What describes the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Fission splits nuclei & fusion makes radiant energy of stars

Which is an effect of lower levels of solar radiation striking Earth?

decreased rates of photosynthesis

Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?

creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil

If it is summer in the northern hemisphere, which statement is true?

It is winter in the southern hemisphere .

Why would local government vote against large-scale development of buildings & roads in an area

It could form heat islands which impact the microclimate.

Which is associated with an increase of chlorofluorocarbons in the environment?

an increase in health risks associated with UV radiation

What occurs when a fast-moving cold air mass moves into a region of warmer, moist air?

heavy precipitation for a short time

Which consequence could an exponentially growing human population have on drinkable water?

increase cases of waterborne diseases

Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?

a continual increase in the number of people on Earth

Which factor would contribute the most to an urban city being an urban heat island?

construction of parking areas and road systems

In which way could the average increase in global temperature influence Earth?

increasing amounts of flooding because of rising sea levels

How can urbanization affect a local area?

It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.

A local government is considering whether to build a dam. Which is an advantage of building it?

Create a storage place for water

Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes and thaws. How does this affect the surface?

It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering.

What is the main cause of subsurface ocean currents that circulate warm water from the equator?

differences in density of ocean water

Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?

to increase stability of ecosystems when environment changes

What is a likely consequence of increased drilling for freshwater along a coastal area?

an intrusion of salt water into aquifers

Which will most likely occur before a volcanic eruption?

increase in earthquake activity

Which is a biotic factor that could affect an ecosystem?

bacteria harming the health of organisms in an ecosystem

How could the exponential growth of the human population impact regions throughout the world?

increase the demand for food in regions

Why are ocean currents important to coastal regions?

They can warm or cool the air temperatures .

Which would best aid a farmer in transitioning from conventional farming to sustainable farming

rotate the types of crops grown

What lasting impact can upgrading purification &management systems have on available freshwater

It could cause an increase in the freshwater supply.

What change would best aid a conventional farmer making the transition to sustainable farming?

rotate the types of crops grown

Disease causes the rabbit population to decline drastically;how would it impact the community?

The sparrow population would decrease.

How could the introduction of a nonnative species of plant affect an ecosystem in NC?

Take over habitats of native plant species

Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes & thaws.How does this affect the Earth's surface

It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering

Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?

increase in number of people on Earth

What long-term impact could the destruction of large areas of forests have on Earth?

increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels

Which is an advantage of safely using uranium as an energy source rather than using coal?

Uranium produces energy without polluting the atmosphere.

Which statement best describes the motion of Earth around the sun?

Speed increases when Earth is closer to the sun.

Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?

creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil

Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?

increase stability of ecosystems during environmental change

How does the tilt of the Earth’s axis affect the seasons?

by changing the amount of direct solar energy reaching Earth

Which best describes the relationship between carrying capacity and Earth's resources?

Population above carrying capacity decreases resources

How can urbanization affect a local area?

It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.

Which example describes an abiotic factor that could impact the diversity of an ecosystem?

increased acid rain changes the pH of the soil

Which would produce the most severe earthquake damage along the surface of Earth?

an earthquake with a shallow focus and a magnitude of 4.5

What is the main cause of Urban City X being an urban heat island?

the construction of parking areas and road systems

studbud

Combined: NC Earth Science Released Questions 2016 + Earth Science NC Final Exam 2013 Part 4...

85 termsStudBud Administration30 plays

NC Earth Science Released Questions 2016: These items were given on the NC Final Exam in Earth Science and were released to the public in 2016. Some items/answer choices had to be adjusted due to the limited amount of space in the Quiz writing program. Earth Science Released

