Phobos is one of two large objects that orbit the planet Mars. Because Phobos orbits Mars, Phobos should be classified as which type of body? [SEP] A. asteroid [SEP] B. moon [SEP] C. comet [SEP] D. meteor

Answer: B


Water at 20°C in an uncovered pan is evaporating very slowly. What could be done to the water to make it evaporate more quickly? [SEP] 1. Cover it. [SEP] 2. Heat it. [SEP] 3. Place it in the dark. [SEP] 4. Put salt in it.

Answer: 2


Which rapid changes are caused by heat from inside Earth? [SEP] A. landslides [SEP] B. volcanoes [SEP] C. avalanches [SEP] D. floods

Answer: B


Which tool is most responsible for preventing future pandemics of smallpox? [SEP] A. worldwide vaccination for smallpox [SEP] B. global education about smallpox [SEP] C. better worldwide urban sanitation [SEP] D. improved global quarantine facilities

Answer: A


After which event will ecological succession most likely happen? [SEP] A. a forest fire [SEP] B. a thunderstorm [SEP] C. a high tide [SEP] D. a lunar eclipse

Answer: A


Sir Isaac Newton determined that white light is made up of all the colors of the rainbow. What did he use to discover this phenomenon? [SEP] A. a prism [SEP] B. a telescope [SEP] C. a microscope [SEP] D. a magnifying glass

Answer: A


Which characteristic is most common among animals living in a cold climate? [SEP] A. layers of fat [SEP] B. thick bones [SEP] C. slow digestion [SEP] D. large lungs

Answer: A


Species are classified based on their characteristics. Which characteristic identifies two organisms as members of one species? The organisms [SEP] A. can produce fertile offspring. [SEP] B. can communicate easily. [SEP] C. will defend their territory. [SEP] D. will move from place to place.

Answer: A


A student hypothesizes that the amount of water a plant receives will affect how long it grows before reaching maturity. To test this hypothesis, the student will need [SEP] A. several digital scales. [SEP] B. a wet paper towel. [SEP] C. several identical plant seeds. [SEP] D. different sizes of containers.

Answer: C


One example of matter is [SEP] A. sound [SEP] B. light [SEP] C. heat [SEP] D. water

Answer: D


If a classroom experiment involves the use of several unidentified chemical solutions, which factor would be most important in maintaining safety during the experiment? [SEP] A. The classroom would be fairly cold. [SEP] B. The classroom would have poor lighting. [SEP] C. The classroom would have good ventilation. [SEP] D. The classroom would have carpet on the floors.

Answer: C


Vein deposits of gold and silver are often formed in areas that have experienced which geologic process? [SEP] A. igneous intrusion [SEP] B. transport by water [SEP] C. chemical weathering [SEP] D. compaction by pressure

Answer: A


Cells that conduct messages are known as [SEP] A. skin cells [SEP] B. nerve cells [SEP] C. blood cells [SEP] D. kidney cells

Answer: B


The boiling of water results in a physical change in matter from [SEP] A. solid to liquid. [SEP] B. gas to solid. [SEP] C. solid to gas. [SEP] D. liquid to gas.

Answer: D


What do playing a guitar, banging a drum, and dropping a pebble in the water have in common? [SEP] A. They all produce light. [SEP] B. They all cause vibrations. [SEP] C. They all convert heat to energy. [SEP] D. They all need gravity to move.

Answer: B


Which object below is gaining stored energy? [SEP] A. A rubber band that is being stretched [SEP] B. A battery in a flashlight that is on [SEP] C. A candle that is burning

Answer: A


At room temperature, what state of matter is copper? [SEP] A. gas [SEP] B. solid [SEP] C. liquid [SEP] D. plasma

Answer: B


All of the following events occur during prophase in mitosis except [SEP] A. pairing of chromosomes. [SEP] B. spindle formation. [SEP] C. crossing over. [SEP] D. condensation of DNA.

Answer: C


A seed of a plant sticks to the fur of an animal as it walks by. How has the animal most likely helped the plant? [SEP] A. by spreading the seed [SEP] B. by sprouting the plant [SEP] C. by scattering the pollen [SEP] D. by fertilizing the ground

Answer: A


Which part of a plant is used to absorb sunlight during photosynthesis? [SEP] A. leaf [SEP] B. root [SEP] C. seed [SEP] D. flower

Answer: A


You wish to closely observe a small insect. Which tool is the best to use? [SEP] A. a balance [SEP] B. a test tube [SEP] C. a telescope [SEP] D. a magnifying glass

Answer: D


The interaction of the skeletal and muscular systems to produce locomotion is coordinated by which human body system? [SEP] 1. circulatory [SEP] 2. excretory [SEP] 3. nervous [SEP] 4. respiratory

Answer: 3


A student flips a coin four times. It lands "heads" up three times. The student concludes that the coin will land "heads" up three times out of four. What will make the conclusion more accurate? [SEP] A. substituting a different coin [SEP] B. flipping the coin twenty more times [SEP] C. taping a weight to one side of the coin [SEP] D. flipping the coin over a smoother surface

Answer: B


Which mineral has six-sided transparent crystals that will scratch glass? [SEP] A. sulfur [SEP] B. quartz [SEP] C. calcite [SEP] D. feldspar

Answer: B


Which best describes a proton? [SEP] A. negatively charged and has a negligible mass [SEP] B. negatively charged and part of the nucleus [SEP] C. positively charged and part of the nucleus [SEP] D. negatively charged and orbits the nucleus

Answer: C


The difference between the atomic number of an element and the element's atomic mass is the number of [SEP] A. ions. [SEP] B. protons. [SEP] C. electrons. [SEP] D. neutrons.

Answer: D


Which step will most likely ensure that the results of an investigation are valid? [SEP] A. using a computer to graph results [SEP] B. verifying that results match the original hypothesis [SEP] C. comparing the results with those of other scientists [SEP] D. eliminating any results that appear to be abnormal

Answer: C


What is formed when a sodium atom and chlorine atom react chemically? [SEP] A. an element [SEP] B. a compound [SEP] C. an electron [SEP] D. a neutron

Answer: B


Which of these is an example of an endothermic process? [SEP] A. fireworks display [SEP] B. glowing light stick [SEP] C. first-aid instant cold pack [SEP] D. gasoline-burning car engine

Answer: C


The distance from Earth to the Sun is about 150,000,000 km. What abbreviation do scientists use to describe this distance? [SEP] A. meters per second (m/s) [SEP] B. light-year (ly) [SEP] C. astronomical unit (AU) [SEP] D. electromagnetic unit (EMU)

Answer: C


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

Answer: A


Which trait does a puppy inherit from its parents? [SEP] A. fur color and pattern [SEP] B. obedience to commands [SEP] C. food brand preferences [SEP] D. affection for a specific home

Answer: A


Which material is most easily recycled at school? [SEP] A. plastic wrap [SEP] B. notebook paper [SEP] C. ice cream sticks [SEP] D. rubber erasers

Answer: B


Plants make sugars in the presence of sunlight in a process called photosynthesis. What form of carbon do the plants take in for this process? [SEP] A. glucose molecule [SEP] B. carbon dioxide [SEP] C. single carbon atoms [SEP] D. complex organic compounds

Answer: B


The sun is a star of average size and brightness. From Earth, the sun appears as a round, yellow object in the daytime sky. At night, we see other stars. They appear as tiny points of light. Why does the sun appear larger than stars that we see at night? [SEP] A. Daylight brightens the sun, making it appear larger. [SEP] B. Starlight bends as it passes planets, making the stars appear smaller. [SEP] C. The sun is closer to Earth than other stars, making the sun appear larger. [SEP] D. Earth's atmosphere filters out light from other stars, making them appear smaller.

Answer: C


A drain cleaner consists of sodium hydroxide and aluminum. When the drain cleaner is added to water, bubbles of hydrogen are produced, and the solution becomes very hot. Which of these best describes what happens to form the bubbles when the cleaner is added to water? F [SEP] A. chemical reaction [SEP] B. Condensation [SEP] C. A physical change [SEP] D. Evaporation

Answer: A


John has diabetes. Which of the following should he be careful about eating or drinking? [SEP] A. beef [SEP] B. eggs [SEP] C. milk [SEP] D. fruit juice

Answer: D


Within a substance, atoms that collide frequently and move independently of one another are most likely in a [SEP] A. liquid. [SEP] B. solid. [SEP] C. gas. [SEP] D. crystal.

Answer: C


Which object best reflects light? [SEP] A. gray door [SEP] B. white floor [SEP] C. black sweater [SEP] D. brown carpet

Answer: B


The gravitational attraction of the Moon causes which effect on Earth? [SEP] A. ocean tides [SEP] B. time of day [SEP] C. energy from the Sun [SEP] D. phases of the Moon

Answer: A


A forest was cleared for the building of a resort, but before construction began, secondary succession set in. Which of these describes why secondary succession appeared so rapidly? [SEP] A. The clearing allowed mosses to grow quickly. [SEP] B. Rock weathering occurred for lichens to grow. [SEP] C. Exposed substrates allowed microbes to grow. [SEP] D. The soil components remained for plants to grow.

Answer: D


Which object is made to reflect light? [SEP] A. telescope [SEP] B. window [SEP] C. mirror [SEP] D. eyeglasses

Answer: C


A car may produce many forms of energy from the fuel it uses. Which indicates that a car does not use fuel with 100% efficiency? [SEP] A. The car changes speed. [SEP] B. The car engine gets hot. [SEP] C. The car stops quickly. [SEP] D. The car slides on slippery streets.

Answer: B


After nitrogen becomes part of the lithosphere, what is the next change that nitrogen will undergo? [SEP] A. used as a nutrient by plants [SEP] B. fixed by bacteria in the soil [SEP] C. converted into oxygen [SEP] D. absorbed into the atmosphere by lightning

Answer: B


Which of the following would be more likely to pollute a river? [SEP] A. allowing beavers to build a dam [SEP] B. spreading fertilizer near the river [SEP] C. mowing the grass on the river bank [SEP] D. fishing from a bridge over the river

Answer: B


For two organisms to be classified as the same species, they must produce offspring that are [SEP] A. fertile. [SEP] B. adaptable. [SEP] C. alive at birth. [SEP] D. identical to the parents.

Answer: A


Which sentence best describes the organization of the heart? [SEP] A. The heart is an organ made up of different types of tissues, each of which has different types of cells. [SEP] B. The heart is a tissue made up of different types of organs, each of which has different types of cells. [SEP] C. The heart is a system made up of one type of tissue and identical cells. [SEP] D. The heart is a tissue made up of one type of organ and identical cells.

Answer: A


Which stage in the reptile life cycle is most like the birth of a lion cub? [SEP] A. hatching from an egg [SEP] B. shedding the skin [SEP] C. hunting for food [SEP] D. finding a mate

Answer: A


What would be the best way to determine the role of squirrels in a forest ecosystem? [SEP] A. measure the length and mass of several squirrels [SEP] B. determine the genes that control squirrel traits [SEP] C. make field observations of squirrels in their natural habitat [SEP] D. read articles about the energy and nutrient requirements of squirrels

Answer: C


Which of the following systems breaks food into nutrients that can be used by the body? [SEP] A. circulatory [SEP] B. digestive [SEP] C. respiratory [SEP] D. reproductive

Answer: B


Barry collected four different rocks. The rock with the GREATEST mass will feel the ___. [SEP] A. heaviest [SEP] B. smoothest [SEP] C. sharpest [SEP] D. hardest

Answer: A


Which of the following is not an inherited trait of humans? [SEP] A. eye color [SEP] B. hair color [SEP] C. favorite food [SEP] D. height

Answer: C


When a person chews, saliva from the mouth mixes with starches in food. These starches begin to turn into sugars. Changing starches into sugars is best described as [SEP] A. a phase change. [SEP] B. a cellular change. [SEP] C. a physical change. [SEP] D. a chemical change.

