells come in two basic types, prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Which cell structure is found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells? [SEP] A. vacuole [SEP] B. nucleoid [SEP] C. mitochondrion [SEP] D. cytoplasm

Answer: D


From which part of the plant does a bee get food? [SEP] A. flower [SEP] B. seed [SEP] C. stem [SEP] D. root

Answer: A


As Earth revolves around the Sun, the number of daylight hours varies from place to place. In which location would the number of daylight hours remain constant? [SEP] A. North Pole [SEP] B. Prime Meridian [SEP] C. Equator [SEP] D. Antarctica

Answer: C


Why does tapping a fork against a water glass produce a sound? [SEP] A. The air expands. [SEP] B. The fork releases electrons. [SEP] C. The particles in the objects vibrate. [SEP] D. The water in the glass forms ripples.

Answer: C


A student places a sheet of black construction paper on her desk. What happens to most of the light that strikes the black construction paper? [SEP] A. The light is bent by the paper. [SEP] B. The light reflects off the paper. [SEP] C. The light is absorbed by the paper. [SEP] D. The light passes through the paper.

Answer: C


Which of these groups animals are ALL mammals? [SEP] A. duck, eagle, parrot [SEP] B. mouse, monkey, bat [SEP] C. butterfly, ant, mosquito [SEP] D. crocodile, snake, turtle

Answer: B


Which part of a plant cell is responsible for controlling the activities of the other parts of the cell? [SEP] A. Vacuole [SEP] B. Nucleus [SEP] C. Cell wall [SEP] D. Chloroplast

Answer: B


All metabolic functions fall into one of two categories: a breaking down process (catabolic) or a building up process (anabolic). Which is an example of an anabolic process? [SEP] A. respiration [SEP] B. protein synthesis [SEP] C. oxygen transport [SEP] D. carbohydrate digestion

Answer: B


Clearing forests of trees and vegetation for human development can have major impacts on the ecosystem. Which would most likely occur after a forested area is cleared? [SEP] A. an increase in habitat for wildlife [SEP] B. a decrease in food competition [SEP] C. an increase in soil erosion [SEP] D. a decrease in water runoff

Answer: C


Which of these is the most responsible for the changes of the seasons on Earth? [SEP] A. Position of the Moon [SEP] B. Tilt of Earth on its axis [SEP] C. Temperature of the Sun [SEP] D. Distance to Mars

Answer: B


Turning off the light when leaving a room is an example of [SEP] A. conserving energy. [SEP] B. wasting energy. [SEP] C. using potential energy. [SEP] D. using chemical energy.

Answer: A


Which list contains only things that are part of our solar system? [SEP] A. planets, moons, comets [SEP] B. galaxies, quasars, asteroids [SEP] C. black holes, novas, stars [SEP] D. clusters, asteroids, meteors

Answer: A


A family installs a new heating system in their home. Which is the most desirable result of the new heating system? [SEP] A. producing more noise pollution [SEP] B. decreasing the amount of energy used [SEP] C. increasing the use of natural resources [SEP] D. increasing the time it takes to heat the home

Answer: B


The Andes Mountains in South America formed when an oceanic plate shifted beneath a continental plate. Which other landforms are usually associated with this type of plate boundary? [SEP] A. barrier islands [SEP] B. ocean trenches [SEP] C. mid-ocean ridges [SEP] D. volcanic island arcs

Answer: B


Which of the following animals goes through metamorphosis? [SEP] A. alligator [SEP] B. frog [SEP] C. lizard [SEP] D. turtle

Answer: B


Which group of organisms can make food by a process called chemosynthesis? [SEP] A. scavengers [SEP] B. producers [SEP] C. consumers [SEP] D. decomposers

Answer: B


Which of these are broken down during chemical, but not physical, changes? [SEP] A. elements [SEP] B. mixtures [SEP] C. solutions [SEP] D. compounds

Answer: D


Fossils of clam shells were found in the Appalachian Mountains. Which of these statements best explains why the clam shells were found in the Appalachian Mountains? [SEP] A. The mountain range was once under water. [SEP] B. Birds flying overhead dropped the clam shells. [SEP] C. Animals released the clam shells in their waste. [SEP] D. The clams lived on land before moving to water.

Answer: A


When a formula unit of magnesium sulfide, MgS, is separated into magnesium and sulfur particles, the particles are called [SEP] A. molecules. [SEP] B. ions. [SEP] C. isotopes. [SEP] D. compounds.

Answer: B


Which action is an example of an exothermic process? [SEP] A. baking bread [SEP] B. cooking an egg [SEP] C. making ice cubes [SEP] D. evaporation of water

Answer: C


Which best explains why some reptiles and amphibians lay an abundance of eggs? [SEP] A. It increases the population. [SEP] B. The eggs provide food for predators. [SEP] C. These animals do not have to stay with their eggs. [SEP] D. It increases the chance of some eggs surviving to hatch.

Answer: D


Which is the best example of recycling? [SEP] A. using low energy appliances [SEP] B. washing and reusing plastic cups [SEP] C. using empty milk cartons as flower planters [SEP] D. using aluminum cans to make new products

Answer: D


When two objects are touching, heat is transferred from the warmer object to the cooler one by [SEP] A. radiation. [SEP] B. convection. [SEP] C. conduction. [SEP] D. insulation.

Answer: C


Genes code for specifically structured [SEP] A. acids. [SEP] B. lipids. [SEP] C. sugars. [SEP] D. proteins.

Answer: D


What is the repeating monomer of a DNA molecule? [SEP] A. triglyceride [SEP] B. dipeptide [SEP] C. nucleotide [SEP] D. phospholipid

Answer: C


The range of all forms of radiant energy is called the [SEP] A. video spectrum. [SEP] B. audio spectrum. [SEP] C. color spectrum. [SEP] D. electromagnetic spectrum.

Answer: D


Which of the following is one reason that quartz is classified as a mineral? [SEP] A. It can be manufactured. [SEP] B. It comes in different colors. [SEP] C. It has a specific crystal structure. [SEP] D. It can be melted at high temperatures.

Answer: C


Which of the following activities is the best example of instinctive behavior in an animal? [SEP] A. A dog sits when told to sit by its owner. [SEP] B. A bird avoids an insect that has a bad taste. [SEP] C. A newly hatched sea turtle walks toward the ocean. [SEP] D. A chimpanzee uses a stick to pull termites from a tree stump.

Answer: C


If wolves prey on deer for food, what will most likely happen to the deer population if wolves are removed from an area where deer live? [SEP] A. The population of deer will increase. [SEP] B. The population of deer will decrease. [SEP] C. The population of deer will remain the same. [SEP] D. The population of deer will become extinct.

Answer: A


Which is a feedback mechanism the human body uses to maintain homeostasis? [SEP] A. copying genetic material during cell division [SEP] B. rejecting a flu vaccine by the immune system [SEP] C. perspiring to lower the body temperature [SEP] D. learning a new behavior to survive in a new environment

Answer: C


Changes to Earth's surface can happen slowly or quickly. Which of these changes happens the most quickly? [SEP] A. a mountain eroding to a hill [SEP] B. a river making a delta [SEP] C. a glacier making a canyon [SEP] D. a storm moving a sandbar

Answer: D


What event happens in a daily cycle? [SEP] A. cliffs erode [SEP] B. rivers flood [SEP] C. volcanoes erupt [SEP] D. high and low tides

Answer: D


The burning of fossil fuels has added pollutants that contain sulfur atoms to the air. These pollutants have contributed to which of the following? [SEP] A. drought [SEP] B. acid rain [SEP] C. tornadoes [SEP] D. temperature inversions

Answer: B


A scientist was examining a large boulder that was covered with lichens (a combination of fungi and algae). He chipped a piece of the rock and placed it under a microscope. He observed that the surface of the rock was breaking down underneath the lichen. Which was the scientist most likely observing? [SEP] A. the interaction between abiotic factors [SEP] B. the effects of chemical weathering [SEP] C. the process of deposition [SEP] D. the effects of abrasion

Answer: B


Which organism belongs in the kingdom Protista? [SEP] A. sponge [SEP] B. liverwort [SEP] C. mushroom [SEP] D. paramecium

Answer: D


How is the structure of an atom best described? [SEP] A. a negative core surrounded by densely packed matter [SEP] B. a neutral core surrounded by mostly empty space [SEP] C. a positive core surrounded by mostly empty space [SEP] D. a positive core surrounded by densely packed matter

Answer: C


What do producers need to make food? [SEP] A. sunlight, oxygen, and carbon dioxide [SEP] B. sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide [SEP] C. water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide [SEP] D. water, oxygen, and sunlight

Answer: B


Fish can live in lakes that are frozen because liquid water remains below the ice at the surface. Which of these describes a property of water that allows some liquid water to remain in frozen lakes? [SEP] A. Water can dissolve many different substances. [SEP] B. Water is less dense as a solid than as a liquid. [SEP] C. Water has a Mohs hardness of about 2 when it is frozen. [SEP] D. Water holds less air at higher temperatures.