Flashcards85 cardsFPractice quizPHost liveL

Questions 85

Answers

1
What describes the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?
Earth's core uses fission & power plants use fusion
Power plants use fission & Earth's core uses fusion
Fission splits nuclei & fusion makes radiant energy of stars
Fission makes radiant energy of stars & fusion splits nuclei
2
Which is an effect of lower levels of solar radiation striking Earth?
decreased carbon dioxide levels
increased phytoplankton activity
increased incidences of skin cancer
decreased rates of photosynthesis
3
Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?
using fueled machines that will turn the soil continuously
irrigating the soil with salty water
creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil
placing inorganic chemical fertilizers in the soil
4
If it is summer in the northern hemisphere, which statement is true?
It is also summer in the southern hemisphere
It is winter in the southern hemisphere .
The tilt of Earth's axis changed by 20 degrees.
Earth has reached its closest point to the sun .
5
Why would local government vote against large-scale development of buildings & roads in an area
It could form heat islands which impact the microclimate.
It could introduce an invasive species.
It could decrease average annual temperature in the area.
It could decrease acid rain production in the area.
6
Which is associated with an increase of chlorofluorocarbons in the environment?
an increase in health risks associated with UV radiation
an increase in ozone levels in the upper atmosphere
an increase in levels of methane gas in the atmosphere
an increase in acid precipitation
7
What occurs when a fast-moving cold air mass moves into a region of warmer, moist air?
light precipitation for a long time
heavy precipitation for a long time
heavy precipitation for a short time
light precipitation for a short time
8
Which consequence could an exponentially growing human population have on drinkable water?
increase the amount of water available for the population
decrease the amount of waste and pollutants in water supply
decrease the need of water for survival
increase cases of waterborne diseases
9
Which agent of erosion leads to the formation of sand dunes?
ice
water
gravity
wind
10
Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?
continual decrease in amount of water in Earth’s aquifers
continual increase in amount of pollution in the atmosphere
a continual decrease in the amount of rain forests on Earth
a continual increase in the number of people on Earth
11
Which factor would contribute the most to an urban city being an urban heat island?
construction of parking areas and road systems
installation of solar panels
building of rooftop gardens
planting trees and other vegetation
12
What is a disadvantage of adding large quantities of sand to the beach to stabilize shorelines?
It causes inland erosion.
It is a short-term solution.
It disrupts the vegetation along the coastline.
It prevents tides from occurring along the coastline.
13
In which way could the average increase in global temperature influence Earth?
increasing the formation of sea ice within polar regions
decreasing periods of drought in all water systems
decreasing erosion within coastal ecosystems
increasing amounts of flooding because of rising sea levels
14
Which is the most common contamination source for freshwater resources?
lightning
runoff
digging wells
melting of glaciersl
15
How can urbanization affect a local area?
It can increase the number of invasive species in an area.
It can decrease the risk of water pollution in an area.
It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.
It can decrease the need for natural resources in an area.
16
A local government is considering whether to build a dam. Which is an advantage of building it?
Decrease the accumulation of sediment in the water
Create a storage place for water
It is an inexpensive process.
Improve the natural habitat of plants and animals
17
Kudzu,brought to control erosion,prevents other plants getting sun.Which best describes kudzu?
abiotic factor
agent of erosion
noncompetitive species
invasive, nonnative species
18
Which natural phenomenon occurs as a result of Earth rotating on its axis?
day and night
deep ocean currents
movement of tectonic plates
seasonal changes
19
Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes and thaws. How does this affect the surface?
It changes the chemical composition of the rocks.
It limits the exposure of rocks to acid precipitation.
It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering.
It reduces the rates of soil formation.
20
What is the main cause of subsurface ocean currents that circulate warm water from the equator?
the rotation of Earth on its axis
differences in density of ocean water
movement of the jet stream
differences in the topography along the ocean floor
21
Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?
to increase stability of ecosystems when environment changes
to decrease the amount of global predator populations
to decrease the stability of major global ocean currents
to increase amount of nonrenewable resources in lithosphere
22
What is a likely consequence of increased drilling for freshwater along a coastal area?
an intrusion of salt water into aquifers
a decrease in salt concentration in inlet waterways
the loss of water resources in estuaries
destruction of estuaries because of increase in sea levels
23
Which will most likely occur before a volcanic eruption?
increase in earthquake activity
increase in mud flow
increase in lava flow
increase in acid rain production
24
Which is a biotic factor that could affect an ecosystem?
high levels of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere
large amounts of acid rain precipitation seeping into soil
dust storms moving through an ecosystem
bacteria harming the health of organisms in an ecosystem
25
How could the exponential growth of the human population impact regions throughout the world?
increase biodiversity of regions
decrease the demand for land within regions
decrease the amount of pollution in regions
increase the demand for food in regions
26
How could the removal of trees and other vegetation impact an environment?
by increasing transpiration
by increasing soil formation
by increasing oxygen production
by increasing erosion
27
Why are ocean currents important to coastal regions?
They can warm or cool the air temperatures .
They produce high and low tides.
They vertically push warm water & nutrients to the surface.
They increase the rate of precipitation.
28
Which would best aid a farmer in transitioning from conventional farming to sustainable farming
irrigate crops using well water
reduce the ratio of essential elements in the fertilizer
