Grade 10 PISA

Question 1: Ocean Pollution and pH Changes 🌊

Scenario:
Many industrial and agricultural activities release gases into the air. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is absorbed by seawater, causing ocean acidification. Scientists measure the pH of ocean water over time to track changes.

What happens to ocean life as the pH decreases due to CO₂ absorption?

• A) Marine organisms with calcium carbonate shells become weaker.

• B) Fish start producing more oxygen in the water.

• C) Ocean water becomes more basic, improving coral growth.

Question 2: UAE Desalination Plants and Water Purification 🚰

Scenario:
The UAE depends on desalination plants to provide fresh drinking water. One of the methods used is distillation, where seawater is heated until it evaporates, leaving behind the salt.

What principle allows desalination by distillation?

• A) Salt dissolves in water at high temperatures.

• B) Water boils at a lower temperature than salt and evaporates first.

• C) Salt particles become lighter when heated and float away.

Question 3: Air Pollution and Catalytic Converters 🚗

Scenario:
In large cities like Dubai, cars release nitrogen oxides (NOx), contributing to smog. Catalytic converters in cars help reduce pollution by changing harmful gases into less harmful substances.

Which chemical reaction occurs in a catalytic converter?

• A) Carbon monoxide (CO) is converted to carbon dioxide (CO₂).

• B) Oxygen gas (O₂) is changed into nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).

• C) Nitrogen (N₂) is broken down into individual atoms.

Question 4: Recycling Aluminum Cans and Energy Conservation ♻️

Scenario:
Recycling aluminum uses only 5% of the energy needed to extract aluminum from ore. This is why recycling programs are encouraged worldwide.

Why does recycling aluminum save energy?

• A) Recycling eliminates the need for high-temperature electrolysis.

• B) Aluminum in cans is heavier than aluminum in ores.

• C) Aluminum is not reactive, so it doesn’t need refining.

Question 5: Solar Panels and Energy Transfer in the UAE ☀️

Scenario:
In the UAE, solar panels are widely used to generate electricity. These panels work based on the photoelectric effect, where sunlight is converted into electrical energy.

Which statement best explains how solar panels generate electricity?

• A) Light energy excites electrons, allowing electricity to flow.

• B) Sunlight creates heat, which powers electric generators.

• C) Electrons in silicon absorb heat and become heavier.

Question 6: Renewable Energy Sources and Wind Turbines 🌬️

Scenario:
Wind turbines convert kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical energy, which can then be transformed into electricity. This process is crucial for sustainable energy production.

What principle allows wind turbines to generate electricity?

• A) Wind energy is converted directly into thermal energy.

• B) Kinetic energy from the wind turns the blades, generating electricity.

• C) Wind pressure compresses air, which powers generators.

Question 7: Plastic Pollution and Marine Life 🐢

Scenario:
Plastic waste in oceans poses a significant threat to marine life. Sea turtles, for example, often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, leading to ingestion and health issues.

What impact does plastic ingestion have on sea turtles?

• C) It helps them swim faster in the water.

• A) It improves their digestion and nutrient absorption.

• B) It can cause blockages and internal injuries.

Question 8: Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change 🌍

Scenario:
Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Understanding their sources is essential for climate action.

Which of the following is a major source of methane emissions?

• C) Deforestation and land-use changes.

• B) Agricultural practices, especially livestock farming.

• A) Burning fossil fuels for energy.

Question 9: Wind Energy and Environmental Impact 🌬️

Scenario:
Wind energy is a renewable resource that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Wind farms are increasingly being installed in various regions to harness this energy.

What is a primary environmental benefit of using wind energy?

• C) It generates noise pollution that affects wildlife.

• B) It requires large amounts of water for cooling.

• A) It produces no air pollutants during operation.

Question 10: Solar Energy Storage and Batteries 🔋

Scenario:
In the UAE, solar energy is harnessed during the day and stored in batteries for use at night. This technology is essential for maximizing the efficiency of solar power.

What is the primary function of batteries in solar energy systems?

• B) To store electrical energy for later use.

• A) To convert solar energy into thermal energy.

• C) To increase the voltage of solar panels.