Science STAAR Review

What is the first step in the scientific method?

• Form a hypothesis immediately

• Analyze the data

• Ask a question or identify a problem

• Conduct an experiment

Answer explanation

The first step in the scientific method is to ask a question or identify a problem.

Which of the following is an abiotic factor in an ecosystem?

• Rain

• Plants

• Wind

• Sunlight

Answer explanation

Sunlight is an abiotic factor in an ecosystem as it is a non-living component that influences living organisms.

What is the formula to calculate speed?

• Speed = Time / Distance

• Speed = Distance / Time

• Speed = Distance x Time

• Speed = Distance + Time

Answer explanation

The correct formula to calculate speed is Speed = Distance / Time. This formula represents the rate of change of distance with respect to time.

How is energy transferred in a food chain?

• Through gravitational pull

• Through photosynthesis

• Through evaporation

• Through the consumption of organisms by other organisms

Answer explanation

Energy is transferred in a food chain through the consumption of organisms by other organisms.

What instrument is used to measure air pressure?

• Thermometer

• Hygrometer

• Anemometer

• Barometer

Answer explanation

A barometer is used to measure air pressure. It is specifically designed for this purpose and is the correct instrument for this task.

Explain the difference between potential and kinetic energy.

• Potential energy is the energy of motion, while kinetic energy is stored energy.

• Potential energy is stored energy, while kinetic energy is energy in motion.

• Potential energy is the energy of position, while kinetic energy is energy in motion.

• Potential energy is energy in motion, while kinetic energy is stored energy.

Answer explanation

Potential energy is stored energy, while kinetic energy is energy in motion.

In which ecosystem would you find a coral reef?

• Forest ecosystem

• Tundra ecosystem

• Desert ecosystem

• Marine ecosystem

Answer explanation

Coral reefs are found in the marine ecosystem, specifically in warm, shallow waters. They are diverse underwater ecosystems that support a wide range of marine life.

What is the force that pulls objects towards the center of the Earth?

• magnetism

• attraction

• repulsion

• gravity

Answer explanation

Gravity is the force that pulls objects towards the center of the Earth.

How does the tilt of the Earth affect weather patterns?

• The tilt of the Earth affects weather patterns by changing the rotation speed of the planet.

• The tilt of the Earth affects weather patterns by altering the composition of the atmosphere.

• The tilt of the Earth affects weather patterns by influencing the distribution of solar energy across the planet.

• The tilt of the Earth affects weather patterns by causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Answer explanation

The tilt of the Earth affects weather patterns by influencing the distribution of solar energy across the planet.

What is the role of a producer in an ecosystem?

• Producers create food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, providing energy for the ecosystem.

• Producers are responsible for maintaining the predator-prey balance in the ecosystem.

• Producers primarily rely on other organisms for their energy needs in the ecosystem.

• Producers consume food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, depleting energy in the ecosystem.

Answer explanation

Producers create food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, providing energy for the ecosystem.