rotate the types of crops grown
plant only genetically modified crops
29
What lasting impact can upgrading purification &management systems have on available freshwater
It could cause a decrease in water demand.
It could cause an increase in waterborne diseases.
It could cause a decrease in the water levels.
It could cause an increase in the freshwater supply.
30
What change would best aid a conventional farmer making the transition to sustainable farming?
rotate the types of crops grown
plant only genetically modified crops
reduce the ratio of essential elements in fertilizer
irrigate crops using well water
31
Which is most likely a prevention strategy for flooding?
building waste landfills for metals and other contaminants
recycling bottled water containers
reducing water consumption
building artificial levees
32
Disease causes the rabbit population to decline drastically;how would it impact the community?
The mountain lion populations would decrease,
The fox population would increase.
The sparrow population would decrease.
The hawk population would increase.
33
In which atmospheric layer of Earth do thunderstorms occur?
stratosphere
thermosphere
mesosphere
troposphere
34
Which storm develops as air masses interact with warm water in the northwest Pacific Ocean?
monsoon
blizzard
tornado
typhoon
35
How could the introduction of a nonnative species of plant affect an ecosystem in NC?
Take over habitats of native plant species
Cause insects to destroy native plants
Pollinate native plants to produce disease-resistant species
Reduce competition for space and light with native species
36
Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes & thaws.How does this affect the Earth's surface
It changes the chemical composition of the rocks.
It limits the exposure of rocks to acid precipitation.
It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering
It reduces the rates of soil formation.
37
Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?
decrease in the amount of water in Earth's aquifers
increase in number of people on Earth
increase the amount of pollution in Earth's atmosphere
decrease in the amount of rain forests on Earth
38
What long-term impact could the destruction of large areas of forests have on Earth?
decreased rates of erosion
increased atmospheric oxygen levels
decreased amounts of acid rain
increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
39
Which is an advantage of safely using uranium as an energy source rather than using coal?
Uranium is the most cost-efficient energy resource.
Uranium can be easily mined from deep within Earth.
Uranium reduces the amount of thermal pollution.
Uranium produces energy without polluting the atmosphere.
40
Which can lead to the depletion of the ozone layer of Earth?
vehicle exhaust
coal-fired power plants
aerosols
burning compost
41
Which statement best describes the motion of Earth around the sun?
Speed is constant regardless of distance from the sun.
Speed is constant because distance from sun stays the same.
Speed increases when Earth is closer to the sun.
Speed increases when Earth is farther from the sun.
42
Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?
creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil
irrigating the soil with salty water
using fueled machines that will turn the soil continuously
placing inorganic chemical fertilizers in the soil
43
Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?
decrease the stability of major global ocean currents
increase stability of ecosystems during environmental change
increase amount of nonrenewable resources located in earth
decrease the amount of global predator populations
44
Which will form when movement along a plate boundary forces a landmass to be pulled apart?
volcanic island arc
oceanic trench
continental mountains
continental drift
45
How does the tilt of the Earth’s axis affect the seasons?
by changing the amount of direct solar energy reaching Earth
by changing the speed of the rotation of Earth
by deflecting harmful rays of radiation emitted by the sun
by influencing rates of chemical reactions in the atmosphere
46
Which is a major source of air pollution created by humans?
industrial factories
hydroelectric plants
reforestation
nuclear power
47
Which best describes the relationship between carrying capacity and Earth's resources?
Population below carrying capacity increases disease
Population below carrying capacity decreases freshwater.
Population above carrying capacity decreases resources
Population above carrying capacity increases plant products.
48
How can urbanization affect a local area?
It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.
It can decrease the need for natural resources in an area.
It can decrease the risk of water pollution in an area.
It can increase the number of invasive species in an area.
49
Which example describes an abiotic factor that could impact the diversity of an ecosystem?
invasive species change the amount of available resources
increased acid rain changes the pH of the soil
competition for food can impact survival WITHIN a species
increased prey population affects predator population
50
Which would produce the most severe earthquake damage along the surface of Earth?
an earthquake with a shallow focus and a magnitude of 2.5
an earthquake with a shallow focus and a magnitude of 4.5
an earthquake with a deep focus and a magnitude of 4.5
an earthquake with a deep focus and a magnitude of 2.5
51
What is the main cause of Urban City X being an urban heat island?
the installation of solar panels
the building of rooftop gardens
the planting of trees and other vegetation
the construction of parking areas and road systems
52
Which is the most common contamination source for freshwater resources?
runoff
digging wells
melting of glaciers
linghtning
53
How can water be an agent for physical weathering?
seeps into soil & dissolves minerals in rocks
seeps into cracks of rocks & freezes
absorbs sulfur oxides & creates acid precipitation
absorbs gases from atmosphere & ground to react w/ minerals
54
Which natural phenomenon occurs as a result of Earth rotating on its axis?
day and night
deep ocean currents
movement of tectonic plates
seasonal changes
55
How does heat from the sun get to Earth?
by absorption, using primary waves to transfer heat
by conduction, using solids to transfer heat
by radiation, using electromagnetic waves to transfer heat
by convection, using liquids & gases to transfer heat
56
How could a decrease in burning fossil fuels impact the atmosphere?
decrease oxygen levels
increase sulfur dioxide levels
increase nitrogen levels
decrease carbon dioxide levels
57
Why do green plants require solar energy?
to release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