Answer: B


A certain disease of the spinal cord can be passed on from a dog to its offspring. This disease can result in the dog's muscles becoming weak, leading to paralysis. This is an example of [SEP] A. an infectious disease. [SEP] B. a respiratory disease. [SEP] C. an inherited disease. [SEP] D. an environmental disease.

Answer: C


Paula determines a property of a marble using a balance and a graduated cylinder. What property is Paula most likely determining by using both tools? [SEP] A. density [SEP] B. length [SEP] C. mass [SEP] D. volume

Answer: A


Why do satellites and spacecraft launched from Earth need to reach a specific speed to escape Earth's surface? [SEP] A. to overcome Earth's gravitational force [SEP] B. to protect equipment from radiation [SEP] C. to break through the sound barrier [SEP] D. to avoid Earth's magnetic field

Answer: A


Which of these is a nonliving part of a forest? [SEP] A. Tree [SEP] B. Soil [SEP] C. Worm [SEP] D. Mushroom

Answer: B


Which change increases the rate of a chemical reaction? [SEP] A. increasing the reaction temperature [SEP] B. using larger particles of solid reactants [SEP] C. reducing the concentration of the reactants [SEP] D. adding an inhibitor to the reaction mixture

Answer: A


Which characteristic is found ONLY in mammals? [SEP] A. eyes that detect color [SEP] B. glands that make milk [SEP] C. skin that absorbs oxygen [SEP] D. bodies that are protected by scales

Answer: B


The relationship between an owl and a mouse is a [SEP] A. parasite-host relationship. [SEP] B. symbiotic relationship. [SEP] C. mutualistic relationship. [SEP] D. predator-prey relationship.

Answer: D


The heart, veins, arteries, and capillaries make up which organ system? [SEP] A. reproductive [SEP] B. muscular [SEP] C. excretory [SEP] D. circulatory

Answer: D


Some kinds of fish live most of their lives in salt water but lay their eggs in freshwater. Their ability to survive in different environments is an example of [SEP] 1. adaptation [SEP] 2. developmental stages [SEP] 3. a habit [SEP] 4. selective breeding

Answer: 1


Which of the following statements applies to all states of matter? [SEP] A. Matter takes the shape of its container. [SEP] B. Matter is made up of particles that are stationary. [SEP] C. Matter consists of tightly packed particles. [SEP] D. Matter is made up of particles called atoms.

Answer: D


Which process in the water cycle returns water from the surface of Earth to the atmosphere? [SEP] A. condensation [SEP] B. evaporation [SEP] C. precipitation [SEP] D. runoff

Answer: B


Which of the following organisms have the greatest effect on an ecosystem because of the changes they make to their environment? [SEP] A. bees building a hive in a hollow tree [SEP] B. wasps building a nest in a leafy bush [SEP] C. beavers building a dam across a stream [SEP] D. fish digging a burrow on a river bottom

Answer: C


Which inventor had the greatest impact on the development of artificial light? [SEP] A. Charles Darwin [SEP] B. Albert Einstein [SEP] C. Thomas Edison [SEP] D. Benjamin Franklin

Answer: C


Mounds and ridges in the Snake Range area of Nevada are composed of boulders, sand, and gravel. These landforms were most likely formed by [SEP] A. earthquakes. [SEP] B. melting glaciers. [SEP] C. wind erosion. [SEP] D. hurricanes.

Answer: B


Noah studied different systems in the human body. Which best describes a function of veins in the circulatory system? [SEP] A. carrying blood from the body to the heart [SEP] B. supplying nutrients from the intestines to the body [SEP] C. carrying carbon dioxide from the body to the lungs [SEP] D. passing waste materials from the blood to outside the body

Answer: A


A genetic mutation has caused the fur color of field mice to contrast with their environment. This type of mutation will most likely [SEP] A. benefit the mice. [SEP] B. harm the mice. [SEP] C. increase reproductive rates. [SEP] D. decrease competition for resources.

Answer: B


Ella has several wooden blocks. When Ella holds the blocks in her hand, she feels that they are rough. Which term best describes what Ella feels? [SEP] A. a prediction [SEP] B. a conclusion [SEP] C. a hypothesis [SEP] D. an observation

Answer: D


Which is most likely a cancer treatment? [SEP] A. a drug that kills only very small cells [SEP] B. a drug that kills only very large cells [SEP] C. a drug that kills only slowly dividing cells [SEP] D. a drug that kills only rapidly dividing cells

Answer: D


What happens to the physical state of water when it freezes? [SEP] A. expands [SEP] B. contracts [SEP] C. changes color [SEP] D. becomes warm

Answer: A


When electric current flows through the metal filament of a light bulb, electrical energy is converted to [SEP] A. heat energy only. [SEP] B. heat and light energy. [SEP] C. light and motion energy. [SEP] D. light energy only.

Answer: B


At night, the Moon is the brightest object in the sky. Where does the Moon's light come from? [SEP] A. The Moon reflects light from Earth. [SEP] B. The Moon reflects light from the Sun. [SEP] C. The Moon makes light beneath its surface. [SEP] D. The Moon has rocks on its surface that glow.

Answer: B


Strong winds have the ability to uproot large trees in a wooded area. Which of these organisms would most likely benefit from this change in a habitat? [SEP] A. a bee colony that needs a hive [SEP] B. a bird that needs to build a nest [SEP] C. a squirrel that needs to find shelter [SEP] D. a plant that needs sunlight to grow

Answer: D


Residential construction is expanding in Florida. The expansion has caused fragmentation of habitats. One of the results of the increased construction is a decrease in the number of large predators such as the coyote, black bear, and panther. Which will be the most immediate local result of this fragmentation? [SEP] A. decrease in middle-sized predators [SEP] B. large predators will become extinct [SEP] C. increase in population of prey species [SEP] D. increase in population of top carnivores

Answer: C


Which of these resources is renewable? [SEP] A. natural gas [SEP] B. oil [SEP] C. coal [SEP] D. wind

Answer: D


Which property of air does a barometer measure? [SEP] A. speed [SEP] B. pressure [SEP] C. humidity [SEP] D. temperature

Answer: B


Which measurement represents the mass of an object? [SEP] A. 35 centimeters [SEP] B. 35 grams [SEP] C. 35 liters [SEP] D. 35 degrees

Answer: B


The primary function of insulin in our bodies is to [SEP] A. store fuel for later use. [SEP] B. regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. [SEP] C. increase the efficiency of fuel consumption. [SEP] D. prevent digestive bacteria from consuming glucose.

Answer: B


Which type of organism is the best at fixing nitrogen? [SEP] A. bacteria [SEP] B. fungi [SEP] C. protists [SEP] D. animals

Answer: A


A scientist studies how weathering and erosion can change the shape of a mountain. The scientist needs to collect information over what period of time to gather the most accurate information? [SEP] A. days [SEP] B. weeks [SEP] C. months [SEP] D. years

Answer: D


Many types of organisms live in a meadow. With the introduction of a large, swift-moving predator into the meadow ecosystem, which group of organisms will MOST likely have an advantage of surviving and reproducing? [SEP] A. mice that have the thickest fur [SEP] B. foxes that have the largest ears [SEP] C. gophers that dig the deepest holes [SEP] D. rabbits that can run the fastest

Answer: D


The systems of the human body work together. Which system works with the skeletal system by pulling on the bones to create movement? [SEP] A. digestive [SEP] B. circulatory [SEP] C. muscular [SEP] D. nervous

Answer: C


Scientists Stanley Miller and Harold Urey sealed water, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen in a flask, to simulate Earth's early environment. They exposed the chemicals to electric charges to simulate lighting. What did the process produce? [SEP] A. bacteria [SEP] B. nucleic acids [SEP] C. viruses [SEP] D. amino acids

Answer: D


Many birds fly south for the winter. This adaptation is called [SEP] A. hibernation [SEP] B. germination [SEP] C. migration [SEP] D. communication

Answer: C


Air is made up of many gases. Which gas is found in the greatest amount? [SEP] A. Nitrogen [SEP] B. Oxygen [SEP] C. Carbon dioxide [SEP] D. Hydrogen

Answer: A


Biotic forces can cause changes to the surface of Earth. Which is the best example of living organisms causing weathering? [SEP] A. Beavers building a dam across a stream. [SEP] B. Cattle walking and grazing in a grassland. [SEP] C. Salmon making nests for their eggs in a stream. [SEP] D. Tree seedlings growing and forming cracks in rocks.