Answer: D


Which of these renewable resources results in an increase in pollution when used to produce energy? [SEP] A. water [SEP] B. wind [SEP] C. biomass [SEP] D. geothermal

Answer: C


Granite is an igneous rock. Which of these describes what usually happens to granite after it is weathered, broken into small particles, buried deep underground, and compacted? [SEP] A. The granite becomes a new rock type. [SEP] B. The granite forms an active volcano. [SEP] C. The granite becomes part of a deep fault. [SEP] D. The granite forms a tall mountain.

Answer: A


The features below are all present on Earth. Which feature could also be found on the Moon? [SEP] A. crater [SEP] B. clouds [SEP] C. electrical storms [SEP] D. nitrogen based atmosphere

Answer: A


What is the highest temperature that water can reach in a pot on a stove? [SEP] A. 50°C [SEP] B. 90°C [SEP] C. 100°C [SEP] D. 212°C

Answer: C


In 2004 the Hubble space telescope captured images of distant star clusters, each containing about a million stars. These star clusters were most likely part of which structure? [SEP] A. a black hole [SEP] B. a galaxy [SEP] C. a nebula [SEP] D. a solar system

Answer: B


Where is most of the mass of the atom located? [SEP] A. in the protons [SEP] B. in the nucleus [SEP] C. in the neutrons [SEP] D. in the electrons

Answer: B


Which situation is the best example of ecological succession? [SEP] 1. An organism survives a difficult winter. [SEP] 2. The populations in an area remain the same. [SEP] 3. One species replaces another species in an ecosystem. [SEP] 4. Each of several species uses the same amount of resources.

Answer: 3


The BEST way to tell the DIFFERENCE between an oak and a maple tree is to compare the [SEP] A. height of both trees. [SEP] B. number of leaves on the trees. [SEP] C. size of the root systems of the trees. [SEP] D. shape of the leaves.

Answer: D


Which example describes a learned behavior in a dog? [SEP] A. smelling the air for odors [SEP] B. barking when disturbed [SEP] C. sitting on command [SEP] D. digging in soil

Answer: C


In a lab investigation, a student notes that two metal blocks have the same mass. Based on this observation, if the two blocks were put on opposite sides of a balance, they would best represent [SEP] A. balanced forces. [SEP] B. unbalanced forces. [SEP] C. equal and opposite reactions. [SEP] D. objects in motion.

Answer: A


A scientist was investigating why several fish caught from a local stream displayed similar mutations. He found that the water temperature of the stream was elevated since an industrial plant began discharging heated water into the stream. The scientist concluded that increased water temperature during the egg phase led to the mutation in the fish. According to this conclusion, the mutation was caused by [SEP] A. an autoimmune disorder. [SEP] B. a congenital defect. [SEP] C. an environmental condition. [SEP] D. an injury from a predator.

Answer: C


Solar radiation has a part in the water cycle by [SEP] A. affecting ocean tides. [SEP] B. helping in the absorption of groundwater. [SEP] C. determining the type of clouds formed. [SEP] D. changing water to a vapor.

Answer: D


A student sets a block at the top of a wooden ramp. The student pushes the block. As the block slides down the ramp, it slows down and then comes to a stop. What force causes the block to slow down? [SEP] A. the force of gravity [SEP] B. the force of friction [SEP] C. the force of magnetism [SEP] D. the force of the student's push

Answer: B


Which of these explains how a trench can form? [SEP] A. two oceanic plates converging [SEP] B. two continental plates converging [SEP] C. two continental plates diverging [SEP] D. two oceanic plates diverging

Answer: A


Pepsin is an enzyme that acts in the stomach for protein digestion. Which of these is most likely the main role of pepsin in this metabolic reaction? [SEP] A. to speed up the rate of reaction [SEP] B. to reduce the loss of energy as heat [SEP] C. to control the direction of the reaction [SEP] D. to protect the reaction from other chemicals

Answer: A


Sodium chloride, commonly called "table salt," is made up of sodium and chlorine that have been combined chemically. Which term best describes sodium chloride? [SEP] A. Acid [SEP] B. Atom [SEP] C. Element [SEP] D. Compound

Answer: D


Katia was listening to music on the radio. In order for the sound to be produced, the electrical energy must be converted into which type of energy? [SEP] A. thermal energy [SEP] B. magnetic energy [SEP] C. chemical energy [SEP] D. mechanical energy

Answer: D


Studies of snail fossils in Egypt indicate that areas of Egypt that are now desert were once thriving savannahs approximately 130,000 years ago. What does the presence of these fossils indicate about the area of Egypt that was thriving 130,000 years ago? [SEP] A. There was more humidity in the air. [SEP] B. There were fewer nutrients in the soil. [SEP] C. There was more snowfall in the region. [SEP] D. There was less solar radiation in the region.

Answer: A


Which statement identifies an energy source as renewable? [SEP] A. Oil, because it is found underground. [SEP] B. Wind, because it is always available. [SEP] C. Water, because it is becoming scarce. [SEP] D. Coal, because it was formed from plants.

Answer: B


A wet towel will dry when it is left in the Sun. Which process occurs to make this happen? [SEP] A. melting [SEP] B. boiling [SEP] C. condensation [SEP] D. evaporation

Answer: D


Otto pushed a toy car across a floor. The car traveled fast across the wood, but it slowed to a stop on the carpet. Which best explains what happened when the car reached the carpet? [SEP] A. Inertia decreased. [SEP] B. Gravity increased. [SEP] C. Friction increased. [SEP] D. Magnetism decreased.

Answer: C


Eye color is a physical trait. Which statement best explains why a child has a specific eye color? [SEP] A. Eye color is a learned trait. [SEP] B. Eye color is an inherited trait. [SEP] C. Eye color is a trait that changes over time. [SEP] D. Eye color is a trait that happens by chance.

Answer: B


Manganese has an atomic number of 25 and an atomic mass of 55 amu. How many particles are found in its nucleus? [SEP] A. 25 [SEP] B. 30 [SEP] C. 55 [SEP] D. 80

Answer: C


Students researched monkeys at a zoo. They recorded the monkeys' traits and behaviors. This investigation activity is best described as [SEP] A. controlling. [SEP] B. hypothesizing. [SEP] C. observing. [SEP] D. inferring.

Answer: C


The fur of an arctic fox turns from brown to white as winter approaches. This is an example of [SEP] A. camouflage [SEP] B. hibernation [SEP] C. migration [SEP] D. movement

Answer: A


Which is an example of a chemical change? [SEP] A. a rusting car fender [SEP] B. a spinning top [SEP] C. a spilled bucket of water [SEP] D. a melting popsicle

Answer: A


Which statement is describing climate? [SEP] A. It snowed 12 centimeters last night. [SEP] B. Last winter was colder than normal. [SEP] C. There is a thunderstorm watch for the local area. [SEP] D. The temperature will be between 32°C and 37°C all week.

Answer: B


Scientists have categorized trees based on whether they keep or lose their leaves each year. Another logical way to categorize trees is based on the [SEP] A. types of nutrients needed to grow. [SEP] B. amount of oxygen that is released into the air. [SEP] C. color of leaves that are produced. [SEP] D. type of fruit that is produced.

Answer: D


Which resource is considered nonrenewable? [SEP] 1. wind power [SEP] 2. solar energy [SEP] 3. moving water [SEP] 4. fossil fuels

Answer: 4


Sand and iron particles that are similar in size and color are mixed together in a beaker. What would be the best method of separating the particles? [SEP] 1. Use tweezers to separate them. [SEP] 2. Use a magnet to separate them. [SEP] 3. Add water to the mixture. [SEP] 4. Pour the mixture into a filter.

Answer: 2


Which habitat on Earth would probably 28 add the greatest amount of water to the water cycle through evaporation? [SEP] A. cold lake [SEP] B. desert sand [SEP] C. warm ocean [SEP] D. mountain rock

Answer: C


Which of these actions will change a sedimentary rock, such as limestone, into a metamorphic rock, such as marble? [SEP] A. pressure from a glacier [SEP] B. heat from magma [SEP] C. erosion from flowing water [SEP] D. radiation from the Sun

Answer: B


A loaf of bread is baking in a pan in a 350° F oven. What would cause a burn to a hand the quickest because of its low specific heat? [SEP] A. the metal pan [SEP] B. the air in the oven [SEP] C. the surface of the bread [SEP] D. the outside of the oven door

Answer: A


A student poured some sugar into a glass of water. After the water was stirred, no solid sugar remained in the glass. Which statement best describes what happened? [SEP] A. The sugar reacted with water to form elements. [SEP] B. The sugar reacted with water to form a mixture. [SEP] C. The sugar dissolved in water to form a solution. [SEP] D. The sugar dissolved in water to form compounds.

Answer: C


The magnitude of the gravitational force between two planets depends on the [SEP] A. speed the planets rotate. [SEP] B. other nearby planets. [SEP] C. volume of the planets. [SEP] D. distance between the planets.

Answer: D


The fossils that are found in the oldest layers of sedimentary rock were formed which types of organisms? [SEP] A. only organisms that lived in the sea [SEP] B. only organisms that lived on land [SEP] C. only organisms that lived in the air [SEP] D. organisms that lived on the land, in the sea and in the air

Answer: A


A snail's shell provides the snail with [SEP] A. food. [SEP] B. energy. [SEP] C. protection. [SEP] D. transportation.

Answer: C


Since green plants make their own food, they are called [SEP] A. predators [SEP] B. prey [SEP] C. decomposers [SEP] D. producers

Answer: D


Which metalloid is used in solar cells and computer chips? [SEP] A. silicon [SEP] B. silver [SEP] C. arsenic [SEP] D. antimony

Answer: A


The best evidence that two land areas were once connected is the discovery that both land masses [SEP] A. have the same climate. [SEP] B. are in the same stage of succession. [SEP] C. exist along the same line of longitude. [SEP] D. have similar types of rocks and fossils.

Answer: D


Rachel purchased a kit for making a skateboard ramp. Which of the following is most important to have for putting the ramp together? [SEP] A. a picture showing the colors of different ramp parts [SEP] B. a diagram showing some ways to use the ramp [SEP] C. a list of prices for other available kits [SEP] D. a set of instructions for the kit materials

Answer: D


What is the smallest particle of the element gold (Au) that can still be classified as gold? [SEP] A. atom [SEP] B. molecule [SEP] C. neutron [SEP] D. proton

Answer: A


Which best describes the function of the small intestine? [SEP] A. oxygenation of tissue [SEP] B. excretion of toxic wastes [SEP] C. transportation of blood cells [SEP] D. digestion and absorption of food

Answer: D


A forest is flooded when a natural dam breaks, leaving the forest floor under two meters of water. Which animal is most affected by the flooding? [SEP] A. a crow [SEP] B. a rabbit [SEP] C. a squirrel [SEP] D. a butterfly

Answer: B


Which object will most likely be attracted to a magnet? [SEP] A. wooden block [SEP] B. plastic cup [SEP] C. metal nail [SEP] D. glass bead

Answer: C


At what temperature does pure water boil? [SEP] A. 0°C [SEP] B. 32°C [SEP] C. 100°C [SEP] D. 212°C

Answer: C


Animals that eat both plant matter and meat are referred to as [SEP] A. decomposers. [SEP] B. scavengers. [SEP] C. herbivores. [SEP] D. omnivores.

Answer: D


Corals are animals that live in tropical oceans. Fossils of corals are found in Ohio. What does the presence of coral fossils suggest about how the environment of Ohio has changed over time? [SEP] A. Ohio was once covered by warm seas. [SEP] B. A large glacier once passed over Ohio. [SEP] C. The average rainfall in Ohio is now much more than it once was. [SEP] D. The average temperature in Ohio is now much warmer than it.

Answer: A


Alex looked at an electric toothbrush that had a plug with three metal prongs. Why are these prongs made out of metal? [SEP] A. Metal doesn't get hot and melt when you plug it into the outlet. [SEP] B. Metal is strong and is less likely to break when you plug it into the outlet. [SEP] C. Metal is an insulator and prevents shocks when you plug it into the outlet. [SEP] D. Metal is a conductor and completes a circuit when you plug it into the outlet.