to decompose the dead or decaying remains of animals
to produce their own food
to absorb nitrogen into their roots
58
How could upgrading a community's water treatment system impact available freshwater?
It could cause an increase in the freshwater supply.
It could cause a decrease in water demand.
It could cause an increase in waterborne diseases.
It could cause a decrease in water levels.
59
Which could most likely have a lasting negative impact on the biodiversity of an area?
clear-cutting
a reduction in the use of fertilizers
selective cutting
an increase in plant populations
60
How could a long-term decrease in precipitation impact an area?
decrease amount of damage to crops
increase average water level of lakes
decrease amount of infiltration
increase amount of flooding
61
Subsurface ocean currents circulate warm water near equator to colder water. What is main cause
movement of the jet stream
differences in the topography along the ocean floor
the rotation of Earth on its axis
differences in density of ocean water
62
What long-term impact could the destruction of large areas of forests have on Earth?
increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
decreased amounts of acid rain
increased atmospheric oxygen levels
decreased rates of erosion
63
What is most responsible for the presence of groundwater in an area?
movement of water from a confined aquifer into surface water
the movement of water from streams and rivers to watersheds
the movement of surface water through impermeable rock
movement of surface water and precipitation thru soil & rock
64
What is most responsible for the presence of groundwater in an area?
movement of water from streams and rivers to watersheds
movement of water from a confined aquifer into surface water
movement of surface water through impermeable rock
movement of surface water & precipitation thru soil & rock
65
Which gas makes up the largest component of the Earth's atmosphere?
argon (Ar)
oxygen (O2)
nitrogen (N2)
carbon dioxide (CO2)
66
Which statement best describes the ozone layer of Earth?
Prevents formation of severe storms in the stratosphere
Increases the amount of nitrogen in troposphere of Earth.
Forms a magnetic field in the mesosphere of Earth.
Helps reduce amount of UV radiation reaching the Earth.
67
Which interaction contributes to the formation of hurricanes during the late summer?
ocean water currents and polar air masses
ocean water salinity and warm air masses
ocean water temperatures and warm air masses
ocean water salinity and ocean water density
68
How does a straight alignment between Earth, the sun, and the moon impact the tides on Earth?
It produces diurnal tides.
It produces the least change in high and low tides.
It produces the greatest change in high and low tides.
It produces semidiurnal tides.
69
How can oil and natural gas be extracted from the earth?
by removing limestone deposits from the ground
by drilling deep beneath the ground
by digging in areas of volcanoes
by strip-mining in mountainous areas
70
Which results from the unequal heating of the ocean water of Earth?
changes in ocean current patterns
unchanging climate for all regions on Earth
a constant sea level
changes in tidal patterns
71
How are aquatic environments affected by factories dumping heated water into lakes and rivers?
increases the life expectancy of animals
reduces the number of aquatic species
reduces the decomposition rate of organisms
increases the amount of dissolved oxygen
72
How do air masses generally move?
from high altitude to low altitude
from low humidity to high humidity
from high pressure to low pressure
from low temperature to high temperature
73
How could the introduction of nonnative species of plant affect an ecosystem in North Carolina?
Causes some insect species to destroy native plant species.
Pollinates native plant, producing disease-resistant plants.
Takes over the habitats of the native plant species.
Reduces competition for space and light with native plants.
74
How does the tilt of the Earth's axis affect the seasons?
deflects harmful rays of radiation emitted by the sun
influences the rate of chemical reactions in the atmosphere
changes the speed of the rotation of Earth
changes the amount of solar energy reaching Earth's surface
75
Which will most likely form when movement on a plate boundary forces a landmass to pull apart?
continental mountains
oceanic trench
volcanic island arc
continental rift
76
Which is the best way to conserve worldwide freshwater resources?
build more roads and highways for cars and trucks
use more efficient irrigation techniques
increase the amount of land used to raise cattle
develop more modern coal-powered plants
77
How do weathering and erosion affect Earth's surface?
Both force tectonic plates to move across the ocean floor.
Both cause mountain ranges to become taller.
Both break down rocks and create new soil.
Both cause sedimentary rocks to form igneous rocks.
78
Which is associated with an increase of chlorofluorocarbons in the environment?
an increase in acid precipitation
an increase in levels of methane gas in the atmosphere
an increase in ozone levels in the upper atmosphere
an increase in health risks associated with UV radiation
79
Which is an effect of lower levels of solar radiation striking Earth?
decreased rates of photosynthesis
decreased carbon dioxide levels
increased incidences of skin cancer
increased phytoplankton activity
80
How is climate different from weather?
Climate affects daily plans; weather affects seasonal plans
Climate based on several years; weather based on day-to-day
Climate is on a given date; weather is during a given season
Climate constantly changes; weather changes slowly over time
81
What information can be learned from a graph showing time differences between P waves & S waves
epicenter of an earthquake
magnitude of an earthquake
intensity of an earthquake
duration of an earthquake
82
Which structure can form as a result of a divergent plate boundary?
continental volcanic arc, due to collision of two plates
continental mountain, due to collision of two plates
ocean trench, due to separation of two plates
mid-ocean ridge, due to separation of two plates
83
A rural forest receives a lot of rain in a short time. What would most likely cause flooding?
if the area has a large uncharged aquifer beneath it
if the ground of the area is already saturated with water
if the ground of the area is mostly sandy soil
if the water level in area is below the zone of saturation
84
Which storm most likely develops as air masses interact with warm water in NW Pacific Ocean?
monsoon
blizzard
typhoon
tornado
85
What is formed when impermeable rock forces groundwater laterally & it emerges onto the surface
a geyser
a spring
a well
an aquifer

