Elevate Science Earth Natural Hazards

A scientist used a model to predict the path of a hurricane. The hurricane followed a similar path but did not follow the exact path that was predicted. How does this example demonstrate a limitation of models?

• Models cannot be used to predict things

• Models cannot account for how every factor may suddenly change.

• Models can be used to predict weather events before the event occurs.

• Models can be used to only show physical structures, not events such as hurricanes.

During the year 2003, the number of earthquakes that occurred was higher than usual. The map shows the locations of some of these earthquakes.

Which question does the information on this map help answer?

• How often do earthquakes happen?

• When will the next earthquake happen?

• Where are earthquakes likely in the future?

• What will be the strength of the next earthquake?

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

A hurricane destroyed a coastal town. Afterward, the town was rebuilt. Which term describes the rebuilding process after a natural disaster?

• response

• recovery

• mitigation

• preparation

Scientists and engineers work together to try to reduce the damage from natural hazards. Which term is used to describe this process?

• mitigation

• technology

• scientific method

• controlling variables

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Engineers have been asked to develop a plan to reduce the effects of hurricanes on a coastal community. Which is the first step engineers should take when developing a plan to reduce the effects of a natural hazard?

• identify a need

• propose a solution

• evaluate a solution

• determine criteria and constraints

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

Engineers are designing a bridge that will better withstand earthquake forces. What is the process called when engineers use a computer to see what happens to their design during an earthquake?

• variables

• modeling

• prediction

• navigation

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4

A scientist is constructing a device that will predict exactly where hurricanes will travel. This device could save many lives but will be extremely expensive. Which term describes the high cost of this device?

• benefit

• criteria

• constraint

• technology

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

A hurricane was predicted and people were asked to evacuate from an area. The area experienced a strong hurricane. Which description of damage is most typical for this type of natural disaster?

• lightning damaged many buildings

• air quality became unsafe for many people

• buildings and bridges collapsed without warning

• many structures were damaged by flooding and wind

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Alicia wants to buy a house. She does not want to buy a house in an area where earthquakes and flooding are common. Which information would help her most in choosing where to buy a house?

• a map that includes elevation of land and location of faults

• a map that shows typical rainfall and location of volcanic activity

• a graph of the number of earthquakes and floods in the last ten years

• a graph of how much damage is caused by earthquakes compared with floods

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Natural hazards can cause a variety of problems. Which type of destruction can be caused only by volcanic activity?

Choose the correct answer.

• damage from flooding and wind

• erosion of land along coasts and rivers

• sudden crumbling of buildings and chimneys

• areas being covered by ash and concrete-like mudslides