Answer: D


Where is an igneous rock such as pumice most likely formed? [SEP] A. in a desert [SEP] B. in a creek bed [SEP] C. near a volcano [SEP] D. under a glacier

Answer: C


Why are many telescopes used far from cities? [SEP] A. The light from the cities makes it hard to see stars. [SEP] B. The noise from the cities vibrates the telescopes. [SEP] C. The power lines from the cities produce interference waves. [SEP] D. The pollution from the cities reflects starlight.

Answer: A


Where do plants get energy from to make food? [SEP] A. air [SEP] B. soil [SEP] C. water [SEP] D. sunlight

Answer: D


Which of the following is most likely to cause water to change from one state of matter to another state of matter? [SEP] A. increased precipitation [SEP] B. the weathering of rocks [SEP] C. a decrease in wind speed [SEP] D. a change in air temperature

Answer: D


When a soccer player kicks a ball, which two systems work directly with the muscular system? [SEP] A. immune and excretory [SEP] B. digestive and respiratory [SEP] C. nervous and skeletal [SEP] D. circulatory and integumentary

Answer: C


Which two activities are carried out by all species of living things? [SEP] A. make food and eliminate waste [SEP] B. hibernate and take in nutrients [SEP] C. grow and reproduce [SEP] D. migrate and seek shelter

Answer: C


Which best explains why a person infected with bacteria may have a fever? [SEP] A. The body is responding to fight off the bacteria. [SEP] B. The body is releasing waste material from the bacteria. [SEP] C. The body is producing hormones to kill the infection. [SEP] D. The body is reducing the blood supply to the infection site.

Answer: A


Most of the concentration of which gas results from the activity of producer organisms? [SEP] A. nitrogen [SEP] B. oxygen [SEP] C. water vapor [SEP] D. carbon dioxide

Answer: B


What is determined by the speed that Earth rotates on its axis? [SEP] A. the length of a day [SEP] B. the energy that reaches a location [SEP] C. the temperature of water in the ocean [SEP] D. the number of seasons in a year

Answer: A


The spectrum of visible light can be seen in a rainbow because white light is [SEP] A. reflected and transmitted. [SEP] B. refracted and dispersed. [SEP] C. absorbed and diffracted. [SEP] D. produced and emitted.

Answer: B


Kate sees a full moon. About how much time will go by before the next full moon? [SEP] A. one week [SEP] B. two weeks [SEP] C. one month [SEP] D. one year

Answer: C


The sediments found in a riverbed are most likely a result of which action on nearby rock? [SEP] A. heat [SEP] B. faulting [SEP] C. pressure [SEP] D. weathering

Answer: D


The most common way humans contribute to the extinction of organisms is by [SEP] A. rotation of crops. [SEP] B. use of fertilizers. [SEP] C. destruction of habitat. [SEP] D. introduction of competing species.

Answer: C


Which of the following is an example of matter changing state? [SEP] A. heating a pan of water until the water is all gone [SEP] B. putting a soft-drink can in the refrigerator to cool it [SEP] C. heating soup on the stove until it is hot to your tongue [SEP] D. transferring sugar into a storage container

Answer: A


A car runs out of fuel while traveling on a level road and eventually comes to a stop. Which of the following best explains why the car stops? [SEP] A. Some of the energy of the car was lost to friction. [SEP] B. Some of the energy of the car was destroyed. [SEP] C. The amount of kinetic energy increased. [SEP] D. The amount of useful energy increased.

Answer: A


Which of the following best represents one particular stage in a life cycle? [SEP] A. a fish swimming [SEP] B. a seed sprouting [SEP] C. a leaf growing [SEP] D. a dog eating

Answer: B


Which process of the water cycle transports water from plants to clouds? [SEP] A. precipitation [SEP] B. transpiration [SEP] C. condensation [SEP] D. sublimation

Answer: B


Sulfur scrubbers are devices installed in coal-fired power plants. Sulfur scrubbers reduce the emission of sulfur dioxide. What environmental problem are sulfur scrubbers most likely trying to address? [SEP] A. ozone [SEP] B. erosion [SEP] C. acid rain [SEP] D. nutrient runoff

Answer: C


Which system of the human body provides protection to most of the major organs? [SEP] A. skeletal system [SEP] B. circulatory system [SEP] C. respiratory system [SEP] D. muscular system

Answer: A


A scientist developed a model that described the actions of DNA in the cell nuclei, which helped explain how traits were inherited. Which scientist helped develop this model? [SEP] A. Bohr [SEP] B. Hooke [SEP] C. Mendel [SEP] D. Watson

Answer: D


Which item is designed to change electrical energy into heat energy? [SEP] A. Alarm clock [SEP] B. Hand dryer [SEP] C. Fan [SEP] D. Telephone

Answer: B


Which characteristic is the best example of an inherited trait? [SEP] A. eye color [SEP] B. an infection [SEP] C. knowledge of soccer [SEP] D. length of hair

Answer: A


Which correctly arranges three scientific terms-theory, law, and hypothesis-from least to most accepted or tested? [SEP] A. theory, hypothesis, law [SEP] B. hypothesis, law, theory [SEP] C. theory, law, hypothesis [SEP] D. hypothesis, theory, law

Answer: D


The metal lid on a glass jar is hard to open, so it is held under warm, running water. What causes the jar to open easily after it was held under the water? [SEP] A. The water increased the pressure under the lid. [SEP] B. The jar shrunk with the warm water. [SEP] C. The water acted as a lubricant between the glass and the metal. [SEP] D. The metal lid expanded under warm water.

Answer: D


A dung beetle is an insect that gathers waste from animals, rolls it into a compact ball, lays eggs in it, and buries it in the soil. This gives the eggs a warm, safe place to hatch and provides a food source for the developing larvae. Which impact does the dung beetle most likely have on its ecosystem? [SEP] A. It helps return nutrients to the soil. [SEP] B. It makes animal waste harder to degrade. [SEP] C. It causes an unhealthy accumulation of animal waste. [SEP] D. It depletes nutrients from the soil to benefit its young.

Answer: A


After playing outside on a cold day, Jaime went inside to wash his hands. Although the water was normal temperature, he noticed that it felt warmer than usual. What would explain this phenomenon? [SEP] A. His body had more kinetic energy than the water. [SEP] B. Heat flowed from a cooler substance to a warmer substance. [SEP] C. The water from the faucet had a higher temperature than his skin. [SEP] D. The thermal energy in the room was higher than the thermal energy outside.

Answer: C


What is the relationship between tissues and organs? [SEP] A. Organs are made from one type of tissue. [SEP] B. Tissues are made from one type of organ. [SEP] C. Tissues are made from different types of organs. [SEP] D. Organs are made from different types of tissues.

Answer: D


What will be the most likely result for some species of animals with the continued burning of rain forests in Africa? [SEP] A. soil erosion [SEP] B. destruction of their habitats [SEP] C. improved nutrients in the soil [SEP] D. more grasses as a result of burning

Answer: B


Earthworms live underground in the soil. As they move through the soil, they create tunnels. The tunnels help improve the soil. Plants grow better in soil that has earthworms. Which statement explains how earthworm tunnels help plants? [SEP] A. Earthworm tunnels bring heat into the soil that warms plant roots. [SEP] B. Earthworm tunnels loosen the soil so plant roots can easily grow [SEP] C. Earthworm tunnels allow sunlight to reach the plant roots in the soil. [SEP] D. Earthworm tunnels create places where insects can hide and protect plant roots.

Answer: B


Which tools are best used to determine the speed of a turtle as it walks along a path? [SEP] A. Meter stick and graduated cylinder [SEP] B. Stopwatch and meter stick [SEP] C. Balance and metric ruler [SEP] D. Balance and stopwatch

Answer: B


Which tool would a student use to measure wind speed? [SEP] A. compass [SEP] B. barometer [SEP] C. anemometer [SEP] D. weather vane

Answer: C


Why would explorers use a compass when traveling to unknown lands? [SEP] A. to locate a direction to travel [SEP] B. to measure the quality of drinking water [SEP] C. to protect themselves from wild animals [SEP] D. to determine levels of humanity in tropical areas

Answer: A


Which measurement tool is used to find the volume of a small piece of granite? [SEP] A. thermometer [SEP] B. metric ruler [SEP] C. graduated cylinder [SEP] D. triple beam balance

Answer: C


What form of energy causes an ice cube to melt? [SEP] A. mechanical [SEP] B. magnetic [SEP] C. sound [SEP] D. heat

Answer: D


Which characteristic is most beneficial for an animal living on a snowy mountain? [SEP] A. thick fur [SEP] B. dark spots [SEP] C. moist skin [SEP] D. webbed feet

Answer: A


Which of the following is a property of CO2 gas? [SEP] A. It feels like a rock. [SEP] B. It smells like a lemon. [SEP] C. It is colorless. [SEP] D. It is hard.

Answer: C


Which rapid changes can be caused by storms? [SEP] A. landslides and flooding [SEP] B. flooding and earthquakes [SEP] C. landslides and volcanoes [SEP] D. volcanoes and earthquakes

Answer: A


Which is an example of a chemical reaction? [SEP] A. nails rusting [SEP] B. glass melting [SEP] C. sugar dissolving [SEP] D. alcohol vaporizing

Answer: A


Which unit of measurement can be used to describe the length of a desk? [SEP] A. centimeters [SEP] B. grams [SEP] C. liters [SEP] D. degrees Celsius

Answer: A


The incompleteness of the fossil record results primarily from which phenomenon? [SEP] A. the frequency and irregular timing of organism speciations [SEP] B. the metamorphosis of most sedimentary rock by heat and pressure [SEP] C. the geologically rapid cycling of crust material back into the mantle [SEP] D. the rarity with which organic remains are exposed to fossil-forming conditions

Answer: D


A student conducts an investigation. In order to make a valid conclusion, she must [SEP] A. have a testable hypothesis. [SEP] B. place the data in a graph. [SEP] C. use the best technology. [SEP] D. test multiple variables.

Answer: A


The bonding of oxygen to red blood cells is important to the body because it enables the body to [SEP] A. absorb nutrients from food. [SEP] B. make energy from light. [SEP] C. maintain a constant temperature. [SEP] D. perform aerobic respiration in cells.

Answer: D


Some of Earth's water is stored underground in porous rock formations known as aquifers. Which of these could use up groundwater in aquifers? [SEP] A. abundant rain in the Ozarks [SEP] B. excessive pumping from wells [SEP] C. dams on the lower Mississippi [SEP] D. community water conservation

Answer: B


All plants and animals have mechanisms that [SEP] 1. transport nutrients [SEP] 2. perform photosynthesis [SEP] 3. regulate nerves [SEP] 4. produce flowers

Answer: 1


Which is the best tool to measure the angles of a triangular object? [SEP] A. a meter stick [SEP] B. a compass [SEP] C. a protractor [SEP] D. a spring scale

Answer: C


All living organisms are dependent on plants because plants [SEP] 1. produce carbon dioxide [SEP] 2. remove oxygen from the air [SEP] 3. are producers [SEP] 4. are consumers

Answer: 3


Compared to other stars in our galaxy, which is the best description of our Sun? [SEP] A. larger size, higher temperature [SEP] B. smaller size, higher temperature [SEP] C. larger size, average temperature [SEP] D. average size, average temperature

Answer: D


While studying the relationship between number of trees and amount of atmospheric oxygen, which of the following would be most important to take into account? [SEP] A. contributions to atmospheric oxygen from sources other than trees [SEP] B. the ways in which industrialized nations use trees [SEP] C. the root area of trees [SEP] D. the bark mass of trees

Answer: A


A student is working on a science project display for the school science fair. To best communicate why her conclusions are valid, what should be included on the display? [SEP] A. a list of authoritative sources that supports her conclusion [SEP] B. instructions for viewers to repeat her procedures [SEP] C. clearly illustrated diagrams of the scientific principles involved [SEP] D. a complete write-up of her experimental method and data collected

Answer: D


Which of the following describes asexual reproduction? [SEP] A. the process of meiosis in a fruit fly [SEP] B. fertilization of a chicken egg [SEP] C. binary fission in an amoeba [SEP] D. the process of embryo development in a mouse

Answer: C


Which scientist is known for his genetics experiments with pea plants? [SEP] A. Charles Darwin [SEP] B. Gregor Mendel [SEP] C. Carolus Linnaeus [SEP] D. Robert Hooke

Answer: B


On a cold, cloudy day, the local weather forecaster predicts that a high-pressure system will be moving into the area in the next 24 hours. Which weather conditions will this system most likely bring to the area? [SEP] A. stormy [SEP] B. sunny [SEP] C. snowy [SEP] D. hot

Answer: B


What determines if twins are identical? [SEP] A. their genes [SEP] B. their behavior [SEP] C. their environment [SEP] D. their personalities

Answer: A


Which of these processes is a conversion made by solar panels? [SEP] A. mechanical energy to nuclear energy [SEP] B. thermal energy to chemical energy [SEP] C. kinetic energy to potential energy [SEP] D. radiant energy to electrical energy

Answer: D


In fruit flies, red eyes are dominant over sepia eyes. A male with red eyes is crossed with a female with sepia eyes producing first generation offspring that all had sepia eyes. What does this indicate about the flies that were crossed? [SEP] A. Both parents are homozygous for the trait. [SEP] B. Both parents are heterozygous for the trait. [SEP] C. The male is heterozygous and the female is homozygous recessive for the trait. [SEP] D. The male is homozygous dominant and the female is heterozygous for the trait.