Combined: NC Earth Science Released Questions 2016 + Earth Science NC Final Exam 2013 Part 4... Flashcards | StudBud

Combined: NC Earth Science Released Questions 2016 + Earth Science NC Final Exam 2013 Part 4...

85 termsStudBud Administration30 plays

Flashcards85 cardsFPractice quizPHost liveL

Questions 85

Answers

1
What describes the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?
Earth's core uses fission & power plants use fusion
Power plants use fission & Earth's core uses fusion
Fission splits nuclei & fusion makes radiant energy of stars
Fission makes radiant energy of stars & fusion splits nuclei
2
Which is an effect of lower levels of solar radiation striking Earth?
decreased carbon dioxide levels
increased phytoplankton activity
increased incidences of skin cancer
decreased rates of photosynthesis
3
Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?
using fueled machines that will turn the soil continuously
irrigating the soil with salty water
creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil
placing inorganic chemical fertilizers in the soil
4
If it is summer in the northern hemisphere, which statement is true?
It is also summer in the southern hemisphere
It is winter in the southern hemisphere .
The tilt of Earth's axis changed by 20 degrees.
Earth has reached its closest point to the sun .
5
Why would local government vote against large-scale development of buildings & roads in an area
It could form heat islands which impact the microclimate.
It could introduce an invasive species.
It could decrease average annual temperature in the area.
It could decrease acid rain production in the area.
6
Which is associated with an increase of chlorofluorocarbons in the environment?
an increase in health risks associated with UV radiation
an increase in ozone levels in the upper atmosphere
an increase in levels of methane gas in the atmosphere
an increase in acid precipitation
7
What occurs when a fast-moving cold air mass moves into a region of warmer, moist air?
light precipitation for a long time
heavy precipitation for a long time
heavy precipitation for a short time
light precipitation for a short time
8
Which consequence could an exponentially growing human population have on drinkable water?
increase the amount of water available for the population
decrease the amount of waste and pollutants in water supply
decrease the need of water for survival
increase cases of waterborne diseases
9
Which agent of erosion leads to the formation of sand dunes?
ice
water
gravity
wind
10
Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?
continual decrease in amount of water in Earth’s aquifers
continual increase in amount of pollution in the atmosphere
a continual decrease in the amount of rain forests on Earth
a continual increase in the number of people on Earth
11
Which factor would contribute the most to an urban city being an urban heat island?
construction of parking areas and road systems
installation of solar panels
building of rooftop gardens
planting trees and other vegetation
12
What is a disadvantage of adding large quantities of sand to the beach to stabilize shorelines?
It causes inland erosion.
It is a short-term solution.
It disrupts the vegetation along the coastline.
It prevents tides from occurring along the coastline.
13
In which way could the average increase in global temperature influence Earth?
increasing the formation of sea ice within polar regions
decreasing periods of drought in all water systems
decreasing erosion within coastal ecosystems
increasing amounts of flooding because of rising sea levels
14
Which is the most common contamination source for freshwater resources?
lightning
runoff
digging wells
melting of glaciersl
15
How can urbanization affect a local area?
It can increase the number of invasive species in an area.
It can decrease the risk of water pollution in an area.
It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.
It can decrease the need for natural resources in an area.
16
A local government is considering whether to build a dam. Which is an advantage of building it?
Decrease the accumulation of sediment in the water
Create a storage place for water
It is an inexpensive process.
Improve the natural habitat of plants and animals
17
Kudzu,brought to control erosion,prevents other plants getting sun.Which best describes kudzu?
abiotic factor
agent of erosion
noncompetitive species
invasive, nonnative species
18
Which natural phenomenon occurs as a result of Earth rotating on its axis?
day and night
deep ocean currents
movement of tectonic plates
seasonal changes
19
Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes and thaws. How does this affect the surface?
It changes the chemical composition of the rocks.
It limits the exposure of rocks to acid precipitation.
It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering.
It reduces the rates of soil formation.
20
What is the main cause of subsurface ocean currents that circulate warm water from the equator?
the rotation of Earth on its axis
differences in density of ocean water
movement of the jet stream
differences in the topography along the ocean floor