Answer: D


The digestion process begins in which of the following? [SEP] A. large intestine [SEP] B. mouth [SEP] C. small intestine [SEP] D. stomach

Answer: B


Certain fossils can be used to help determine the age of the rock layer in which the fossils are found. Which type of fossil is best to use when making this determination? [SEP] A. marine mammal fossil [SEP] B. swamp fern fossil [SEP] C. trace fossil [SEP] D. index fossil

Answer: D


In pea plants, tall is dominant over short. What size pea plants will result when a pure tall plant is crossed with a pure short plant? [SEP] A. middle-sized plants [SEP] B. short plants [SEP] C. tall plants [SEP] D. some tall and some short plants

Answer: C


One way animals usually respond to a sudden drop in temperature is by [SEP] A. sweating [SEP] B. shivering [SEP] C. blinking [SEP] D. salivating

Answer: B


The continental crust floats on top of the mantle because the crust is [SEP] A. less dense than the mantle. [SEP] B. made of a liquid material. [SEP] C. made up of oxygen which is a light element. [SEP] D. separated from the mantle by a layer of water.

Answer: A


Joanne wants to investigate factors that affect different patterns of the flight of bees. Which step in the scientific method must she follow before forming a hypothesis? [SEP] A. record data of numbers of bees [SEP] B. measure the distances of bee flights [SEP] C. draw a conclusion about when bees fly [SEP] D. gather information about flight patterns

Answer: D


Which set contains kingdoms that contain only heterotrophs? [SEP] A. Protists, Fungi [SEP] B. Bacteria, Animals [SEP] C. Plants, Fungi [SEP] D. Animals, Fungi

Answer: D


Chromosomes contain the genetic information of an organism. Fruit flies reproduce by sexual reproduction. Most of the cells of a fruit fly have 8 chromosomes. Which statement best explains the source of the chromosomes in a normal fertilized fruit fly egg? [SEP] A. The egg cell contains all 8 chromosomes. [SEP] B. The sperm cell contains all 8 chromosomes. [SEP] C. The sperm cell provides 4 chromosomes and the egg cell provides 4 chromosomes. [SEP] D. The egg cell provides 4 chromosomes and 4 sperm cells each provide 1 chromosome.

Answer: C


Which weather instrument measures air pressure? [SEP] A. thermometer [SEP] B. anemometer [SEP] C. rain gauge [SEP] D. barometer

Answer: D


A volcano under the ocean slowly releases lava over time. As the lava is released, it cools and hardens on the ocean floor. Which feature will most likely form from the release and cooling of the lava on the ocean floor over time? [SEP] A. a fault [SEP] B. an island [SEP] C. a reef [SEP] D. a sandbar

Answer: B


The main function of a duck's webbed feet is to help the duck [SEP] A. make noise [SEP] B. protect itself [SEP] C. swim in water [SEP] D. find a mate

Answer: C


Which is a quick process that can form new land near an ocean? [SEP] A. earthquake [SEP] B. landslide [SEP] C. volcano erupting [SEP] D. weathering from waves

Answer: C


Which of these features of Earth's crust are caused by the shifting of tectonic plates? [SEP] A. mid-ocean ridges [SEP] B. desert sand dunes [SEP] C. U-shaped valleys [SEP] D. continental shelves

Answer: A


Which of the following helps the leaves break down after they have fallen off the tree? [SEP] A. meat-eaters [SEP] B. rocks [SEP] C. decomposers [SEP] D. cold temperatures

Answer: C


Where are proteins synthesized? [SEP] A. mitochondria [SEP] B. ribosomes [SEP] C. centrioles [SEP] D. lysosomes

Answer: B


When compared to current average conditions, which term would best describe conditions in Earth's lower atmosphere if greenhouse gases were absent? [SEP] A. denser [SEP] B. cooler [SEP] C. wetter [SEP] D. cloudier

Answer: B


Plumes of water vapor have been observed rising from the southern polar region of Enceladus, one of the moons of Saturn. A team of scientists proposed an explanation for the plumes and developed a model. They also published calculations based on their model. These calculations would most likely be used for which purpose in future research? [SEP] A. testing the hypothesis [SEP] B. evaluating similar events [SEP] C. mapping routes for exploration [SEP] D. checking the validity of observations

Answer: B


If water gets into the crack of a rock and then freezes, the rock will MOST likely [SEP] A. break apart [SEP] B. be able to float [SEP] C. become larger [SEP] D. change colors

Answer: A


Which organisms form the base of all ecosystems? [SEP] A. scavengers [SEP] B. producers [SEP] C. consumers [SEP] D. decomposers

Answer: B


Martin is writing a report for science class about how the tilt of Earth affects living organisms. Which subject should Martin include in his report that is directly affected by Earth's tilt? [SEP] A. night and day [SEP] B. cloud formation [SEP] C. phases of the Moon [SEP] D. changing of the seasons

Answer: D


In what way do transit systems, such as buses, benefit society? [SEP] A. by reducing the amount of pollution [SEP] B. by increasing the number of car sales [SEP] C. by increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the air [SEP] D. by eliminating the possibility of accidents

Answer: A


Increased nutrient levels in lakes can cause ecological changes that result in the death of many fish. At what point in the hydrological cycle are most nutrients deposited into lakes? [SEP] A. runoff [SEP] B. evaporation [SEP] C. precipitation [SEP] D. transpiration

Answer: A


Which of these cell parts contain instructions for the passage of traits from one generation to the next? [SEP] A. cell membrane [SEP] B. Golgi apparatus [SEP] C. chromosomes [SEP] D. endoplasmic reticulum

Answer: C


Which action causes a chemical change? [SEP] A. leaves dropping from a tree [SEP] B. leaves blowing in the wind [SEP] C. leaves being burned in a fire [SEP] D. leaves being crushed into pieces

Answer: C


Which type of organism would most likely benefit directly from increased levels of CO_{2}? [SEP] A. fish [SEP] B. bird [SEP] C. tree [SEP] D. mushroom

Answer: C


When the lighted half of the Moon faces the Sun and the dark half faces Earth, the phase of the Moon viewed from Earth is called the [SEP] A. full moon. [SEP] B. new moon. [SEP] C. waxing moon. [SEP] D. waning moon.

Answer: B


The flower petals of a hydrangea plant change color as the acidity of the soil changes. The color changes are directly related to which factor? [SEP] A. gravitropism [SEP] B. photosynthesis [SEP] C. geographic location [SEP] D. environmental conditions

Answer: D


What is significant about the discovery of water on Mars? [SEP] A. It proves there is life on Mars. [SEP] B. It provides evidence there may be life on Mars. [SEP] C. It proves there was an advanced civilization on Mars. [SEP] D. It provides evidence of an advanced civilization on Mars.

Answer: B


A teacher places an item in a box. The item takes the shape of the entire container. This item is most likely [SEP] A. air. [SEP] B. milk. [SEP] C. water. [SEP] D. paint.