Answer: C


Acid rain caused by industrial pollution greatly reduces the number of trees in a forested region that is home to a particular species of bird. How might this decrease in the number of trees most likely affect this bird population? [SEP] A. The population will adapt to ground dwelling. [SEP] B. The population will decrease due to lack of resources. [SEP] C. The population will stabilize when it moves to another region. [SEP] D. The population will increase as predators move out of the region.

Answer: B


Which of these is the main function of a cell wall? [SEP] A. To make food [SEP] B. To store water [SEP] C. To provide support [SEP] D. To make the plant green

Answer: C


Which sentence about the periodic table of elements is true? [SEP] A. All elements in period 2 are metals. [SEP] B. All elements in group 18 are metals. [SEP] C. Metals are found on the left side of the periodic table. [SEP] D. Metals are found on the right side of the periodic table.

Answer: C


Salt concentration, water temperature, plankton, and the whale shark might all be used in a description of an ocean [SEP] A. climate. [SEP] B. food web. [SEP] C. ecosystem. [SEP] D. population.

Answer: C


Rocks can be classified many different ways, including as igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. This classification is based on the [SEP] A. origin of the rocks. [SEP] B. use of the rocks. [SEP] C. size of the rocks. [SEP] D. hardness of the rocks.

Answer: A


A mountain range has hills around its edges. How are the mountains and hills alike? [SEP] A. Both have grass at the top. [SEP] B. Both are at least 1000 meters tall. [SEP] C. Both have liquid rock at their centers. [SEP] D. Both are taller than the land around them.

Answer: D


Human muscle cells need nutrients and oxygen during exercise. The human body is able to meet the needs of the muscle cells during exercise by increasing [SEP] A. digestion. [SEP] B. excretion. [SEP] C. secretion. [SEP] D. circulation.

Answer: D


Phyllis investigated what happened when she added some different substances to water. Which substance can combine with water to form a solution? [SEP] A. oil [SEP] B. rocks [SEP] C. soil [SEP] D. sugar

Answer: D


Fossil fuels are considered a nonrenewable resource because they [SEP] A. have turned into solid rock. [SEP] B. take a long period of time to form. [SEP] C. are expensive to remove from rock. [SEP] D. are located deep within the Earth's crust.

Answer: B


A student is growing some plants for an experiment. She notices small white spots on the leaves. Which tool should she use to get a better look at the spots? [SEP] A. thermometer [SEP] B. hand lens [SEP] C. graduated cylinder [SEP] D. balance

Answer: B


Why are seals able to live off the coast of Antarctica while frogs, snakes, and panthers are not? [SEP] A. Seals can swim. [SEP] B. Seals are predators. [SEP] C. Seals have fur and blubber. [SEP] D. Seals are warm-blooded animals.

Answer: C


How are the functions of a carbohydrate and a lipid similar? [SEP] A. Both are a source of energy. [SEP] B. Both are replicated during meiosis. [SEP] C. Both lower the activation energy of reactions. [SEP] D. Both dissolve nutrients in the digestive system.

Answer: A


Traveling in opposite directions, buses A and B are passing each other at the relative speed of 25 km/h, while a passenger on bus A walks toward the back of the bus at the speed of 5 km/h. What is the velocity of the passenger on bus A relative to bus B? [SEP] A. 20 km/h in the direction of bus A [SEP] B. 20 km/h in the direction of bus B [SEP] C. 30 km/h in the direction of bus A [SEP] D. 30 km/h in the direction of bus B

Answer: A


A student drops a ball. Which force causes the ball to fall to the ground? [SEP] A. electricity [SEP] B. friction [SEP] C. gravity [SEP] D. magnetism

Answer: C


Hydrogen is located on the left side of the periodic table in the same column as the alkali metals, but it has characteristics of a nonmetal. Which of the following is a physical property of hydrogen? [SEP] A. Hydrogen can bond to itself. [SEP] B. Hydrogen makes positive ions. [SEP] C. Hydrogen is a gas at room temperature. [SEP] D. Hydrogen is combustible.

Answer: C


In an experiment, a scientist named Pavlov rang a bell before he fed his dogs, which made the dogs drool. Soon the dogs would drool when they heard the bell, even if they did not receive any food. What type of response did the dogs exhibit? [SEP] A. an instinct [SEP] B. an inherited trait [SEP] C. a learned behavior [SEP] D. a conscious behavior

Answer: C


Which invention will best help people travel quickly to far away places? [SEP] A. car [SEP] B. boat [SEP] C. airplane [SEP] D. skateboard

Answer: C


What is an environmental threat posed by oil and gas acquisition and transport that is not posed by the acquisition and transport of the energy resources uranium, and wood? [SEP] A. habitat change [SEP] B. vehicle pollution [SEP] C. pipeline leaks [SEP] D. soil compaction and loss

Answer: C


Some plant species are more tolerant of acidic soil than others. The tolerant species are favored in areas affected by which consequence of human activity? [SEP] A. mixing of pollutants with rain [SEP] B. erosion of topsoil by clearcutting [SEP] C. runoff of fertilizer used in farming [SEP] D. thinning of the atmospheric ozone layer

Answer: A


Which resource has the most potential for production of renewable electric energy? [SEP] A. coal [SEP] B. oil [SEP] C. natural gas [SEP] D. geothermal

Answer: D


A layer of solid brittle rock comprises the outer 100 kilometers of Earth. This layer, which contains both the crust and the upper mantle, is called the [SEP] A. core. [SEP] B. sediment. [SEP] C. lithosphere. [SEP] D. hemisphere.

Answer: C


During its lifetime, which object is known to change in brightness, color, and temperature? [SEP] A. star [SEP] B. moon [SEP] C. asteroid [SEP] D. planet

Answer: A


What causes a free falling object to accelerate? [SEP] A. inertia [SEP] B. gravity [SEP] C. initial speed [SEP] D. initial direction

Answer: B


What is the main source of energy that drives all weather patterns? [SEP] A. the Sun [SEP] B. oceans [SEP] C. the Moon [SEP] D. mountains

Answer: A


What is one factor that contributes to seasons occurring in New York State? [SEP] 1. the revolution of the Moon around Earth [SEP] 2. the tilt of Earth on its axis [SEP] 3. the rising and falling of ocean tides [SEP] 4. the distance of Earth from the Sun

Answer: 2


Which cell part is correctly paired with its function? [SEP] A. nucleus-controls cell activities [SEP] B. chloroplast-outside boundary of plant cells [SEP] C. cell wall-controls what goes in and out of cells [SEP] D. cell membrane-where photosynthesis takes place

Answer: A


A meeting of scientists, called a symposium, occurs every year to share recent research about the atmosphere of Earth. This symposium mainly serves which purpose in science? [SEP] A. to test research methods used by other scientists [SEP] B. to develop questions about space research [SEP] C. to discuss the meaning of new discoveries [SEP] D. to explain gas properties to the general public

Answer: C


A wind turbine primarily uses which type of energy? [SEP] A. nuclear [SEP] B. thermal [SEP] C. chemical [SEP] D. mechanical

Answer: D


A rubber band will make a sound when it is [SEP] A. vibrated. [SEP] B. stretched. [SEP] C. cut into pieces. [SEP] D. shot across a room.

Answer: A


What would a warm air mass over the ocean most likely cause? [SEP] A. earthquake [SEP] B. snowfall [SEP] C. tsunami [SEP] D. rainfall

Answer: D


The Moon is visible to observers on Earth because of [SEP] 1. reflected sunlight [SEP] 2. absorbed light from Earth's atmosphere [SEP] 3. gases in the Moon's interior [SEP] 4. volcanic eruptions on the Moon's surface

Answer: 1


Which illness is always caused by an infection? [SEP] A. a heart attack [SEP] B. a broken bone [SEP] C. influenza [SEP] D. cancer

Answer: C


Jonny climbed an apple tree. How are Jonny and the apple tree similar to each other? [SEP] A. Both are made of cells. [SEP] B. Both take in carbon dioxide. [SEP] C. Both get nutrients directly from soil. [SEP] D. Both get energy from other organisms.

Answer: A


What are the names of the products in the chemical equation shown below? HCl + NaHCO_{3} -> NaCl + CO_{2} + H_{2}O [SEP] A. hydrochloric acid and sodium carbonate [SEP] B. sodium chloride, carbon dioxide, and water [SEP] C. hydrogen chloride and sodium bicarbonate [SEP] D. sodium chloride, carbon monoxide, and dihydrogen oxide

Answer: B


A ball is tossed up in the air and it comes back down. The ball comes back down because of [SEP] A. gravity [SEP] B. friction [SEP] C. erosion [SEP] D. magnetism

Answer: A


Timber companies can best manage the number of trees in forests by [SEP] A. converting deforested areas into malls. [SEP] B. planting trees to replace what they cut down. [SEP] C. adding pesticides to the soil around the trees. [SEP] D. removing the tree stumps when trees are cut down.

Answer: B


The formation of the Himalayan Mountains is one example of land features caused by compressive forces. Which action most likely led to the formation of these mountains? [SEP] A. seafloor spreading [SEP] B. strike-slip faulting [SEP] C. colliding plates [SEP] D. hot spots

Answer: C


What abiotic factor would most likely signal a population of birds that it is time to migrate from north to south? [SEP] A. decrease in sunlight [SEP] B. change in precipitation [SEP] C. increase in food source [SEP] D. change in wind direction

Answer: A


A greenhouse is used as a model of the atmosphere. Which of the following cannot be demonstrated by the model? [SEP] A. energy used to evaporate water [SEP] B. changes in greenhouse gases [SEP] C. light energy trapped as heat energy [SEP] D. energy that builds up in the greenhouse air

Answer: B


A light bulb manufacturer claims its light bulb is "twice as bright" per unit of electrical energy consumed as the leading light bulb. If this claim is correct, what factor must be accurately compared between the two bulbs? [SEP] A. how much each bulb weighs [SEP] B. how long each bulb lasts [SEP] C. how much heat each bulb releases [SEP] D. how much metal each bulb contains

Answer: C


In the 17th century, Gregor Mendel crossed pea plants with different traits and observed the results in their offspring. To which of these did Mendel contribute most directly with his work? [SEP] A. medicine [SEP] B. agriculture [SEP] C. science of force and motion [SEP] D. science of heredity and variation

Answer: D


How does the appearance of a constellation change during the night? [SEP] A. Its shape appears to become longer. [SEP] B. Its position appears to shift relative to the horizon. [SEP] C. Its brightest stars begin to appear orange. [SEP] D. Its distance to the North Star decreases.