21
Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?
to increase stability of ecosystems when environment changes
to decrease the amount of global predator populations
to decrease the stability of major global ocean currents
to increase amount of nonrenewable resources in lithosphere
22
What is a likely consequence of increased drilling for freshwater along a coastal area?
an intrusion of salt water into aquifers
a decrease in salt concentration in inlet waterways
the loss of water resources in estuaries
destruction of estuaries because of increase in sea levels
23
Which will most likely occur before a volcanic eruption?
increase in earthquake activity
increase in mud flow
increase in lava flow
increase in acid rain production
24
Which is a biotic factor that could affect an ecosystem?
high levels of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere
large amounts of acid rain precipitation seeping into soil
dust storms moving through an ecosystem
bacteria harming the health of organisms in an ecosystem
25
How could the exponential growth of the human population impact regions throughout the world?
increase biodiversity of regions
decrease the demand for land within regions
decrease the amount of pollution in regions
increase the demand for food in regions
26
How could the removal of trees and other vegetation impact an environment?
by increasing transpiration
by increasing soil formation
by increasing oxygen production
by increasing erosion
27
Why are ocean currents important to coastal regions?
They can warm or cool the air temperatures .
They produce high and low tides.
They vertically push warm water & nutrients to the surface.
They increase the rate of precipitation.
28
Which would best aid a farmer in transitioning from conventional farming to sustainable farming
irrigate crops using well water
reduce the ratio of essential elements in the fertilizer
rotate the types of crops grown
plant only genetically modified crops
29
What lasting impact can upgrading purification &management systems have on available freshwater
It could cause a decrease in water demand.
It could cause an increase in waterborne diseases.
It could cause a decrease in the water levels.
It could cause an increase in the freshwater supply.
30
What change would best aid a conventional farmer making the transition to sustainable farming?
rotate the types of crops grown
plant only genetically modified crops
reduce the ratio of essential elements in fertilizer
irrigate crops using well water
31
Which is most likely a prevention strategy for flooding?
building waste landfills for metals and other contaminants
recycling bottled water containers
reducing water consumption
building artificial levees
32
Disease causes the rabbit population to decline drastically;how would it impact the community?
The mountain lion populations would decrease,
The fox population would increase.
The sparrow population would decrease.
The hawk population would increase.
33
In which atmospheric layer of Earth do thunderstorms occur?
stratosphere
thermosphere
mesosphere
troposphere
34
Which storm develops as air masses interact with warm water in the northwest Pacific Ocean?
monsoon
blizzard
tornado
typhoon
35
How could the introduction of a nonnative species of plant affect an ecosystem in NC?
Take over habitats of native plant species
Cause insects to destroy native plants
Pollinate native plants to produce disease-resistant species
Reduce competition for space and light with native species
36
Cracks in rocks widen as water in them freezes & thaws.How does this affect the Earth's surface
It changes the chemical composition of the rocks.
It limits the exposure of rocks to acid precipitation.
It exposes rocks to increased rates of erosion & weathering
It reduces the rates of soil formation.
37
Which would most likely cause a reduction in the amount of coal and natural gas on Earth?
decrease in the amount of water in Earth's aquifers
increase in number of people on Earth
increase the amount of pollution in Earth's atmosphere
decrease in the amount of rain forests on Earth
38
What long-term impact could the destruction of large areas of forests have on Earth?
decreased rates of erosion
increased atmospheric oxygen levels
decreased amounts of acid rain
increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
39
Which is an advantage of safely using uranium as an energy source rather than using coal?
Uranium is the most cost-efficient energy resource.
Uranium can be easily mined from deep within Earth.
Uranium reduces the amount of thermal pollution.
Uranium produces energy without polluting the atmosphere.
40
Which can lead to the depletion of the ozone layer of Earth?
vehicle exhaust
coal-fired power plants
aerosols
burning compost
41
Which statement best describes the motion of Earth around the sun?
Speed is constant regardless of distance from the sun.
Speed is constant because distance from sun stays the same.
Speed increases when Earth is closer to the sun.
Speed increases when Earth is farther from the sun.
42
Which is a farming technique that could improve the soil and the environment?
creating undisturbed layers of mulch in the soil