Answer: A


In New York State, the shortest period of daylight occurs during which month? [SEP] A. December [SEP] B. June [SEP] C. March [SEP] D. September

Answer: A


During which of the processes below does water vapor change to liquid water? [SEP] A. melting [SEP] B. freezing [SEP] C. evaporation [SEP] D. condensation

Answer: D


Which technological advancement has done the most to improve the accuracy of weather predictions? [SEP] A. barometer [SEP] B. weather balloons [SEP] C. anemometer [SEP] D. satellites

Answer: D


An important rule for students to know when heating a test tube is to [SEP] A. place a cork in the mouth of the test tube. [SEP] B. point the mouth of the test tube away from others. [SEP] C. hold the test tube loosely with the fingertips. [SEP] D. shake the test tube forcefully to keep contents mixed.

Answer: B


How would a drought most likely affect the plants of a grassy plain? [SEP] A. There would be shorter plants. [SEP] B. They would have thicker stems. [SEP] C. There would be a greater variety. [SEP] D. They would have brighter flowers.

Answer: A


The brain and spinal cord are parts of which body system? [SEP] A. nervous [SEP] B. excretory [SEP] C. endocrine [SEP] D. respiratory

Answer: A


Chromosome mutations involve the deletion or duplication of many genes. The effects of chromosome mutations are often much greater than mutations within a single gene, because chromosome mutations [SEP] A. can only occur at the time of fertilization. [SEP] B. can cause abnormal development of the offspring. [SEP] C. are always beneficial to the organism. [SEP] D. are rarely passed on to the next generation.

Answer: B


What will most likely result when the jet stream moves south of North Carolina? [SEP] A. North Carolina will experience tropical weather conditions. [SEP] B. North Carolina will experience hot, dry weather. [SEP] C. North Carolina will experience mild weather. [SEP] D. North Carolina will experience cold weather.

Answer: D


Estuaries in Florida often have mangrove trees growing in them. The roots of the mangrove trees slow the flow of the water, which allows soil particles to settle. If people were allowed to remove the mangrove trees, how would the estuary environment most likely be affected? [SEP] A. The amounts of nutrients in the water would decrease. [SEP] B. More habitats for fish would be established. [SEP] C. Populations of grasses would increase. [SEP] D. The risk of erosion would be reduced.

Answer: A


Which sense can be used to determine an object's ability to reflect light? [SEP] A. sight [SEP] B. hearing [SEP] C. smell [SEP] D. taste

Answer: A


The North America Nebula is named for its similarity in shape to the North American continent. It was discovered within the Milky Way by astronomer William Herschel in 1790. What was Mr. Herschel most likely observing? [SEP] A. the explosion following the collapse of a star [SEP] B. a dense cluster of stars of varying magnitudes [SEP] C. meteorites as Earth passed through the tail of a comet [SEP] D. a cloud of hydrogen gas and dust where stars are born

Answer: D


Which animals are most likely to carry the seeds found in berries from the parent plant to another area? [SEP] A. bees [SEP] B. birds [SEP] C. flies [SEP] D. caterpillars

Answer: B


All rocks are composed of [SEP] 1. fossils [SEP] 2. cells [SEP] 3. metals [SEP] 4. minerals

Answer: 4


In some dry areas, large amounts of water have been pumped from underground sources where water has been naturally stored for thousands of years. If the water is not replaced, what type of land feature is most likely to result? [SEP] A. delta [SEP] B. lake [SEP] C. desert [SEP] D. mountains

Answer: C


Which scientist studied biology by traveling by ship to different islands observing animal life, and developed a hypothesis about how species change? [SEP] A. Galileo Galilei [SEP] B. Albert Einstein [SEP] C. Charles Darwin [SEP] D. Sir Isaac Newton

Answer: C


How does a student best avoid becoming dehydrated during a field investigation on a hot day? [SEP] A. drink water from a bottle [SEP] B. wear a wide-brimmed hat [SEP] C. drink a lot before leaving school [SEP] D. drink from a clear running stream

Answer: A


The primary function of a doorbell circuit is to convert electrical energy into [SEP] A. sound. [SEP] B. motion. [SEP] C. radiant energy. [SEP] D. chemical energy.

Answer: A


A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through Earth's shadow. A lunar eclipse can only occur during a [SEP] A. full moon. [SEP] B. new moon. [SEP] C. first quarter moon. [SEP] D. last quarter moon.

Answer: A


A recent study concluded that about 90% of all large predatory fish such as tuna have disappeared from the world's oceans in the past 50 years. Which of these is most likely the direct cause of this loss? [SEP] A. Urban development near the coast [SEP] B. Commercial harvesting from the ocean [SEP] C. Climate change on Earth [SEP] D. Acid precipitation over the oceans

Answer: B


When an ice cube melts, its state of matter changes from a [SEP] A. gas to a liquid [SEP] B. solid to a liquid [SEP] C. liquid to a solid [SEP] D. solid to a gas

Answer: B


In which way are evaporation and condensation similar? [SEP] A. Both cause decreases in air temperature. [SEP] B. Both cause increases in air temperature. [SEP] C. Both are caused by the warming of the atmosphere. [SEP] D. Both are caused by changes in heat energy.

Answer: D


The surface of a heated metal object measures 120°C. It is dropped into a bucket filled with water measuring 10°C. Which of the following is most likely to occur? [SEP] A. Both the water and metal will adjust to the same temperature below 10°C. [SEP] B. The water and metal will adjust to different temperatures above 120°C. [SEP] C. The water will remain the same temperature, but the metal will cool to 10°C. [SEP] D. The water and metal will adjust to the same temperature between 10°C and 120°C.

Answer: D


In order to record the passing of a distant comet, which instruments would be the most useful? [SEP] A. camera, tripod, and telescope [SEP] B. telescope, binoculars, and camera [SEP] C. camera with flash attachment, and tripod [SEP] D. telescope with camera attachment and camera

Answer: D


Temperature is the measurement of which type of energy? [SEP] A. chemical [SEP] B. mechanical [SEP] C. potential [SEP] D. kinetic

Answer: D


Scientists are discovering ways to make some crops use less water. A person working in which job would most benefit from this research? [SEP] A. a farmer [SEP] B. a doctor [SEP] C. a waiter [SEP] D. a cook

Answer: A


Stem cells are cells that can differentiate into many different kinds of cells. Scientists have discovered that the environment supporting the cells influences stem-cell differentiation. For example, stem cells grown on strong, flexible surfaces became muscle cells. What most likely happened to stem cells grown on a hard, rigid surface? [SEP] A. They became nerve cells. [SEP] B. They became red blood cells. [SEP] C. They became bone cells. [SEP] D. They became skin cells.

Answer: C


Sherry is going to use her computer to draw a three-dimensional box. She wants to be able to specify the exact dimensions and angles and to rotate the box as needed on the screen. Which of the following types of programs would Sherry most likely use for this purpose? [SEP] A. word processing software [SEP] B. math spreadsheet program [SEP] C. Internet-based search engine [SEP] D. computer-aided design program

Answer: D


Scientists who have studied the hydrosphere concluded that about 71% of Earth is covered with water. Which part of the hydrosphere is most often associated with the formation of organic rocks? [SEP] A. lakes [SEP] B. oceans [SEP] C. ponds [SEP] D. rivers

Answer: B


Which property of proteins best allows them to perform an enormously diverse range of functions? [SEP] A. their large, chemical-energy reserve [SEP] B. their large, stored-electric potential [SEP] C. the complexity of their folded structure [SEP] D. the wide variety of elements they include

Answer: C


The mathematical model for calculating speed is shown below. Speed = distance/time. An airplane traveled 700 kilometers in two hours during a trip. What was the average speed of the plane during the trip? [SEP] A. 5.8 kilometers per hour [SEP] B. 350 kilometers per hour [SEP] C. 1400 kilometers per hour [SEP] D. 84,000 kilometers per hour

Answer: B


What is the best way for a marine scientist to determine the eating habits of sharks? [SEP] A. Tag one shark and monitor its eating habits for one day. [SEP] B. Tag one shark and monitor its eating habits for one year. [SEP] C. Tag several sharks and monitor their eating habits for one day. [SEP] D. Tag several sharks and monitor their eating habits for one year.