Answer: B


The freezing and thawing action of water affects a rock by [SEP] A. transforming the rock into igneous rock. [SEP] B. chemically changing the rock. [SEP] C. gradually breaking down the rock into smaller pieces. [SEP] D. leaving behind sedimentary particles from evaporated solutions.

Answer: C


Delilah put a container of water in the freezer and left it there overnight. The next morning she saw that the water in the container had changed to ice. Which of the following statements best explains why the water changed to ice? [SEP] A. The water gained energy. [SEP] B. The water absorbed light. [SEP] C. Mass was released from the water. [SEP] D. Heat was taken away from the water.

Answer: D


Earth's rotation (turning on its axis) causes [SEP] A. the seasons to change. [SEP] B. the Moon to appear as different shapes. [SEP] C. day and night. [SEP] D. solar eclipses.

Answer: C


Which of the following climates has cold winters and hot summers? [SEP] A. polar [SEP] B. subtropical [SEP] C. temperate [SEP] D. tropical

Answer: C


What form of energy is being used when a person pushes a wooden block across the floor? [SEP] A. mechanical [SEP] B. magnetic [SEP] C. sound [SEP] D. electrical

Answer: A


Which action is an example of good water management? [SEP] A. letting faucets drip [SEP] B. watering the grass every day [SEP] C. turning off the faucet when brushing teeth [SEP] D. running the dishwasher when it is not full

Answer: C


An Earth year is the length of time it takes for [SEP] A. Earth to rotate once on its axis [SEP] B. the Moon to revolve once around Earth [SEP] C. the Sun to revolve once around Earth [SEP] D. Earth to revolve once around the Sun

Answer: D


Which land form results when carbonic acid in groundwater seeps through rock and dissolves limestone? [SEP] A. valleys [SEP] B. ravines [SEP] C. caverns [SEP] D. mountains

Answer: C


Which part of a DNA molecule represents encoded information? [SEP] A. phosphate [SEP] B. sugar [SEP] C. guanine [SEP] D. hydrogen bond

Answer: C


Early scientists most likely saw a discharge of electricity for the first time when observing a [SEP] A. waterfall [SEP] B. rainbow [SEP] C. lightning storm [SEP] D. volcano erupting

Answer: C


In humans, the amount of sugar in blood is controlled by the release of a hormone called insulin. This process is an example of [SEP] 1. depletion [SEP] 2. digestion [SEP] 3. regulation [SEP] 4. excretion

Answer: 3


It is necessary to add a day to the calendar every four years because [SEP] A. the axis of Earth is tilted. [SEP] B. the gravitational pull of the Sun affects Earth's revolution. [SEP] C. the revolution of Earth is not exactly 365 days. [SEP] D. the Moon crosses the orbit of the Sun every 28 days.

Answer: C


Which tool would be best to measure the length of a butterfly? [SEP] A. triple beam balance [SEP] B. graduated cylinder [SEP] C. metric ruler [SEP] D. thermometer

Answer: C


Scientists invented a liquid that removes grease and keeps the skin soft. How could this discovery most likely be used? [SEP] A. to improve dish soap [SEP] B. to cure a disease [SEP] C. to make clothes [SEP] D. to grow plants

Answer: A


The first step in the water cycle is evaporation. What gives water the energy to evaporate? [SEP] A. Sun [SEP] B. wind [SEP] C. clouds [SEP] D. waves

Answer: A


On a warm sunny afternoon, ocean water splashed onto a rock. A short time later, the rock was dry. Which statement best explains what happened to the water on the rock? [SEP] A. Heat caused the water to become a gas. [SEP] B. Heat melted the water and it disappeared. [SEP] C. Salt caused the water to become a gas. [SEP] D. Salt melted the water and it disappeared.

Answer: A


Which is a nonrenewable natural resource that is used to make electrical energy? [SEP] A. coal [SEP] B. wind [SEP] C. water [SEP] D. thermal

Answer: A


Which process initiates the passage of half of a parent's DNA to offspring? [SEP] A. meiosis [SEP] B. mitosis [SEP] C. fertilization [SEP] D. differentiation

Answer: A


Which resource provides the minerals plants need to grow? [SEP] A. sunlight [SEP] B. water [SEP] C. soil [SEP] D. air

Answer: C


At what time on a sunny day will the shadow of the school's flagpole be the shortest? [SEP] A. sunrise [SEP] B. noon [SEP] C. mid-afternoon [SEP] D. sunset

Answer: B


Animals get energy for growth and repair from [SEP] A. soil [SEP] B. food [SEP] C. water [SEP] D. air

Answer: B


A flower produces seeds that fall to the ground and grow into new plants that produce more flowers. The seeds begin to grow by the process of [SEP] A. fertilization. [SEP] B. germination. [SEP] C. maturation. [SEP] D. pollination.

Answer: B


A rock has most likely traveled a long distance from its place of origin if it is [SEP] A. very small. [SEP] B. rounded and smooth. [SEP] C. partially faded. [SEP] D. rough and dense.

Answer: B


Which of the following best explains why the tectonic plates of Earth move? [SEP] A. conduction from solar heating [SEP] B. heat convection from the mantle [SEP] C. global winds [SEP] D. ocean currents

Answer: B


Over a long period of time, a rocky volcanic island that previously did not support any form of life got transformed into a dense forested region. Which of these species is most likely to have been the pioneer species that initiated this transformation? [SEP] A. ferns [SEP] B. grasses [SEP] C. lichens [SEP] D. mushrooms

Answer: C


The formation of coal deposits occurred over millions of years. Which feature was most responsible for these deposits? [SEP] A. barren deserts [SEP] B. active volcanoes [SEP] C. mountains covered in trees [SEP] D. swamps with dense vegetation

Answer: D


A teacher is performing a demonstration about static electricity for his class by rubbing a balloon against a wool sweater. The balloon sticks to the wool sweater. Which particles are exchanged during the demonstration? [SEP] A. atoms [SEP] B. protons [SEP] C. neutrons [SEP] D. electrons

Answer: D


After a race, a newspaper lists the names of the five fastest runners. Another method that could be used to identify the five fastest runners is to make a chart that shows the [SEP] A. average of the speeds of the runners. [SEP] B. total distance for each runner. [SEP] C. time it took each runner to run the race. [SEP] D. percentage of the runners who finished the race.

Answer: C


A scientist plans to investigate the nervous system of sea slugs. What should the scientist do first? [SEP] A. Develop a theory about sea slugs that can be tested. [SEP] B. Go to the ocean to observe the behavior of sea slugs. [SEP] C. Obtain several sea slugs and conduct experiments with them. [SEP] D. Review the research other scientists have done on sea slugs.

Answer: D


Natural selection is a mechanism that acts on individuals within a population. Which is a result of the process of natural selection? [SEP] A. The reproductive rate of the population decreases. [SEP] B. Genetic similarity within the population increases. [SEP] C. Organisms are better adapted to their environment. [SEP] D. Adverse changes to the environment become more frequent.

Answer: C


What chemical symbol represents the element iron? [SEP] A. Fe [SEP] B. I [SEP] C. Ir [SEP] D. Pb

Answer: A


A push or a pull on an object is an example of [SEP] A. force. [SEP] B. weight. [SEP] C. energy. [SEP] D. work.

Answer: A


Which statement is a description of weather? [SEP] A. Summers in Tucson are hot and dry. [SEP] B. Winters in Flagstaff are cold and snowy. [SEP] C. The temperature is 55° F in Winslow today. [SEP] D. The Sun will set in Yuma today at 6:45 p.m.

Answer: C


Clouds and precipitation moved across western Massachusetts one evening. The temperature changed from 41°F to 28°F. Which of the following changes in precipitation most likely occurred on this evening? [SEP] A. sleet changing to hail [SEP] B. snow changing to rain [SEP] C. rain changing to sleet [SEP] D. snow changing to hail

Answer: C


The human body has an average, normal temperature of about 98.6ºF. To keep the core body temperature from becoming too high, the brain sends a signal to the body to [SEP] A. decrease sugar levels in the blood. [SEP] B. increase sugar levels in the blood. [SEP] C. decrease blood flow to the skin. [SEP] D. increase blood flow to the skin.

Answer: D


Why is water considered to be a renewable resource? [SEP] A. Water can be used over again. [SEP] B. Water can be found all over Earth. [SEP] C. Water can dissolve other substances. [SEP] D. Water is needed by organisms to stay alive.

Answer: A


What is the most prominent land feature formed by the convergence of the Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates? [SEP] A. China [SEP] B. Australia [SEP] C. Ural Mountains [SEP] D. Himalaya Mountains

Answer: D


To which group does an animal belong if it lays eggs and has scales and gills? [SEP] A. amphibian [SEP] B. bird [SEP] C. fish [SEP] D. reptile

Answer: C


What causes nighttime and daytime on Earth? [SEP] A. the Sun rotating on its axis [SEP] B. Earth rotating on its axis [SEP] C. Earth revolving around the Sun [SEP] D. the Moon revolving around Earth

Answer: B


Which area is coldest? [SEP] A. rainforest [SEP] B. tundra [SEP] C. grassland [SEP] D. reef

Answer: B


Which scientist is credited with using a telescope in the seventeenth century to discover the moons of Jupiter? [SEP] A. Galileo [SEP] B. Kepler [SEP] C. Einstein [SEP] D. Newton

Answer: A


Which of these is a freshwater reservoir? [SEP] A. Gulf of Mexico [SEP] B. Pacific Ocean [SEP] C. Atlantic tidal basin [SEP] D. Antarctic polar ice

Answer: D


In eukaryotic organisms, microtubules give cells structure, and microfilaments help the cell contract and move. Together, they combine to perform functions similar to what two human body systems? [SEP] A. the endocrine and skeletal systems [SEP] B. the circulatory and respiratory systems [SEP] C. the skeletal and muscular systems [SEP] D. the integumentary and excretory system

Answer: C


Which kind of rock is produced by deposition and cementation? [SEP] A. marble, a metamorphic rock [SEP] B. sandstone, a sedimentary rock [SEP] C. granite, an intrusive igneous rock [SEP] D. pumice, an extrusive igneous rock

Answer: B


Which characteristic is inherited rather than learned? [SEP] A. telling a story [SEP] B. saluting the flag [SEP] C. having blue eyes [SEP] D. riding a bicycle

Answer: C


Which biological process in mammals occurs largely due to cell division? [SEP] A. healing [SEP] B. respiration [SEP] C. decomposition [SEP] D. photosynthesis

Answer: A


Frame construction predominates in the New England area due to the abundance of [SEP] A. clay. [SEP] B. masonry. [SEP] C. wood. [SEP] D. steel.

Answer: C


Which of these properties of water helps moderate the weather of coastal areas? [SEP] A. neutral pH [SEP] B. high specific heat [SEP] C. dissolves many substances [SEP] D. floats as a solid

Answer: B


Birds eat non-camouflaged moths at a higher rate than they eat camouflaged moths. In which situation would birds eat the moths at the slowest rate? [SEP] A. dark moths in any environment [SEP] B. light moths in any environment [SEP] C. dark moths in a light environment [SEP] D. light moths in a light environment

Answer: D


During which process does a caterpillar become a butterfly? [SEP] 1. fertilization [SEP] 2. metamorphosis [SEP] 3. asexual reproduction [SEP] 4. biological adaptation

Answer: 2


Gregor Mendel cross-pollinated red and white snapdragon flowers. What information indicates that incomplete dominance was achieved? [SEP] A. The offspring had heterozygous alleles. [SEP] B. The offspring had a recessive allele. [SEP] C. The offspring were pink. [SEP] D. The offspring were red.

Answer: C


What is the major function of the human excretory system? [SEP] 1. eliminate waste materials [SEP] 2. respond to stimuli [SEP] 3. break down food mechanically [SEP] 4. absorb nutrients from food

Answer: 1


Yumiko gave some reasons why kettles and kitchen pans are often made of copper. Which reason is correct? [SEP] A. Copper is a good conductor of heat. [SEP] B. Copper is easy to melt. [SEP] C. Copper is difficult to shape. [SEP] D. Copper dissolves in hot water.

