Science benchmark study guide part 3

What is the primary component of the atmosphere that supports life?

• Nitrogen

• Carbon dioxide

• Methane

• Argon

Answer explanation

Nitrogen is the primary component of Earth's atmosphere, making up about 78%. It is essential for life as it is a key element in amino acids and proteins, which are vital for all living organisms.

What is one of the main causes of air pollution?

• Plant growth

• Industrial emissions

• Ocean currents

• Soil erosion

Answer explanation

One of the main causes of air pollution is industrial emissions, which release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere from factories and power plants, significantly impacting air quality.

How does global warming affect sea levels?

• It decreases sea levels

• It has no effect

• It causes sea levels to rise

• It stabilizes sea levels

Answer explanation

Global warming causes polar ice to melt and seawater to expand, leading to rising sea levels. Therefore, the correct answer is that it causes sea levels to rise.

What is a major consequence of a volcanic eruption?

• Increased wildlife

• Destruction of habitats and ashfall

• Reduction in earthquakes

• Improved air quality

Answer explanation

A major consequence of a volcanic eruption is the destruction of habitats and ashfall, which can devastate local ecosystems and affect air quality, making this the correct choice.

What is the primary gas responsible for acid rain?

• Oxygen

• Nitrogen

• Sulfur dioxide

• Carbon dioxide

Answer explanation

The primary gas responsible for acid rain is sulfur dioxide. When released into the atmosphere, it reacts with water vapor to form sulfuric acid, leading to acid rain, which can harm ecosystems and structures.

What natural disaster involves a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust?

• Tsunami

• Earthquake

• Hurricane

• Drought

Answer explanation

An earthquake is a natural disaster characterized by a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, resulting in seismic waves. This distinguishes it from tsunamis, hurricanes, and droughts, which have different causes.

What is a common effect of prolonged drought conditions?

• Increased plant growth

• Water shortages

• Excessive rainfall

• Flooding

Answer explanation

Prolonged drought conditions lead to reduced water availability, causing water shortages. This negatively impacts agriculture, ecosystems, and human water supply, making 'Water shortages' the correct answer.

How do high-pressure systems generally affect weather?

• They bring cloudy and stormy weather

• They bring clear and calm weather

• They cause tornadoes

• They have no effect

Answer explanation

High-pressure systems are associated with descending air, which inhibits cloud formation and leads to clear skies. This results in calm weather conditions, making 'They bring clear and calm weather' the correct choice.

What is the primary function of the ozone layer?

• To trap heat

• To absorb UV radiation

• To provide oxygen

• To produce weather

Answer explanation

The primary function of the ozone layer is to absorb UV radiation from the sun, protecting living organisms on Earth from harmful effects. It does not trap heat, provide oxygen, or produce weather.

What is a characteristic of a blizzard?

• Excessive heat

• Strong winds and heavy snow

• Heavy rain and thunder

• High humidity

Answer explanation

A blizzard is characterized by strong winds and heavy snow, which can create dangerous conditions. The other options, such as excessive heat and heavy rain, do not describe a blizzard.