Exploring Environmental Science Concepts

What is the main gas responsible for the greenhouse effect on Earth?

• Oxygen

• Carbon dioxide

• Nitrogen

• Argon

Answer explanation

The main gas responsible for the greenhouse effect on Earth is carbon dioxide. It traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing significantly to global warming, unlike oxygen, nitrogen, and argon, which do not have this effect.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

Which process in the carbon cycle involves plants taking in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis

• Decomposition

• Combustion

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis is the process where plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into glucose using sunlight, making it the correct answer in the carbon cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

What is an invasive species?

• A native species that is endangered.

• A non-native species that causes harm to the environment.

• A species that only lives in water.

• A species that is extinct.

Answer explanation

An invasive species is defined as a non-native species that causes harm to the environment, disrupting ecosystems and threatening native species. The other options do not accurately describe this concept.

Which of the following is an example of an invasive species?

• Bald eagle

• Zebra mussel

• Monarch butterfly

• Redwood tree

Answer explanation

The zebra mussel is an invasive species that disrupts local ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources. In contrast, the bald eagle, monarch butterfly, and redwood tree are native species.

What is the primary cause of glacier melting in recent decades?

• Increased volcanic activity

• Global warming

• Decreased rainfall

• Plate tectonics

Answer explanation

The primary cause of glacier melting in recent decades is global warming, which leads to rising temperatures and accelerated ice loss. Other factors like volcanic activity and rainfall changes have less impact on this phenomenon.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

Which of the following is NOT a greenhouse gas?

• Methane

• Nitrous oxide

• Oxygen

• Water vapor

Answer explanation

Oxygen is not a greenhouse gas; it does not trap heat in the atmosphere. In contrast, methane, nitrous oxide, and water vapor are all greenhouse gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect.

Which process releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Nitrogen fixation

• Transpiration

Answer explanation

Respiration is the process by which organisms convert glucose and oxygen into energy, releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct back into the atmosphere. In contrast, photosynthesis absorbs CO2.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS1-7

NGSS.HS-LS2-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-5

What is the main effect of the greenhouse effect on Earth's climate?

• Cooling of the planet

• Warming of the planet

• Increased rainfall

• Decreased sunlight

Answer explanation

The greenhouse effect traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in Earth's average temperature. This results in the warming of the planet, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

Which of the following best describes a glacier?

• A large body of saltwater

• A slowly moving mass of ice

• A type of volcano

• A sand dune

Answer explanation

A glacier is best described as a slowly moving mass of ice, formed from compacted snow over time. It differs from saltwater bodies, volcanoes, and sand dunes, which are distinct geological features.

Which of the following processes in the carbon cycle adds carbon to the atmosphere?

• Photosynthesis

• Combustion

• Absorption by oceans

• Sedimentation

Answer explanation

Combustion is a process that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels and biomass. In contrast, photosynthesis absorbs carbon, while absorption by oceans and sedimentation remove carbon from the atmosphere.