Answer: A


In most animals, combinations of various tissues make up functional units called [SEP] A. epithelial cells. [SEP] B. organs. [SEP] C. organ systems. [SEP] D. populations.

Answer: B


How do the spines of a cactus help it survive? [SEP] A. Spines help the cactus get moisture. [SEP] B. Spines anchor the cactus in the ground. [SEP] C. Spines protect the cactus from animals. [SEP] D. Spines support the stems and branches of the cactus.

Answer: C


Water enters a plant cell through the [SEP] A. cell wall. [SEP] B. chloroplasts. [SEP] C. mitochondria. [SEP] D. nucleus.

Answer: A


People are developing electric cars that would replace gasoline-burning cars. One major advantage of the electric car is that it [SEP] A. accelerates faster. [SEP] B. causes less pollution. [SEP] C. gives a smoother ride. [SEP] D. needs no battery.

Answer: B


Which group of organisms would all be found living in a tropical rain forest? [SEP] A. Lizards, insects, cacti, kangaroos [SEP] B. Vines, palm trees, tree frogs, monkeys [SEP] C. Evergreens, moose, weasels, mink [SEP] D. Lichens, mosses, caribou, polar bears

Answer: B


Which SI unit would be most appropriate for recording the length of a typical classroom? [SEP] A. gram [SEP] B. kilogram [SEP] C. meter [SEP] D. kilometer

Answer: C


If two objects are two meters apart, which of these changes will increase the gravitational force between the two objects? [SEP] A. decreasing the mass of one object [SEP] B. decreasing the mass of both objects [SEP] C. moving the objects to one meter apart [SEP] D. moving the objects to three meters apart

Answer: C


Which of these cell structures converts nutrients to energy for cell functions? [SEP] A. cell membrane [SEP] B. chloroplasts [SEP] C. mitochondria [SEP] D. endoplasmic reticulum

Answer: C


Cumulonimbus clouds often form along cold fronts. Which type of weather is most likely to occur along a cold front? [SEP] A. moderate temperature with mild breezes [SEP] B. storms with hurricane winds [SEP] C. rain with possible severe thunderstorms [SEP] D. high temperatures with low winds

Answer: C


An eagle is a bird that reproduces by laying its eggs in a dry nest. Which animal lays its eggs in a place most similar to the eagle? [SEP] A. amphibian [SEP] B. fish [SEP] C. mammal [SEP] D. reptile

Answer: D


The chemical formula for water is H_{2}O. What does the formula show about each element in the compound? [SEP] A. the number of valence electrons [SEP] B. the charge of the compound [SEP] C. the mass of protons in each atom [SEP] D. the number of atoms of each element

Answer: D


How far from Earth is an object that is 10 light years from Earth? [SEP] A. 10,000 km [SEP] B. 10,000,000 km [SEP] C. the distance light can travel in 10 years [SEP] D. ten times the distance from Earth to the Sun

Answer: C


The oceans most influence global climate by [SEP] A. releasing heat to the atmosphere. [SEP] B. cooling bordering land masses. [SEP] C. providing continuous onshore winds. [SEP] D. removing water vapor from the atmosphere.

Answer: A


A science class investigated the percentage of corn kernels that pop in bags of different brands of popcorn. Fifteen students tested three brands of popcorn each and reported their results to the class. Why did the teacher most likely have so many students report the results? [SEP] A. for more accurate results [SEP] B. for more student participation [SEP] C. to help simplify the procedure [SEP] D. to help explain the hypothesis

Answer: A


The smallest part of an element that retains the properties of the element is the [SEP] A. proton. [SEP] B. nucleus. [SEP] C. electron. [SEP] D. atom.

Answer: D


What is the composition of the nucleus of an atom? [SEP] A. ions and electrons [SEP] B. electrons and protons [SEP] C. protons and neutrons [SEP] D. neutrons and electrons

Answer: C


Which of these would best be shown as a 3-D model? [SEP] A. color spectrum [SEP] B. magnetic field [SEP] C. skeletal system [SEP] D. water cycle

Answer: C


A root emerges from a seed because of the force of [SEP] A. water against the seed coat. [SEP] B. air pushing on the seed. [SEP] C. gravity on the seed. [SEP] D. soil pressing on the seed.

Answer: A


Which of these is the BEST reason to study weather? [SEP] A. To be prepared for storms [SEP] B. To learn how fossils are formed [SEP] C. To see changing phases of the Moon [SEP] D. To find ways for animals to live longer

Answer: A


A recycling plant manager needs to melt 1500 kg of scrap copper to sell to a wire manufacturer. The copper is at 15°C and its melting point is 1083°C. The copper has a specific heat of 385 J/kg x K. How much heat is required to raise the temperature of the copper to its melting point? [SEP] A. 6.2 x 10^8 J [SEP] B. 6.3 x 10^8 J [SEP] C. 7.7 x 10^8 J [SEP] D. 7.9 x 10^8 J

Answer: A


A decomposer is an organism that [SEP] A. preys on other animals [SEP] B. eats only plants [SEP] C. recycles nutrients [SEP] D. uses sunlight to make food

Answer: C


Which type of scientist would study the relationship between simple machines and energy? [SEP] A. chemist [SEP] B. biologist [SEP] C. physicist [SEP] D. geologist

Answer: C


The seeds of an oak come from the ___. [SEP] A. fruit [SEP] B. leaf [SEP] C. root [SEP] D. stem

Answer: A


A manufacturer wants to produce a container for food storage that does not break easily and is airtight, inexpensive, and microwave-safe. Which of the following is the best material to use to make the container? [SEP] A. glass [SEP] B. metal [SEP] C. paper [SEP] D. plastic

Answer: D


When carbon and oxygen combine chemically, the mass of the product is [SEP] 1. greater than the mass of the carbon plus the mass of the oxygen [SEP] 2. equal to the mass of the carbon plus the mass of the oxygen [SEP] 3. equal to the mass of the carbon [SEP] 4. less than the mass of the carbon

Answer: 2


Juvenile diabetes is a disease caused by the body's inability to create insulin. The body's white blood cells attack the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. This type of disease is known as [SEP] A. a cardiovascular disease. [SEP] B. an infectious disease. [SEP] C. a digestive system disease. [SEP] D. an autoimmune disease.

Answer: D


Which of these describes a property of all matter? [SEP] A. All matter gives off light. [SEP] B. All matter is attracted by magnets. [SEP] C. All matter is made of atoms. [SEP] D. All matter dissolves in water.

Answer: C


Which of the following is a characteristic of all chemical changes? [SEP] A. A different state of matter is produced. [SEP] B. Some mass is converted to energy. [SEP] C. Some form of light is given off. [SEP] D. A new material is formed.

Answer: D


What is the complementary base of adenine in DNA? [SEP] A. cytosine [SEP] B. thymine [SEP] C. guanine [SEP] D. uracil

Answer: B


What is the density of a 64-g iron cube that displaces 8 mL of water? [SEP] A. 512 g/mL [SEP] B. 32 g/mL [SEP] C. 8 g/mL [SEP] D. 4 g/mL

Answer: C


What keeps Mars in orbit around the Sun? [SEP] A. friction [SEP] B. gravity [SEP] C. magnetism [SEP] D. solar power

Answer: B


Which material is primarily a mixture of weathered rock and organic matter? [SEP] 1. minerals [SEP] 2. soil [SEP] 3. ocean water [SEP] 4. seashells

Answer: 2


How do plants most commonly break large rocks into smaller pieces? [SEP] A. Plant leaves insulate surrounding rocks from extreme temperatures. [SEP] B. Plant roots grow into cracks in rocks. [SEP] C. Seeds from plants fall onto rocks and release acidic compounds. [SEP] D. Stems of plants surround and squeeze rocks.

Answer: B


Which statement best describes the climate of Nevada? [SEP] A. Temperature at night dropped behind a cold front. [SEP] B. Wind increased during the day. [SEP] C. Humidity is low throughout every summer. [SEP] D. Air pressure increased gradually all week.

Answer: C


What is the primary function of skin cells? [SEP] A. to deliver messages to the brain [SEP] B. to generate movement of muscles [SEP] C. to provide a physical barrier to the body [SEP] D. to produce carbohydrates for energy

Answer: C


Some plants grow only in specific places in the world. Some cacti, for example, grow only in deserts. Which of the following is most important in determining where a plant can grow and survive? [SEP] A. animals [SEP] B. climate [SEP] C. tides [SEP] D. wind

Answer: B


A geologist found fossils of horse bones in different rock layers of a canyon. The fossils in the lower levels show shorter bones than those in the upper-level fossils. Which conclusion is based on the geologist's observations? [SEP] A. Horse's reproduce using two parents. [SEP] B. Horse's became larger over time. [SEP] C. Smaller Horse's went extinct, and then larger Horse's formed. [SEP] D. Smaller Horse's are better suited to the environment than larger Horse's.

Answer: B


Which of the following is a reason life in the outermost planets is less likely than life on planets nearer the Sun? [SEP] A. They have too little mass. [SEP] B. They have too much mass. [SEP] C. Their surfaces are extremely hot. [SEP] D. Their surfaces are extremely cold.

Answer: D


Which statement best explains how periods on the periodic table are organized? [SEP] A. increasing atomic number from left to right [SEP] B. increasing number of neutrons from left to right [SEP] C. decreasing number of electrons from left to right [SEP] D. decreasing atomic mass number from left to right

Answer: A


Nonrenewable sources of energy have limited supplies. Researchers are developing devices that will make renewable energy more available. Which is a source of renewable energy? [SEP] A. coal [SEP] B. gasoline [SEP] C. oil [SEP] D. wind

Answer: D


Which of these living things in a grassland ecosystem depend on the presence of a variety of bacteria and other microorganisms in the soil? [SEP] A. worms only [SEP] B. green plants only [SEP] C. plants and animals only [SEP] D. all the organisms in the ecosystem

Answer: D


An ecosystem is a community of organisms interacting with their physical environment. Why are decomposers an important part of ecosystems? [SEP] A. They break down dead organisms to return nutrients to the soil. [SEP] B. They produce their own food for survival. [SEP] C. They play a role in preventing weathering and erosion. [SEP] D. They provide most of the energy to consumers.

Answer: A


Which term identifies a group of cells that work together to perform a similar function? [SEP] 1. molecule [SEP] 2. organ [SEP] 3. organism [SEP] 4. tissue

Answer: 4


Which of these statements is not considered part of the Big Bang Theory? [SEP] A. The universe is expanding. [SEP] B. The universe never changes. [SEP] C. The universe began in a hot, dense state. [SEP] D. The universe began at a single point and time.

Answer: B


Cells in the body use oxygen (O2) for cellular respiration. Which is the result of cellular respiration? [SEP] A. ATP is produced and carbon dioxide (CO2) is released. [SEP] B. ATP is consumed and carbon dioxide (CO2) is released. [SEP] C. ATP is produced and carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed. [SEP] D. ATP is consumed and carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed.

Answer: A


Which geologic process is absent from the Gulf Coast states? [SEP] A. beach development [SEP] B. subduction zones [SEP] C. weathering [SEP] D. erosion

Answer: B


The human body gets the energy it needs for growth and repair directly from [SEP] A. soil [SEP] B. food [SEP] C. sunlight [SEP] D. water

Answer: B


In what type of rock would a geologist most likely find evidence of ancient life? [SEP] A. sedimentary [SEP] B. foliated [SEP] C. metamorphic [SEP] D. volcanic

Answer: A


During the Apollo 14 moon landing, astronauts played golf on the moon. Which of the following would be less on the moon than on Earth? [SEP] A. The mass of the golf ball [SEP] B. The weight of the golf ball [SEP] C. The mass and size of the golf ball [SEP] D. The weight and size of the golf ball

Answer: B


Evaporation, condensation, and precipitation are all processes which occur in the [SEP] A. water cycle. [SEP] B. energy cycle. [SEP] C. carbon cycle. [SEP] D. nitrogen cycle.

