Review 2: Exploring Earth's Systems and Resources

What is the outermost layer of the Earth called?

• Inner core

• Outer core

• Mantle

• Crust

Answer explanation

The outermost layer of the Earth is called the crust. It is the solid surface layer where we live, while the inner and outer cores, as well as the mantle, are located beneath it.

Which of the following is a component of the hydrosphere?

• Mountains

• Rivers

• Clouds

• Soil

Answer explanation

Rivers are a key component of the hydrosphere, which encompasses all water bodies on Earth. Mountains, clouds, and soil are not classified as components of the hydrosphere.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

How does an igneous rock form?

• From the cooling and solidification of magma or lava

• From the compression of sediments

• From the transformation of existing rock types

• From the evaporation of water

Answer explanation

Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. This process distinguishes them from sedimentary rocks, which form from sediment compression, and metamorphic rocks, which arise from existing rock transformations.

Which of the following is a reason why resource management is important?

• To increase global energy poverty

• To reduce malnutrition

• To increase air pollution

• To deplete water resources

Answer explanation

Resource management is crucial for reducing malnutrition by ensuring that food and nutritional resources are used efficiently and effectively, thereby improving access to adequate nutrition for populations in need.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is one way technology can help manage energy resources?

• By increasing energy waste

• By improving energy efficiency

• By reducing energy production

• By eliminating energy resources

Answer explanation

Technology can help manage energy resources by improving energy efficiency, which reduces waste and optimizes usage, leading to better resource management. This is a crucial step towards sustainable energy practices.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

NGSS.MS-ETS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS3-3

Identify the layer of Earth that is composed mostly of liquid iron and nickel.

• Crust

• Mantle

• Outer core

• Inner core

Answer explanation

The outer core is the layer of Earth that is primarily composed of liquid iron and nickel. This liquid state is crucial for generating Earth's magnetic field through the movement of these metals.

Which system includes all living organisms on Earth?

• Atmosphere

• Geosphere

• Hydrosphere

• Biosphere

Answer explanation

The biosphere encompasses all living organisms on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It is the global sum of all ecosystems, distinguishing it from the atmosphere, geosphere, and hydrosphere, which include non-living components.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Describe how sedimentary rocks are formed.

• By the cooling of magma

• By the accumulation and compaction of sediments

• By the transformation of existing rocks under heat and pressure

• By the evaporation of water

Answer explanation

Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and compaction of sediments over time. This process involves layers of materials settling and being compressed, which distinguishes them from igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Explain how conservation can help manage water resources.

• By increasing water pollution

• By reducing water usage and waste

• By depleting water sources

• By increasing water consumption

Answer explanation

Conservation helps manage water resources by reducing water usage and waste, ensuring that available water is used efficiently and sustainably, which ultimately protects and preserves water sources for future generations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Differentiate between the geosphere and the atmosphere.

• The geosphere includes air, while the atmosphere includes rocks.

• The geosphere includes rocks and soil, while the atmosphere includes gases.

• The geosphere includes water, while the atmosphere includes living organisms.

• The geosphere includes gases, while the atmosphere includes water.

Answer explanation

The correct choice states that the geosphere includes rocks and soil, while the atmosphere consists of gases. This accurately reflects the definitions of both spheres, distinguishing solid Earth materials from the gaseous layer surrounding it.