Answer: D


A student pushes a wooden block across a sheet of sandpaper. Which characteristic of the block increases? [SEP] A. hardness [SEP] B. mass [SEP] C. size [SEP] D. temperature

Answer: D


Amanda is learning about different adaptations of animals. Which is an example of a behavioral adaptation? [SEP] A. webbed feet on a duck [SEP] B. migration of songbirds [SEP] C. sharp eyesight of an eagle [SEP] D. camouflaged colors on a frog

Answer: B


Which of the following is the best example of a custom-made product? [SEP] A. graphing calculator [SEP] B. light bulb [SEP] C. needle nose pliers [SEP] D. artificial leg

Answer: D


Michelle is interested in improving the quality of the soil in her yard. She wants more water and air to penetrate the soil. What should she add to the soil to help her achieve this goal? [SEP] A. bacteria [SEP] B. fertilizers [SEP] C. pesticides [SEP] D. earthworms

Answer: D


Which of these could cause water vapor to condense into rain droplets? [SEP] A. sunlight warming the surface of oceans [SEP] B. air rising into colder regions of the atmosphere [SEP] C. lightning heating the air in the atmosphere [SEP] D. winds blowing along the surface of the ground

Answer: B


The human body processes and eliminates food waste using the organs of the excretory system. Which organelle performs a similar function in humans at the cellular level? [SEP] A. mitochondrion [SEP] B. endoplasmic reticulum [SEP] C. lysosome [SEP] D. Golgi complex

Answer: C


What causes the most soil and rock erosion? [SEP] A. sun [SEP] B. wind [SEP] C. water [SEP] D. gravity

Answer: C


The theory of continental drift states that the land masses called continents were once closer together and have drifted apart over time. Which circumstance is the strongest evidence in support of this theory? [SEP] A. the migration patterns of birds [SEP] B. the periodic climate changes of Earth [SEP] C. the large variety of animals on each continent [SEP] D. the similarity of fossils on different continents

Answer: D


Rich beds of marine fossils have been found in Florida. By dating these fossils, scientists can best determine [SEP] A. when Florida collided with the North American continent. [SEP] B. the date when organisms moved onto dry land. [SEP] C. the period during which Florida was covered in water. [SEP] D. when the atmosphere of Earth was more humid than it is today.

Answer: C


In the forest, one type of tree produces special seeds. These seeds start to grow only after going through a fire. In the fire, the adult trees are destroyed. Which resources, needed for growth, are now available to the newly growing seeds? [SEP] A. sunlight and wind [SEP] B. sunlight and space [SEP] C. soil and pollen producers [SEP] D. pollen producers and space

Answer: B


Which is an example of a decomposer? [SEP] A. a hawk [SEP] B. a mouse [SEP] C. a flower [SEP] D. a mushroom

Answer: D


In the lab, students are working with substances that could cause burns. Which of these safety precautions is most important to follow? [SEP] A. Sinks are empty. [SEP] B. Glassware is clean. [SEP] C. Eye protection is worn. [SEP] D. Electrical equipment is off.

Answer: C


Which process moves an ion across a cell membrane against the concentration gradient? [SEP] A. diffusion [SEP] B. exocytosis [SEP] C. facilitated diffusion [SEP] D. active transport

Answer: D


Which would most likely be the characteristic of an object with a small volume and large mass? [SEP] A. high density [SEP] B. low pressure [SEP] C. low viscosity [SEP] D. high temperature

Answer: A


Which of these describes a small range in the electromagnetic spectrum? [SEP] A. gravity [SEP] B. radiation [SEP] C. electricity [SEP] D. light

Answer: D


An idea that the universe originated with an explosion is supported by repeated observations of light from distant galaxies traveling away from Earth. An idea that has been tested repeatedly and is supported by repeated results is most likely a [SEP] A. hypothesis. [SEP] B. theory. [SEP] C. law. [SEP] D. fact.

Answer: B


Natural selection cannot occur without [SEP] A. competition for unlimited resources. [SEP] B. gradual warming of Earth. [SEP] C. genetic variation in species. [SEP] D. asexual reproduction in species.

Answer: C


In which of these investigations would pictures from a camera be most useful? [SEP] A. studying bird calls [SEP] B. studying exothermic reactions [SEP] C. studying the growth of plants [SEP] D. studying the diffusion of molecules

Answer: C


Of the examples listed, which event is thought by scientists to have led to the greatest extinction? [SEP] A. a volcano in Hawaii erupting [SEP] B. the construction of the Hoover Dam [SEP] C. whalers of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries [SEP] D. the Mississippi River flooding its banks each summer

Answer: C


The human stomach is protected from self-digestion by a layer of [SEP] A. bile. [SEP] B. mucus. [SEP] C. muscle. [SEP] D. white blood cells.

Answer: B


On a field trip, a student holds a frog and reports that it has slippery skin. This is an example of [SEP] A. a measurement [SEP] B. a prediction [SEP] C. an explanation [SEP] D. an observation

Answer: D


What most likely happens to soil when crops are not rotated from year to year? [SEP] A. The soil nutrients are depleted. [SEP] B. The soil fertility increases. [SEP] C. The soil becomes more porous. [SEP] D. The soil erodes less rapidly.

Answer: A


Materials must pass through a cell's semi-permeable membrane in order for energy to be utilized. This process is called [SEP] A. diffusion. [SEP] B. oxidation. [SEP] C. respiration. [SEP] D. reproduction.

Answer: A


What is a decomposer? [SEP] A. a living thing that breaks down dead organisms [SEP] B. a living thing that makes its own food [SEP] C. an animal that eats live plants [SEP] D. an animal that hunts other animals

Answer: A


Modern technology has had some positive and negative effects on society. Which would be a negative effect of advances in technology? [SEP] A. human jobs replaced by more efficient machines [SEP] B. decrease in production of solid waste [SEP] C. use of alternate sources of energy [SEP] D. reduction in habitat destruction

Answer: A


Which of the following allows a cell to become specialized? [SEP] A. location of the cell in the body [SEP] B. function of the cell in the body [SEP] C. different patterns of gene expression [SEP] D. different combinations of genes in the nucleus

Answer: C


Which tool would be best to use for counting the number of legs on an ant? [SEP] A. ruler [SEP] B. hand lens [SEP] C. calculator [SEP] D. microscope

Answer: B


A dragonfly develops through incomplete metamorphosis. Which stages does the dragonfly's life cycle include? [SEP] A. egg and larva [SEP] B. egg and nymph [SEP] C. larva and pupa [SEP] D. larva and nymph

Answer: B


When a cold front moves over a land region that has warm, moist air, a transfer of energy occurs. Cold air sinks and pushes warmer air upward. As energy is removed from the air, which change will most likely take place? [SEP] A. Ozone in the atmosphere will decrease. [SEP] B. Less ultraviolet radiation will reach the land. [SEP] C. More water will be absorbed from the area lakes. [SEP] D. Water in the atmosphere will undergo a phase change.

Answer: D


Which sequence lists the levels of organization in the human body from simplest to most complex? [SEP] 1. organ system -> tissue -> cell -> organ [SEP] 2. tissue -> cell -> organ -> organ system [SEP] 3. organ -> organ system -> tissue -> cell [SEP] 4. cell -> tissue -> organ -> organ system

Answer: 4


Cancer is best described as [SEP] 1. a type of genetic engineering [SEP] 2. the merging of sex cells [SEP] 3. abnormal cell division [SEP] 4. tissue that stops growing

Answer: 3


To pump blood through the body, the heart must overcome the force of gravity. Which body position would require the least work from the heart? [SEP] A. sitting [SEP] B. standing [SEP] C. kneeling [SEP] D. lying down

Answer: D


In order to grow two of the exact same plants, a person would reproduce them asexually because the [SEP] A. genetic diversity is greater. [SEP] B. offspring would be genetically identical. [SEP] C. recessive traits would emerge. [SEP] D. negative traits are suppressed.

Answer: B


In flowering plants, what structure containing DNA is transported from one plant to another? [SEP] A. nectar [SEP] B. chlorophyll [SEP] C. glucose [SEP] D. pollen

Answer: D


Several interchangeable parts are used in the manufacture of automobiles. Some examples of these parts are batteries, windshield wiper blades, spark plugs, and tires. Which of the following is an advantage of interchangeable parts over non-interchangeable parts on automobiles? [SEP] A. Interchangeable parts are generally more expensive than custom-made parts for automobiles. [SEP] B. Interchangeable parts break more often now than in years past on most automobiles. [SEP] C. Interchangeable parts are plentiful for custom-made automobiles. [SEP] D. Interchangeable parts can fit many kinds of automobiles.