Answer: A


Directions Read the information about wind erosion then answer the question. Wind can cause erosion that changes the surface of the Earth. Wind erosion can have negative effects on the environment by removing soil and polluting the air during dust storms. Walter wanted to find out if faster wind speeds increased the amount of wind erosion. Which instrument should he use to measure wind speed? [SEP] A. anemometer [SEP] B. barometer [SEP] C. rain gauge [SEP] D. thermometer

Answer: A


Where does oxygen-rich blood go after leaving the lungs? [SEP] A. the brain. [SEP] B. the heart. [SEP] C. the kidney. [SEP] D. the stomach.

Answer: B


Chemical pesticides are sometimes sprayed on crops to kill insects that eat the crops. People have different viewpoints about the use of pesticides on crops. What might be a concern about using pesticides on the crops? [SEP] A. Will the food ripen? [SEP] B. Will the food stay fresh? [SEP] C. Will the food harm humans? [SEP] D. Will the food harm bugs in the home?

Answer: C


The number of fish in a lake suddenly increases. How will the increase most likely affect the lake? [SEP] A. There will be less water in the lake. [SEP] B. More plants will grow in the lake. [SEP] C. More frogs will live in the lake. [SEP] D. There will be fewer insects in the lake.

Answer: D


Which statement correctly describes a relationship between two human body systems? [SEP] A. The digestive system absorbs nutrients which are transported by the nervous system. [SEP] B. The digestive system absorbs nutrients which are transported by the circulatory system. [SEP] C. The circulatory system exchanges gases which are transported by the nervous system. [SEP] D. The circulatory system exchanges gases which are transported by the digestive system.

Answer: B


Which statement best explains Earth's day and night cycle? [SEP] A. Earth rotates once each day on its axis. [SEP] B. Earth revolves around the Sun each year. [SEP] C. The Sun is closest to Earth during the day. [SEP] D. The tilt of Earth changes throughout the year.

Answer: A


What is the first thing a student should do if an accident happens during a science experiment? [SEP] A. report to the teacher [SEP] B. clean the laboratory station [SEP] C. locate the nearest exit [SEP] D. put on safety goggles

Answer: A


Which of the following helps keep the Moon in its orbit? [SEP] A. friction [SEP] B. gravity [SEP] C. longitude [SEP] D. latitude

Answer: B


Which process allows green plants to control the amount of water stored in their leaves? [SEP] A. photosynthesis [SEP] B. condensation [SEP] C. respiration [SEP] D. transpiration

Answer: D


What is a job of white blood cells? [SEP] A. transport oxygen [SEP] B. remove waste [SEP] C. fight disease [SEP] D. enable reproduction

Answer: C


Which is an example of kinetic energy? [SEP] A. a book sitting on a shelf [SEP] B. a ball rolling down a hill [SEP] C. a runner about to start a race [SEP] D. a window getting hot from the sun

Answer: B


A new mutation that occurs in which type of cell can be passed on to offspring? [SEP] A. blood cell [SEP] B. nerve cell [SEP] C. brain cell [SEP] D. egg cell

Answer: D


When too much salt is detected in the bloodstream, the brain secretes a hormone that helps the body retain water by reducing the amount of urine produced. This is an example of [SEP] A. a feedback loop. [SEP] B. an acquired trait. [SEP] C. a balanced ecosystem. [SEP] D. a symbiotic relationship.

Answer: A


Which of these is a safe practice in a laboratory investigation when working with chemicals? [SEP] A. pouring unused chemicals down the sink [SEP] B. mixing leftover chemicals in one container [SEP] C. wearing safety goggles when working with chemicals [SEP] D. returning unused chemicals to the original container

Answer: C


Which change in the environment would have a negative effect on the survival of a species in an ecosystem? [SEP] A. increase in the population of prey [SEP] B. introduction of a competing species [SEP] C. decrease in the population of predators [SEP] D. increase in genetic diversity of the species

Answer: B


An element is identified by [SEP] A. its number of protons. [SEP] B. the atomic mass. [SEP] C. the type of charge. [SEP] D. its number of isotopes.

Answer: A


Which of these dissolve in water? [SEP] A. Sand grains [SEP] B. Sugar cubes [SEP] C. Plastic straws [SEP] D. Wooden spoons

Answer: B


What is the main function of a plant stem? [SEP] A. to collect pollen from other plants to make seeds [SEP] B. to absorb water and plant nutrients from the soil [SEP] C. to carry food and water to the rest of the plant [SEP] D. to make food for the plant

Answer: C


Naturally occurring variations within a species are mainly the result of mutations and [SEP] 1. sexual reproduction [SEP] 2. dynamic equilibrium [SEP] 3. metabolism [SEP] 4. camouflage

Answer: 1


As a sample of water turns to ice, [SEP] A. new molecules are formed. [SEP] B. the mass of the sample is increased. [SEP] C. the arrangement of the molecules changes. [SEP] D. energy is absorbed by the molecules.

Answer: C


An ice cube is placed in a pan. The pan is placed over an open flame. Which change will most likely happen over time? [SEP] A. The ice changes to a liquid and back to a solid. [SEP] B. The ice changes to a liquid then to a gas. [SEP] C. The ice changes to a gas and back to a solid. [SEP] D. The ice changes to a gas then to a liquid.

Answer: B


Byron is investigating how temperature affects mold growth on bread. Before starting his procedure, Byron states in his journal that he thinks wet bread placed in the refrigerator will grow the most mold. Which term best describes Byron's statement? [SEP] A. conclusion [SEP] B. result [SEP] C. hypothesis [SEP] D. variable

Answer: C


The telephone was invented in Boston by [SEP] A. Alexander Graham Bell. [SEP] B. Samuel F. B. Morse. [SEP] C. Henry Ford. [SEP] D. Thomas Alva Edison.

Answer: A


Which characteristic can an amoeba change that a paramecium cannot change? [SEP] A. sex [SEP] B. shape [SEP] C. color [SEP] D. position

Answer: B


A metal spoon was left in a pot of boiling soup. The cook burned a finger by touching the spoon. Why did the finger get burned? [SEP] A. The metal spoon chemically reacted with the cook's hand. [SEP] B. The metal spoon conducted electricity to the cook's hand. [SEP] C. The metal spoon conducted heat to the cook's hand. [SEP] D. The metal spoon insulated the cook's hand.

Answer: C


Light rays are focused by the lens of a camera through the process of [SEP] A. reflection. [SEP] B. refraction. [SEP] C. dispersion. [SEP] D. diffraction.

Answer: B


Which of these provides the best evidence that the distribution of Earth's oceans has changed over time? [SEP] A. hot spots on ocean floors [SEP] B. seismic activity along plate boundaries [SEP] C. sediment buildup on continental slope [SEP] D. marine fossils found on land masses

Answer: D


Which change would have the greatest negative impact on the survival of an owl species? [SEP] A. an increase in primary consumer population [SEP] B. an decrease in acid rain [SEP] C. an decrease in size of habitat [SEP] D. an increase in producers

Answer: C


Which organ removes cell waste from the blood? [SEP] A. the large intestine [SEP] B. the small intestine [SEP] C. the kidney [SEP] D. the heart

Answer: C


According to the Big Bang Theory, how is the universe changing? [SEP] A. It is contracting. [SEP] B. It is expanding. [SEP] C. Only the rim is expanding. [SEP] D. Only the center is contracting.

Answer: B


Light enters the human eye through the [SEP] A. retina. [SEP] B. pupil. [SEP] C. iris. [SEP] D. lens.

Answer: B


The stages in the life cycle of an organism are shown below. birth -> growth -> development -> reproduction -> death In which life cycle stage will a new organism be made? [SEP] A. growth [SEP] B. development [SEP] C. reproduction [SEP] D. death

Answer: C


Baby chicks peck their way out of their shells when they hatch. This activity is an example of which of the following types of behavior? [SEP] A. instinctive [SEP] B. learned [SEP] C. planned [SEP] D. social

Answer: A


Which conclusion can be made about earthworms because they do not have an internal skeleton? [SEP] A. They are invertebrates. [SEP] B. They have radial symmetry. [SEP] C. They are made of one segment. [SEP] D. They have an open circulatory system.

Answer: A


The smallest unit of a plant that can perform all of the processes of life is the [SEP] A. leaf. [SEP] B. cell. [SEP] C. tissue. [SEP] D. root.

Answer: B


Soda water is a liquid that has bubbles of carbon dioxide in it. Which term best describes soda water? [SEP] A. a mixture [SEP] B. a molecule [SEP] C. an element [SEP] D. a compound

Answer: A


All stars start forming in the same manner. Some follow the life cycle of the Sun, while others turn into neutron stars or black holes. Which property determines the fate of a star as it develops? [SEP] A. mass [SEP] B. location [SEP] C. luminosity [SEP] D. temperature

Answer: A


If a neutral atom loses an electron, what is formed? [SEP] A. A gas [SEP] B. An ion [SEP] C. An acid [SEP] D. A molecule

Answer: B


A student mixed baking soda with vinegar and observed that the reaction was endothermic. When is a reaction endothermic? [SEP] A. when it is reversible [SEP] B. when it can be repeated [SEP] C. when it requires heat to make it happen [SEP] D. when energy is released by the process

Answer: C


What is the primary energy source that drives all weather events, including precipitation, hurricanes, and tornados? [SEP] A. the Sun [SEP] B. the Moon [SEP] C. Earth's gravity [SEP] D. Earth's rotation

Answer: A


Which system absorbs and carries food from the digestive system to the rest of the body? [SEP] A. nervous system [SEP] B. muscular system [SEP] C. circulatory system [SEP] D. respiratory system

Answer: C


Why do planets stay in orbit around the Sun? [SEP] A. attraction of gravity [SEP] B. effect of inertia [SEP] C. frictional force [SEP] D. rotational force

Answer: A


Earth rotates on its north-south axis. Which statement best describes one complete rotation? [SEP] A. It takes six months and causes summer and winter seasons. [SEP] B. It takes 24 hours and causes night and day. [SEP] C. It takes 29 days, which represents one cycle of the Moon's phases. [SEP] D. It takes 365 days, which represents one Earth year.

Answer: B


A rock sample will most likely contain [SEP] A. plants. [SEP] B. minerals. [SEP] C. water. [SEP] D. wood.

Answer: B


A jet plane is moving at a constant velocity on a flat surface. Which forces act against the forward motion of the plane? [SEP] A. gravity and engine thrust [SEP] B. engine thrust and friction [SEP] C. friction and air resistance [SEP] D. air resistance and gravity

Answer: C


Atmospheric greenhouse gases help heat the atmosphere by [SEP] A. increasing the amount of solar radiation reaching Earth. [SEP] B. storing energy produced by human activity. [SEP] C. absorbing infrared radiation released by Earth. [SEP] D. increasing the average density of air.

Answer: C


Scurvy is a disease that sailors often got on long voyages. It was discovered that scurvy could be prevented by eating oranges and lemons. This suggests that scurvy is a disease caused by [SEP] 1. exposure to sea air [SEP] 2. a nutritional deficiency [SEP] 3. a microorganism [SEP] 4. lack of exercise

Answer: 2


Runoff from farms that use fertilizers is entering a small lake. This will most directly affect the lake by causing [SEP] A. the lake to dry up. [SEP] B. algae to grow in the lake. [SEP] C. the lake to become deeper. [SEP] D. water in the lake to become solid.

Answer: B


Why is protein an important part of a healthy diet? [SEP] A. It is needed to change glucose to energy. [SEP] B. It is needed to store nutrients. [SEP] C. It is needed to repair tissue. [SEP] D. It is needed to produce water.

Answer: C


An atom will always have [SEP] A. a single, negatively-charged nucleus. [SEP] B. equal numbers of protons and electrons. [SEP] C. "shared" electrons from another atom. [SEP] D. a stable number of charged neutrons.