irrigating the soil with salty water
using fueled machines that will turn the soil continuously
placing inorganic chemical fertilizers in the soil
43
Why is it important to conserve the biodiversity of Earth?
decrease the stability of major global ocean currents
increase stability of ecosystems during environmental change
increase amount of nonrenewable resources located in earth
decrease the amount of global predator populations
44
Which will form when movement along a plate boundary forces a landmass to be pulled apart?
volcanic island arc
oceanic trench
continental mountains
continental drift
45
How does the tilt of the Earth’s axis affect the seasons?
by changing the amount of direct solar energy reaching Earth
by changing the speed of the rotation of Earth
by deflecting harmful rays of radiation emitted by the sun
by influencing rates of chemical reactions in the atmosphere
46
Which is a major source of air pollution created by humans?
industrial factories
hydroelectric plants
reforestation
nuclear power
47
Which best describes the relationship between carrying capacity and Earth's resources?
Population below carrying capacity increases disease
Population below carrying capacity decreases freshwater.
Population above carrying capacity decreases resources
Population above carrying capacity increases plant products.
48
How can urbanization affect a local area?
It can increase the risk of flooding in an area.
It can decrease the need for natural resources in an area.
It can decrease the risk of water pollution in an area.
It can increase the number of invasive species in an area.
49
Which example describes an abiotic factor that could impact the diversity of an ecosystem?
invasive species change the amount of available resources
increased acid rain changes the pH of the soil
competition for food can impact survival WITHIN a species
increased prey population affects predator population
50
Which would produce the most severe earthquake damage along the surface of Earth?
an earthquake with a shallow focus and a magnitude of 2.5
an earthquake with a shallow focus and a magnitude of 4.5
an earthquake with a deep focus and a magnitude of 4.5
an earthquake with a deep focus and a magnitude of 2.5
51
What is the main cause of Urban City X being an urban heat island?
the installation of solar panels
the building of rooftop gardens
the planting of trees and other vegetation
the construction of parking areas and road systems
52
Which is the most common contamination source for freshwater resources?
runoff
digging wells
melting of glaciers
linghtning
53
How can water be an agent for physical weathering?
seeps into soil & dissolves minerals in rocks
seeps into cracks of rocks & freezes
absorbs sulfur oxides & creates acid precipitation
absorbs gases from atmosphere & ground to react w/ minerals
54
Which natural phenomenon occurs as a result of Earth rotating on its axis?
day and night
deep ocean currents
movement of tectonic plates
seasonal changes
55
How does heat from the sun get to Earth?
by absorption, using primary waves to transfer heat
by conduction, using solids to transfer heat
by radiation, using electromagnetic waves to transfer heat
by convection, using liquids & gases to transfer heat
56
How could a decrease in burning fossil fuels impact the atmosphere?
decrease oxygen levels
increase sulfur dioxide levels
increase nitrogen levels
decrease carbon dioxide levels
57
Why do green plants require solar energy?
to release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
to decompose the dead or decaying remains of animals
to produce their own food
to absorb nitrogen into their roots
58
How could upgrading a community's water treatment system impact available freshwater?
It could cause an increase in the freshwater supply.
It could cause a decrease in water demand.
It could cause an increase in waterborne diseases.
It could cause a decrease in water levels.
59
Which could most likely have a lasting negative impact on the biodiversity of an area?
clear-cutting
a reduction in the use of fertilizers
selective cutting
an increase in plant populations
60
How could a long-term decrease in precipitation impact an area?
decrease amount of damage to crops
increase average water level of lakes
decrease amount of infiltration
increase amount of flooding
61
Subsurface ocean currents circulate warm water near equator to colder water. What is main cause
movement of the jet stream
differences in the topography along the ocean floor
the rotation of Earth on its axis
differences in density of ocean water
62
What long-term impact could the destruction of large areas of forests have on Earth?
increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
decreased amounts of acid rain
increased atmospheric oxygen levels
decreased rates of erosion
63
What is most responsible for the presence of groundwater in an area?
movement of water from a confined aquifer into surface water
the movement of water from streams and rivers to watersheds
the movement of surface water through impermeable rock
movement of surface water and precipitation thru soil & rock
64