Answer: D


Which of the following represents a chemical reaction? [SEP] A. a sugar cube dissolving in water. [SEP] B. ice cubes forming in a freezer. [SEP] C. ice cream melting in a bowl. [SEP] D. a cake baking in an oven.

Answer: D


When a hammer strikes a nail, the nail [SEP] A. exerts balanced forces that helps it from moving. [SEP] B. exerts a force equal to the weight of the hammer. [SEP] C. exerts an unbalanced force that changes its velocity. [SEP] D. exerts an equal and opposite force back on the hammer.

Answer: D


Which of these natural events occurs at time intervals that are the most regular? [SEP] A. drought and flooding [SEP] B. high tides and low tides [SEP] C. clear skies and cloudy skies [SEP] D. hot weather and cool weather

Answer: B


A student combined rice cereal with melted marshmallows. Which best describes what the student made? [SEP] A. an atom [SEP] B. a mixture [SEP] C. a molecule [SEP] D. an element

Answer: B


Brittany pedaled her bicycle quickly on a level surface. When she stopped pedaling and coasted, the bicycle slowed and came to a stop. What happened to the energy of the moving bicycle as it coasted to a stop? [SEP] A. It was transferred to heat due to friction. [SEP] B. It was reabsorbed into Brittany's muscles. [SEP] C. It was stored in the bicycle wheels as potential energy. [SEP] D. It was transferred to the air in the form of visible light.

Answer: A


Homes that are built to be environmentally friendly because they use energy more efficiently than other homes are called "green" homes. "Green" homes often have reflective roofs and walls made of recycled materials. The windows in these energy-saving homes are double-paned, meaning each window has two pieces of glass. Double-paned windows have a layer of air between the window panes. This layer is a barrier against extreme temperatures and saves energy. A solar panel on a "green" home uses [SEP] A. chemical energy [SEP] B. mechanical energy [SEP] C. a renewable energy source [SEP] D. a nonrenewable energy source

Answer: C


Which process occurs when rocks and soil slide down a mountain? [SEP] A. erosion [SEP] B. migration [SEP] C. recycling [SEP] D. maintenance

Answer: A


Tony is studying ladybugs in a garden. Which of these would BEST help Tony to count the spots on a ladybug? [SEP] A. Stopwatch [SEP] B. Thermometer [SEP] C. Measuring cup [SEP] D. Magnifying glass

Answer: D


Which is a physical property of an apple? [SEP] A. what color it is [SEP] B. how pretty it is [SEP] C. how much it costs [SEP] D. when it was picked

Answer: A


Repeated pesticide use on an insect population can result in some of the insects becoming resistant to that pesticide over time. Which process is responsible for the pesticides no longer being effective on the insects? [SEP] A. divergent evolution [SEP] B. natural selection [SEP] C. bottleneck effect [SEP] D. selective breeding

Answer: B


A boy pulls a sweater off over his head. His hair is attracted to the sweater due to [SEP] 1. a magnetic force [SEP] 2. a heat transfer [SEP] 3. a chemical change [SEP] 4. an electrical charge

Answer: 4


In some communities, forests are cleared through burning, and the deforested land is used for farming. Which of these is a negative consequence of this practice? [SEP] A. decreased plant and animal diversity [SEP] B. increased availability of soil nutrients [SEP] C. greater access to water for plants and animals [SEP] D. less sunlight reaching the ground

Answer: A


Some plant cells are coated in a waxy layer that prevents water loss. This specialization is found in which plant cells? [SEP] A. internal stem cells [SEP] B. internal root cells [SEP] C. cells on the plant surface [SEP] D. cells in the plant reproductive system

Answer: C


Scientists recorded the hourly temperature at a weather station for the month of July and want to quickly measure a trend over time in temperature changes. Which of these formats would be the most appropriate representation of the temperature data to quickly measure any trend? [SEP] A. bar graph [SEP] B. line graph [SEP] C. pie chart [SEP] D. data table

Answer: B


A factory in Japan had been dumping mercury into Minamata Bay. Certain microorganisms in the water were able to change the mercury into a form that the plankton could use. Which most likely happened next? [SEP] A. The organisms built up a resistance to the mercury. [SEP] B. The mercury passed through the food chain. [SEP] C. The plankton made the mercury safe. [SEP] D. The fish would not eat the plankton.

Answer: B


Students conducted an investigation with green bananas. They hypothesized that an onion placed near a banana could increase the rate at which the banana ripened. They placed one onion and one banana in each of three containers. In a fourth container they placed a banana, but no onion. Which statement best explains why the onion was left out of the fourth container? [SEP] A. The onion would contaminate the fourth trial. [SEP] B. The container without the onion is the control. [SEP] C. Three containers with onions are enough to conduct the test. [SEP] D. The container without the onion is the independent variable.

Answer: B


When cold weather freezes water in the cracks of rocks, which would most likely happen? [SEP] A. The rocks would become rounded. [SEP] B. The rocks would be used for shelter. [SEP] C. The rocks would be moved by the wind. [SEP] D. The rocks would break into smaller pieces.

Answer: D


What would best regulate the temperature of an overheated body? [SEP] A. a decrease in sweating [SEP] B. a decrease in the breathing rate [SEP] C. a dilation of blood vessels in the skin [SEP] D. an increase in heart rate

Answer: C


The surface of Earth is constantly changing. Which of these findings provides the best evidence that the crustal surface of Earth has changed over time? [SEP] A. Some rock layers are very thick. [SEP] B. Some species have become extinct. [SEP] C. Marine fossils are found in mountain areas. [SEP] D. Igneous rock is found on all tectonic plates.

Answer: C


Solar radiation is a combination of light with different wavelengths. Which type of ray can harm human skin the most? [SEP] A. infrared [SEP] B. microwave [SEP] C. ultraviolet [SEP] D. visible

Answer: C


Water is often put through a treatment system before it is used in homes as drinking water. Which is the most likely reason water is treated before people drink it? [SEP] A. to remove harmful substances [SEP] B. to add color [SEP] C. to increase its supply [SEP] D. to decrease its temperature

Answer: A


How can plants most likely improve air quality? [SEP] A. by absorbing nutrients [SEP] B. by producing oxygen [SEP] C. by producing sugar [SEP] D. by absorbing water

Answer: B


A condition in bees called "colony collapse disorder" occurs when worker bees leave the hive to collect nectar and never return. How would a decline in the bee population most likely affect a farm ecosystem? [SEP] A. There would be a decrease in soil thickness. [SEP] B. There would be a decline in fruit production. [SEP] C. There would be an increase in plant diseases. [SEP] D. There would be an increase in insect pest populations.

Answer: B


How are animals that prey on other animals classified? [SEP] A. herbivores [SEP] B. carnivores [SEP] C. autotrophs [SEP] D. decomposers

Answer: B


Which process will separate the sugar from a mixture of sugar and water? [SEP] A. Stirring the mixture [SEP] B. Evaporating the water [SEP] C. Adding more water [SEP] D. Adding more sugar

Answer: B


Which movement of carbon between reservoirs takes the longest to achieve? [SEP] A. from burning coal to the atmosphere [SEP] B. from plant tissues to coal in the crust [SEP] C. from the atmosphere to the sugars in plants [SEP] D. from the respiration of fish to the ocean waters

Answer: B


Which types of objects are most easily seen by the human eye? [SEP] A. objects that reflect most of the light that strikes them [SEP] B. objects that refract most of the light that strikes them [SEP] C. objects that diffract most of the light that strikes them [SEP] D. objects that absorb most of the light that strikes them

Answer: A


Planting legumes in order to add nitrogen to soil most likely causes [SEP] A. a decrease in the amount of acid rain. [SEP] B. an enrichment in the fertility of the soil. [SEP] C. an increase in the ratio of nitrogen to oxygen in the system. [SEP] D. a reduction in the soil's ability to manufacture its own nitrogen.

Answer: B


Earth is about 81 times more massive than the Moon. How will the mass and weight of a rocket on the Moon compare to its mass and weight on Earth? [SEP] A. The mass and weight will be less on the Moon. [SEP] B. The mass and weight will be greater on the Moon. [SEP] C. The mass will be the same, but its weight will be less on the Moon. [SEP] D. The mass will be the same, but its weight will be greater on the Moon.