Answer: B


Students on two different school campuses are comparing the growth rate of grass three weeks after fertilizer has been applied. The same fertilizer and the same amount of water are used on both campuses. Which additional variable is most important to control when the results of the two investigations are compared? [SEP] A. type of grass used [SEP] B. amount of trees in the area [SEP] C. the weather conditions of the day [SEP] D. the time of day the measurements are taken

Answer: A


A caterpillar changing into a butterfly is an example of [SEP] A. instinct. [SEP] B. duplication. [SEP] C. reproduction. [SEP] D. metamorphosis.

Answer: D


Some immune cells are actively involved in ingesting, destroying, and presenting invading microbial antigens on their surface to stimulate other cells to produce antibodies. Which of these cells is responsible for initiating such an immune response? [SEP] A. mast cells [SEP] B. phagocytes [SEP] C. B-lymphocytes [SEP] D. T-lymphocytes

Answer: B


A single prokaryotic cell can divide several times in an hour. Few eukaryotic cells can divide as quickly. Which of the following statements best explains this difference? [SEP] A. Eukaryotic cells are smaller than prokaryotic cells. [SEP] B. Eukaryotic cells have less DNA than prokaryotic cells. [SEP] C. Eukaryotic cells have more cell walls than prokaryotic cells. [SEP] D. Eukaryotic cells are more structurally complex than prokaryotic cells.

Answer: D


Which biological process determines the probability that particular alleles will be found in any given gamete? [SEP] A. mutation [SEP] B. meiosis [SEP] C. cell cycle [SEP] D. protein synthesis

Answer: B


When a person speaks into a telephone, sound energy is changed mostly into which form of energy? [SEP] A. heat [SEP] B. light [SEP] C. electrical [SEP] D. chemical

Answer: C


In the human body, what part of the central nervous system connects with other nerves outside of the central nervous system? [SEP] A. dendrite [SEP] B. cerebrum [SEP] C. cerebellum [SEP] D. spinal cord

Answer: D


Photovoltaic cells capture photons of sunlight and transform them directly into electricity. Many of Earth's other energy resources are simply transformed solar energy. Which two energy resources store energy that did not begin as solar energy? [SEP] A. oil and coal [SEP] B. wind and wood [SEP] C. nuclear and geothermal [SEP] D. hydropower and natural gas

Answer: C


What determines how long the Moon takes to complete one cycle of phases? [SEP] A. the period of rotation of the Moon around its axis [SEP] B. the period of revolution of the Moon around Earth [SEP] C. the period of rotation of Earth around its axis [SEP] D. the period of revolution of Earth around the Sun

Answer: B


Oxygen reacts with iron to produce rust and with hydrogen to produce water. Which statement describes both reactions? [SEP] A. A different mixture is formed in each case. [SEP] B. A different solution is formed in each case. [SEP] C. Both a change of state and of elements is involved. [SEP] D. New molecules are formed but the same elements exist.

Answer: D


What is the primary job of red blood cells? [SEP] A. transport oxygen [SEP] B. remove waste [SEP] C. fight disease [SEP] D. allow reproduction

Answer: A


What kingdom contains organisms that are multicellular, have no chlorophyll, and absorb nutrients from decaying tissue? [SEP] A. Fungi [SEP] B. Plantae [SEP] C. Protista [SEP] D. Animalia

Answer: A


A salvage yard contains a mixture of iron, glass, aluminum, and plastic. Which property of iron does the salvage yard take advantage of when separating the iron from the rest of the materials? [SEP] A. magnetic [SEP] B. electrical [SEP] C. ductility [SEP] D. malleability

Answer: A


While a sailor was out fishing, he got lost at sea. Which object would help him direct the boat back to shore? [SEP] A. Rope [SEP] B. Magnetic compass [SEP] C. Blanket [SEP] D. Measuring tape

Answer: B


Water is a very important part of the physical weathering of rock. Which of these properties of water is most important in causing some of the physical weathering of rock? [SEP] A. Water is a liquid at room temperature. [SEP] B. Water can contain different minerals. [SEP] C. Water expands when it freezes. [SEP] D. Water dissolves many chemicals.

Answer: C


A student uses a telescope to view stars at night. The student notices some of the stars are different colors. The color of a star is determined most by its [SEP] A. size. [SEP] B. distance from Earth. [SEP] C. mass. [SEP] D. temperature.

Answer: D


Which function is performed at similarly structured sites in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells? [SEP] A. protein synthesis [SEP] B. packaging and transport of proteins [SEP] C. storage of genetic material [SEP] D. release of energy from storage forms

Answer: A


Which material is the best natural resource to use for making water-resistant shoes? [SEP] A. cotton [SEP] B. leather [SEP] C. plastic [SEP] D. wool

Answer: B


When hunting by humans causes a species to become extinct, this may produce damaging effects throughout the ecosystem of the extinct species. What is the cause of this damage? [SEP] A. alteration of a food web [SEP] B. degradation of a habitat [SEP] C. modification of a climate [SEP] D. reversal of a flow of energy

Answer: A


Sarah's class is learning about mixtures and solutions. Her teacher writes four statements on the board. Which statement best describes a mixture? [SEP] A. Both substances mix evenly. [SEP] B. Both substances can evaporate. [SEP] C. One substance dissolves into another. [SEP] D. One substance can be separated from the other.

Answer: D


Which of the following best explains why the Sun appears to move across the sky every day? [SEP] A. The Sun rotates on its axis. [SEP] B. Earth rotates on its axis. [SEP] C. The Sun orbits around Earth. [SEP] D. Earth orbits around the Sun.

Answer: B


The theory of spontaneous generation was eventually disproved scientifically by [SEP] A. arguments in philosophy. [SEP] B. chemical analysis of material. [SEP] C. examining models of the process. [SEP] D. conducting a controlled experiment.

Answer: D


Discarded electronic devices, such as outdated computers and cell phones, contain materials that can be toxic to the environment. Which statement best explains why humans continue to use these technologies? [SEP] A. Electronics have become less expensive over time. [SEP] B. Some areas have recycling programs for electronics. [SEP] C. Industries that produce electronics help the economy. [SEP] D. Humans value the benefits of these devices over their cost.

Answer: D


A student crumples up a sheet of paper. Which property of the paper has changed? [SEP] A. color [SEP] B. mass [SEP] C. state [SEP] D. shape

Answer: D


When a plant dies, it often decomposes and becomes part of the soil. This process is one step in which cycle? [SEP] A. lunar [SEP] B. water [SEP] C. carbon [SEP] D. energy

Answer: C


Which would best aid a scientist in discovering how Earth may have changed over time? [SEP] A. finding the nest of a bald eagle [SEP] B. tracking the footprints of a wolf [SEP] C. analyzing the pollination of a sunflower [SEP] D. discovering a fossil of a seashell in a wooded area

Answer: D


Kendall studied the ways in which human body systems work together. He compared the respiratory and circulatory systems. In which way are these two systems similar to each other? [SEP] A. They both bring oxygen to the body. [SEP] B. They both send messages to the body. [SEP] C. They both digest nutrients for the body. [SEP] D. They both pump blood through the body.

Answer: A


A difference between the oceanic crust and the continental crust is that the oceanic crust is [SEP] A. composed chiefly of sedimentary rocks. [SEP] B. more dense than the continental crust. [SEP] C. older than the continental crust. [SEP] D. continually being created.

Answer: B


Which of these elements is found in the greatest amount in organisms? [SEP] A. carbon [SEP] B. iron [SEP] C. lead [SEP] D. neon

Answer: A


After mining removes layers of rock from a hillside, new plants begin to grow in the cracks of the bare rock. The plants beginning to grow are an example of which natural process? [SEP] A. secondary succession in an existing ecosystem [SEP] B. new species developing in an ecosystem [SEP] C. species competition in a community [SEP] D. primary succession in a new habitat

Answer: D


Improvements in farming technology would most likely [SEP] A. increase the amount of food produced. [SEP] B. change global climate conditions. [SEP] C. promote unhealthy dietary choices. [SEP] D. decrease the amount of daily exercise.

Answer: A


In a container, a mixture of water and salt is stirred so that the salt dissolves completely. Sand is added to this solution and allowed to settle to the bottom of the container. If the container is placed on a heat source and the liquid evaporates completely, what will be left in the container? [SEP] A. Nothing will remain in the container. [SEP] B. Only salt will remain in the container. [SEP] C. Only sand will remain in the container. [SEP] D. Salt and sand will both remain in the container.

Answer: D


Which of the following is formed immediately after fertilization? [SEP] A. egg [SEP] B. sperm [SEP] C. zygote [SEP] D. embryo

Answer: C


Which of the following helped lead to the invention of personal computers? [SEP] A. Internet [SEP] B. keyboard [SEP] C. wireless transmitter [SEP] D. integrated circuit

Answer: D


Blood absorbs oxygen in the [SEP] A. heart. [SEP] B. lungs. [SEP] C. stomach. [SEP] D. muscles.

Answer: B


A student adds sugar, spices, and salt to a bowl of peanuts and stirs them together. What has the student made? [SEP] A. a compound [SEP] B. a substance [SEP] C. a mixture [SEP] D. a solution

Answer: C


Over time, non-volcanic mountains can form due to the interaction of plate boundaries. Which interaction is most likely associated with the formation of non-volcanic mountains? [SEP] A. oceanic plates colliding with oceanic plates [SEP] B. oceanic plates separating from oceanic plates [SEP] C. continental plates colliding with continental plates [SEP] D. continental plates separating from continental plates

Answer: C


Most stars in the Milky Way are like the Sun. The Sun will eventually become a red giant. After the red giant stage, what determines whether a star will become a white dwarf or a supernova? [SEP] A. the mass of the star [SEP] B. the diameter of the star [SEP] C. the brightness of the star [SEP] D. the type of gas in the star

Answer: A


How should researchers share their findings with other scientists to validate their study of the effectiveness of a new medication? [SEP] A. e-mail the research results to local newspapers [SEP] B. publish the research results in a scientific journal [SEP] C. publish the results in brochures for doctors [SEP] D. discuss the research results on the Internet

Answer: B


Gaseous sulfur dioxide is a compound that combines with water in the atmosphere to form acid rain. What is the primary source of sulfur dioxide? [SEP] A. volcanic emissions [SEP] B. combustion of fossil fuels [SEP] C. destruction of tropical forests [SEP] D. mining and mineral extraction

Answer: B


The motion of Earth is responsible for several celestial events. Which of the following events is caused by Earth revolving around the sun? [SEP] A. the days in a year [SEP] B. the hours in a day [SEP] C. the changes in the atmosphere of Earth [SEP] D. the position of the constellations in space

Answer: A


What takes place as a light wave enters a denser medium? [SEP] A. it is reflected [SEP] B. it is absorbed [SEP] C. it is refracted [SEP] D. it is compressed

Answer: C


Deforestation in the rainforest can lead to localized extinctions of populations of some organisms. Once an area is deforested, which is most likely to decrease and result in organisms' extinctions? [SEP] A. the amount of annual rainfall [SEP] B. competition between consumers [SEP] C. the energy available to producers [SEP] D. diversity of the resources in the habitat

Answer: D


Which of the following causes a ship’s iron anchor to sink to the ocean floor when it is released overboard? [SEP] A. chemical forces [SEP] B. gravity [SEP] C. magnetism [SEP] D. nuclear forces

Answer: B


In clear weather, a bright light can be seen for a long distance. In conditions of heavy fog, the visibility is greatly reduced. Which of the following explains the reduced visibility? [SEP] A. Light is refracted by water vapor in the air. [SEP] B. Light is scattered by water droplets in the air. [SEP] C. Light is absorbed by water vapor near the ground. [SEP] D. Light is reflected by water droplets on the ground.

Answer: B


When the pesticide DDT was first used, it killed nearly every mosquito it touched. Within a few years, however, many mosquitoes became resistant to DDT and survived. What enabled this to happen? [SEP] A. meiosis [SEP] B. migration [SEP] C. immune responses [SEP] D. gene mutations

Answer: D