What is most responsible for the presence of groundwater in an area?
movement of water from streams and rivers to watersheds
movement of water from a confined aquifer into surface water
movement of surface water through impermeable rock
movement of surface water & precipitation thru soil & rock
65
Which gas makes up the largest component of the Earth's atmosphere?
argon (Ar)
oxygen (O2)
nitrogen (N2)
carbon dioxide (CO2)
66
Which statement best describes the ozone layer of Earth?
Prevents formation of severe storms in the stratosphere
Increases the amount of nitrogen in troposphere of Earth.
Forms a magnetic field in the mesosphere of Earth.
Helps reduce amount of UV radiation reaching the Earth.
67
Which interaction contributes to the formation of hurricanes during the late summer?
ocean water currents and polar air masses
ocean water salinity and warm air masses
ocean water temperatures and warm air masses
ocean water salinity and ocean water density
68
How does a straight alignment between Earth, the sun, and the moon impact the tides on Earth?
It produces diurnal tides.
It produces the least change in high and low tides.
It produces the greatest change in high and low tides.
It produces semidiurnal tides.
69
How can oil and natural gas be extracted from the earth?
by removing limestone deposits from the ground
by drilling deep beneath the ground
by digging in areas of volcanoes
by strip-mining in mountainous areas
70
Which results from the unequal heating of the ocean water of Earth?
changes in ocean current patterns
unchanging climate for all regions on Earth
a constant sea level
changes in tidal patterns
71
How are aquatic environments affected by factories dumping heated water into lakes and rivers?
increases the life expectancy of animals
reduces the number of aquatic species
reduces the decomposition rate of organisms
increases the amount of dissolved oxygen
72
How do air masses generally move?
from high altitude to low altitude
from low humidity to high humidity
from high pressure to low pressure
from low temperature to high temperature
73
How could the introduction of nonnative species of plant affect an ecosystem in North Carolina?
Causes some insect species to destroy native plant species.
Pollinates native plant, producing disease-resistant plants.
Takes over the habitats of the native plant species.
Reduces competition for space and light with native plants.
74
How does the tilt of the Earth's axis affect the seasons?
deflects harmful rays of radiation emitted by the sun
influences the rate of chemical reactions in the atmosphere
changes the speed of the rotation of Earth
changes the amount of solar energy reaching Earth's surface
75
Which will most likely form when movement on a plate boundary forces a landmass to pull apart?
continental mountains
oceanic trench
volcanic island arc
continental rift
76
Which is the best way to conserve worldwide freshwater resources?
build more roads and highways for cars and trucks
use more efficient irrigation techniques
increase the amount of land used to raise cattle
develop more modern coal-powered plants
77
How do weathering and erosion affect Earth's surface?
Both force tectonic plates to move across the ocean floor.
Both cause mountain ranges to become taller.
Both break down rocks and create new soil.
Both cause sedimentary rocks to form igneous rocks.
78
Which is associated with an increase of chlorofluorocarbons in the environment?
an increase in acid precipitation
an increase in levels of methane gas in the atmosphere
an increase in ozone levels in the upper atmosphere
an increase in health risks associated with UV radiation
79
Which is an effect of lower levels of solar radiation striking Earth?
decreased rates of photosynthesis
decreased carbon dioxide levels
increased incidences of skin cancer
increased phytoplankton activity
80
How is climate different from weather?
Climate affects daily plans; weather affects seasonal plans
Climate based on several years; weather based on day-to-day
Climate is on a given date; weather is during a given season
Climate constantly changes; weather changes slowly over time
81
What information can be learned from a graph showing time differences between P waves & S waves
epicenter of an earthquake
magnitude of an earthquake
intensity of an earthquake
duration of an earthquake
82
Which structure can form as a result of a divergent plate boundary?
continental volcanic arc, due to collision of two plates
continental mountain, due to collision of two plates
ocean trench, due to separation of two plates
mid-ocean ridge, due to separation of two plates
83
A rural forest receives a lot of rain in a short time. What would most likely cause flooding?
if the area has a large uncharged aquifer beneath it
if the ground of the area is already saturated with water
if the ground of the area is mostly sandy soil
if the water level in area is below the zone of saturation
84
Which storm most likely develops as air masses interact with warm water in NW Pacific Ocean?
monsoon
blizzard
typhoon
tornado
85
What is formed when impermeable rock forces groundwater laterally & it emerges onto the surface
a geyser
a spring
a well
an aquifer