Answer: C


Louis Pasteur discovered a process that allows milk to be stored in sealed containers for long periods of time without spoiling. The process, called pasteurization, involves heating the milk before placing it in the sealed containers.Which is the best explanation of how pasteurization works? [SEP] A. Heat strengthens molecules that prevent spoiling. [SEP] B. The chemical structure of the food changes with the heat. [SEP] C. Heat killed microorganisms that could cause spoiling. [SEP] D. The food particles are better mixed after heating.

Answer: C


Which characteristic would best help a land animal survive in a cold Arctic climate? [SEP] A. thick fur [SEP] B. large ears [SEP] C. smooth feet [SEP] D. slender body

Answer: A


What is the most reasonable explanation for why a toy car rolls farther on a wood floor than on a thick carpet? [SEP] A. The car weighs more on the carpet. [SEP] B. The car weighs more on the floor. [SEP] C. The carpet has more resistance. [SEP] D. The floor has more traction.

Answer: C


What part of the scientific method involves measuring the growth of a plant over a one-month period? [SEP] A. analysis [SEP] B. observation [SEP] C. conclusion [SEP] D. hypothesis

Answer: B


Which statement on a toothpaste package best supports the claim of fighting cavities? [SEP] A. delivers great new flavor [SEP] B. patented triple cleansing action [SEP] C. guaranteed to make teeth sparkle [SEP] D. certified by the American Dental Association

Answer: D


Which is a chemical compound? [SEP] A. aluminum [SEP] B. carbonated water [SEP] C. sodium chloride [SEP] D. carbon-14

Answer: C


Which of these human activities in a forest has a positive effect on the ecosystem? [SEP] A. Clearing the land to build new homes [SEP] B. Planting new trees where old ones were cut down [SEP] C. Building a new highway through the area [SEP] D. Cutting down trees to make farmland

Answer: B


Which is an example of water condensing? [SEP] A. A puddle disappearing on a hot summer afternoon [SEP] B. Sweat forming on your forehead after you do a lot of exercise [SEP] C. Ice cubes melting when you put them out in the sun [SEP] D. Dew forming on plants during a cold night

Answer: D


Gregor Mendel studied ratios related to traits passed from parent pea plants to offspring pea plants. Mendel used large numbers of plants to avoid "sampling error." This changed the way scientists studied genetics because it included ideas of [SEP] A. nuclei and DNA. [SEP] B. atoms and molecules. [SEP] C. ecology and environment. [SEP] D. mathematics and probability.

Answer: D


What season is the Northern Hemisphere experiencing when it is tilted directly toward the Sun? [SEP] A. fall [SEP] B. winter [SEP] C. spring [SEP] D. summer

Answer: D


Which species have been on the Earth for the shortest amount of time? [SEP] A. Humans [SEP] B. Insects [SEP] C. Fish [SEP] D. Reptiles

Answer: A


Which tool should be used to compare the growth of an algal colony growing in a petri dish? [SEP] A. a scale [SEP] B. a ruler [SEP] C. a hand lens [SEP] D. a balance scale

Answer: C


Use The Periodic Table of the Elements and the information below to answer the question. Magnesium metal (Mg) is grayish-white in color and reacts actively with water. Fluorine (F2) is a greenish-yellow gas at room temperature and is a member of the halogen family. These two elements react to produce magnesium fluoride (MgF2), a chemical commonly used in making windows and lenses. How do the elements magnesium (Mg) and fluorine (F2) produce the compound magnesium fluoride (MgF2)? [SEP] A. by nuclear connection [SEP] B. by physically combining [SEP] C. by magnetic connection [SEP] D. by chemically combining

Answer: D


Male barn swallow birds with symmetrically-shaped wings find mates more quickly than males with asymmetrical wing shapes. Which statement best explains the significance of symmetry in the barn swallow population? [SEP] A. Symmetrical wings are attractive to females. [SEP] B. Symmetrical wings indicate genetic mutations. [SEP] C. Symmetrical wings indicate that males are good predators. [SEP] D. Symmetrical wings are signs that a bird is very aggressive.

Answer: A


Which of the following would be most useful for calculating the density of a rock sample? [SEP] A. microscope and balance [SEP] B. graduated cylinder and balance [SEP] C. microscope and graduated cylinder [SEP] D. beaker and graduated cylinder

Answer: B


Which object in our solar system reflects light and is a satellite that orbits around one planet? [SEP] A. Earth [SEP] B. Mercury [SEP] C. the Sun [SEP] D. the Moon

Answer: D


Students stir salt, sand, sawdust, and seashells into a jar filled with water. Which of the materials will form a solution? [SEP] A. salt and water [SEP] B. sand and sawdust [SEP] C. seashells and water [SEP] D. sawdust and seashells

Answer: A


Which scale is used to report the intensity of an earthquake? [SEP] A. Saffir-Simpson Scale [SEP] B. Modified Mercalli Scale [SEP] C. Richter Magnitude Scale [SEP] D. Moment Magnitude Scale

Answer: B


What is the outermost structure in a plant cell? [SEP] 1. cell membrane [SEP] 2. cytoplasm [SEP] 3. cell wall [SEP] 4. chloroplast

Answer: 3


The main source of food for a coyote population in one area is mice. Which is most likely to happen to these coyotes if a new predator begins eating the mice? [SEP] A. There will be fewer coyotes. [SEP] B. The coyotes will produce more young. [SEP] C. More coyotes will arrive from other locations. [SEP] D. Each coyote will spend less time hunting food.

Answer: A


The best example of heat transfer by convection is when [SEP] A. sunlight warms soil. [SEP] B. a ceiling fan blows air. [SEP] C. flames heat up a pan. [SEP] D. heat rises in a chimney.

Answer: D


A worker needs to load a heavy box onto a truck. The worker uses a ramp to move the box because the ramp [SEP] A. increases the weight of the box. [SEP] B. reduces the gravitational force on the box. [SEP] C. increases the amount of friction on the box. [SEP] D. reduces the amount of force applied to the box.

Answer: D


A fox grows thicker fur as a season changes. This adaptation helps the fox to [SEP] A. find food [SEP] B. keep warmer [SEP] C. grow stronger [SEP] D. escape from predators

Answer: B


What is the main source of raw material for the production of plastics? [SEP] A. clay [SEP] B. plants [SEP] C. petroleum [SEP] D. sand

Answer: C


The students in an engineering class built a robot that stacks wooden blocks. A built-in computer controls the movement of the robot. The computer in the robot performs a function most similar to which part of the human body? [SEP] A. lungs [SEP] B. heart [SEP] C. brain [SEP] D. arms

Answer: C


When sugar is heated on a hot plate, it turns into a liquid. When the liquid sugar is cooled, a hard-crystalline substance is formed. This model best demonstrates the formation of [SEP] A. molten rocks. [SEP] B. igneous rocks. [SEP] C. sedimentary rocks. [SEP] D. metamorphic rocks.

Answer: B


Which distance is the smallest for which it is most practical to use the light-year as a unit of measurement? [SEP] A. the distance between Earth and its Moon [SEP] B. the distance between Jupiter and the Sun [SEP] C. the distance between the Milky Way and the nearest galaxy [SEP] D. the distance between the Sun and the center of the Milky Way

Answer: D


Which of the following devices relies on electromagnetic radiation in the radio wave region of the spectrum for operation? [SEP] A. sun tanning lamp [SEP] B. electric light bulb [SEP] C. cellular telephone [SEP] D. electric toaster

Answer: C


When a tree suffers from a decreased ability to transport materials within the phloem, what is directly impacted? [SEP] A. volume of water in the xylem [SEP] B. flow of necessary nutrients [SEP] C. response to environmental factors [SEP] D. rate of photosynthesis in leaves

Answer: B


Strontium, barium, and radium are grouped together on the Periodic Table of the Elements because they all have [SEP] A. a bright silver and white coloring. [SEP] B. similar electron configurations. [SEP] C. strong radioactive properties. [SEP] D. few or no stable isotopes.

Answer: B


An example of a poor health habit is [SEP] A. taking a bath or shower regularly [SEP] B. handwashing after using the bathroom [SEP] C. playing on a soccer team [SEP] D. eating candy instead of lunch

Answer: D


What type of inheritance controls blood types in humans? [SEP] A. incomplete dominance [SEP] B. polygenic inheritance [SEP] C. multiple alleles [SEP] D. recessive genes

Answer: C


Minerals can be identified using hardness, streak, and cleavage because [SEP] A. minerals are inorganic. [SEP] B. crystal structure is too hard to determine. [SEP] C. crystal size is determined by the environment. [SEP] D. minerals have different recognizable properties.

Answer: D


What is the process that produces energy in the Sun for billions of years? [SEP] A. fission [SEP] B. fusion [SEP] C. solar winds [SEP] D. solar radiation

Answer: B


Which statement is an opinion? [SEP] A. Chemistry and Physics are major branches of science. [SEP] B. Life Science is a subject filled with interesting information. [SEP] C. Geology and Oceanography are subjects in Earth Science. [SEP] D. Biology is a science that studies complex organisms.

Answer: B


Decomposers are organisms that obtain their food from dead organisms. Which of these would be classified as decomposers? [SEP] A. algae, plants [SEP] B. snakes, wolves, whales [SEP] C. deer, rabbits, mice [SEP] D. bacteria, fungi

Answer: D


DNA molecules contain the genetic information that determines the characteristics of a living organism. How do DNA molecules express the genetic information they contain? [SEP] A. by breaking down proteins within the cell [SEP] B. by directing the process of protein synthesis [SEP] C. by regulating the storage of cellular proteins [SEP] D. by controlling the movement of protein molecules

Answer: B


Fossil fuels were formed from [SEP] A. volcanoes [SEP] B. the remains of living things [SEP] C. gases in the atmosphere [SEP] D. water trapped inside rocks

Answer: B


Which of the following remains constant in Earth's carbon cycle? [SEP] A. the total mass of available carbon [SEP] B. the way organisms use carbon [SEP] C. the physical state of carbon-containing molecules [SEP] D. the molecule in which a particular carbon atom is found

Answer: A


Which invention has technology that helps people keep food fresh for a long period of time? [SEP] A. dishwasher [SEP] B. refrigerator [SEP] C. electric mixer [SEP] D. microwave oven

Answer: B


A student is designing a model of the solar system and writing a report. She is trying to be as accurate as possible. Which statement should she include in her report? [SEP] A. The distance between the Sun and Earth is measured in light years. [SEP] B. Jupiter and Uranus are considered to be terrestrial planets. [SEP] C. The asteroid belt is located between Jupiter and Saturn. [SEP] D. The orbit of Mars is similar to the orbit of Saturn.

Answer: D


Stacey picks apples and puts them in a basket. When she puts her basket on a scale, the scale reads two kilograms (kg). What property is Stacey measuring? [SEP] A. height [SEP] B. weight [SEP] C. temperature [SEP] D. volume

Answer: B


Which feature is a physical property of copper? [SEP] A. insulates heat [SEP] B. conducts electricity [SEP] C. strong magnetic force [SEP] D. liquid at room temperature

Answer: B


Which term describes Earth's orbit around the Sun? [SEP] A. day [SEP] B. revolution [SEP] C. month [SEP] D. rotation

Answer: B


How do the waxy stem covering and needle-shaped leaves improve the ability of a cactus to survive in the desert? [SEP] A. They make the plant appetizing to small desert animals. [SEP] B. They prevent the loss of oxygen through photosynthesis. [SEP] C. They reduce the loss of water from the plant to the air. [SEP] D. They provide the storage space for different types of minerals.

Answer: C


Which characteristic of a cell membrane allows it to control materials entering and leaving a cell? [SEP] A. A cell membrane is surrounded by fluid. [SEP] B. A cell membrane is semipermeable. [SEP] C. A cell membrane holds organelles in place. [SEP] D. A cell membrane is found in plant and animal cells.

Answer: B


Which statement about all living organisms is true? [SEP] A. They have limbs. [SEP] B. They produce their own food. [SEP] C. They breathe air. [SEP] D. They have at least one cell.

Answer: D


The length of daylight changes as the seasons change during the year. What causes these changes in daylight? [SEP] A. Earth's tilt on its axis [SEP] B. the Sun's tilt on its axis [SEP] C. Earth spinning on its axis [SEP] D. the Sun spinning on its axis

Answer: A


The populations of black rhinoceroses have been impacted by human interactions to the point of being endangered. Which interaction best explains why the black rhino is now endangered? [SEP] A. over hunting [SEP] B. water pollution [SEP] C. airborne diseases [SEP] D. increased deforestation

Answer: A


A student had a cup of ice while working outside. After a while, the ice melted because the Sun emits energy in the form of light and [SEP] A. electricity. [SEP] B. heat. [SEP] C. magnetism. [SEP] D. sound.

Answer: B


What characteristic of viruses distinguishes them from cells? [SEP] A. They do not have hereditary material. [SEP] B. They are not separated from their environments. [SEP] C. They lack an independent metabolism. [SEP] D. Their traits do not evolve in response to selection pressures.

Answer: C


The energy required to lift an object is supplied by ATP derived from the breakdown of molecules of [SEP] A. glutamate. [SEP] B. glycerol. [SEP] C. glycolysis. [SEP] D. glucose.

Answer: D


Living cells synthesize long chains of amino acids called proteins. Which substance provides the information needed to correctly sequence the amino acids during protein synthesis? [SEP] A. ATP [SEP] B. mRNA [SEP] C. tRNA [SEP] D. DNA

Answer: D


Which of these makes it possible for hurricanes to form? [SEP] A. water depth [SEP] B. water clarity [SEP] C. water salinity [SEP] D. water temperature

Answer: D


Most types of cacti survive the dry conditions of a desert because they hold water in their stems. This is an example of [SEP] A. a niche. [SEP] B. a species. [SEP] C. an adaptation. [SEP] D. an ecosystem.

Answer: C


High-altitude cirrus clouds are primarily formed from which substance? [SEP] A. carbon dioxide gas [SEP] B. solid ice crystals [SEP] C. nitrogen compounds [SEP] D. ozone molecules

Answer: B


During a lab investigation a scientist heats a solid substance. The scientist observes that the solid has two different melting points. The scientist is able to separate the two resulting liquids. Which statement best classifies the original solid substance? [SEP] A. It was an atom. [SEP] B. It was a mixture. [SEP] C. It was an element. [SEP] D. It was a compound.

Answer: B


Over a long period of time, some flowering plants have become dependent on honey bees to fertilize their seeds. In recent years, a form of mite has infected and killed the honey bees in many areas of the country. Since this has happened, the once bee-dependent plants with the best chance of surviving are those that [SEP] A. grow taller so that the few remaining honey bees will find them. [SEP] B. change their flowers so that wind will fertilize them. [SEP] C. have always attracted many other insects as well as honey bees. [SEP] D. have seeds that stay alive for a long time in the environment.

Answer: C


Which landforms are most like hills but are much taller? [SEP] A. caves [SEP] B. mountains [SEP] C. plains [SEP] D. valleys

Answer: B


What is the basic unit of life? [SEP] A. atom [SEP] B. cell [SEP] C. element [SEP] D. nucleus

Answer: B


About how many Earth days does it take the Moon to travel around Earth? [SEP] A. 1 [SEP] B. 27 [SEP] C. 180 [SEP] D. 365

Answer: B


Students studying the atmosphere want to display the percentage of each greenhouse gas as compared to the total amount of greenhouse gases found in the atmosphere. Which representation would be most appropriate for displaying these percentages? [SEP] A. bar graph [SEP] B. line graph [SEP] C. pie chart [SEP] D. data table

Answer: C


The Himalayan Mountain chain is the youngest and tallest mountain chain on Earth. Which phenomenon contributed most to this area of continental buildup? [SEP] A. erosion of surrounding continental materials [SEP] B. eruptions of continental shield volcanoes [SEP] C. convergence of continental plates [SEP] D. subsidence of continental landmass

Answer: C


A large cold front is moving past the school on a hot, humid summer day. Which best describes the type of weather as the cold front passes by? [SEP] A. A drought [SEP] B. A monsoon [SEP] C. A hurricane [SEP] D. A thunderstorm

Answer: D


Growth and repair in multicellular organisms are the result of [SEP] 1. excretion [SEP] 2. locomotion [SEP] 3. cell division [SEP] 4. decomposition

Answer: 3