TEST NAME: EARTH SYSTEMS
TEST ID: 194755
GRADE: 08
SUBJECT: Life and Physical Sciences
TEST CATEGORY: My Classroom
EARTH SYSTEMS
Page 1 of 63
Student: Class:
Date:
1.
Which is one way people can help prevent the pollution of lakes and
rivers?
A.
by controlling soil erosion around lakes and rivers
B.
by clearing land around lakes and rivers to build homes
C.
by limiting the amount of fish caught in lakes and rivers
D.
by creating hiking and biking trails along lakes and rivers
2.
Which dissolved gases are most needed by plants and animals living in
the ocean?
A.
nitrogen and oxygen
B.
oxygen and carbon dioxide
C.
carbon dioxide and nitrogen
D.
carbon monoxide and nitrogen
3.
Which is the most abundant freshwater resource in North Carolina?
A.
estuaries
B.
icebergs
C.
oceans
D.
rivers
4.
Where does most fresh water exist?
A.
ice caps, lakes, and streams
B.
glaciers, rivers, and oceans
C.
aquifers, ice caps, and glaciers
EARTH SYSTEMS
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5.
Which is true?
A.
Ice caps consist mostly of salt water.
B.
The ocean consists mostly of freshwater.
C.
Rivers and streams transport nutrients, salts, sediments, and
pollutants from watersheds to estuaries, and to the ocean.
6.
How might fertilizer runoff from a soybean field affect the quality of
water in the farm pond?
A.
It increases the pH level.
B.
It decreases the overall water temperature.
C.
It promotes algae growth, which lowers the oxygen level in the pond.
D.
It decreases the turbidity, which lowers the amount of particles in the
pond.
7.
If Earth’s climate continues to become warmer over the next 50 years,
how would this impact river basins?
A.
decline in water quality
B.
decrease in water supply
C.
increase in sediments
8.
Which man­made problems are indicated by decreasing water levels?
A.
too few farms and farm animals
B.
rising water and soil pollution levels
C.
diversion of rainfall and river water to treatment plants
D.
water overuse by cities and wasteful irrigation methods
9.
Which explains the true relationship between carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere and the oceans?
A.
Ocean waters can hold small amounts of carbon dioxide.
B.
Cooler waters release excess carbon dioxide. C.
Warmer waters release excess carbon dioxide.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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10. The excessive use of nitrogen­based fertilizers causes runoff that increases the nitrogen content of lakes
and bays. These nitrogen compounds directly affect the aquatic ecosystems by
A.
interfering with the water cycle.
B.
decreasing the predator population.
C.
increasing the rate of algae growth.
D.
causing aquatic animals to grow larger.
11.
How is satellite imagery beneficial when studying the hydrosphere?
A.
It allows scientists to sample the surface of the ocean floor.
B.
It allows scientists to explore the deepest parts of ocean water.
C.
It allows scientists to collect large amounts of bioindicator data.
D.
It allows scientists to obtain maximum coverage of the hydrosphere.
12.
Which would most likely happen if too many nutrients entered an
estuary?
A.
Nutrients would be used up by the fish and plants, keeping the
estuary in balance.
B.
Algal blooms would lower dissolved oxygen levels, causing fish to
suffocate.
C.
Algal blooms would decrease, leaving few food resources for fish.
D.
Nutrients would sink to the bottom, increasing soil deposition.
13.
Which contains most of the water on Earth?
A.
aquifers
B.
oceans
C.
ponds
14.
Which would a scientist expect to find in a lake that experienced a
sudden increase in nitrate levels?
A.
an increase in temperature
B.
an increased number of fish
C.
an increase in dissolved oxygen
D.
an increased amount of algae and aquatic plants
EARTH SYSTEMS
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15.
Which is an incorrect order of the water cycle?
A.
evaporation, condensation, precipitation
B.
evaporation, precipitation, condensation
C.
precipitation, evaporation, condensation
16.
How does the use of a pH meter help monitor the hydrosphere?
A.
by indicating whether the water is too acidic or basic
B.
by indicating if there is too much sediment in the water
C.
by indicating whether microorganisms are living in the water
D.
by indicating if there is enough dissolved oxygen in the water
17.
What land use would be the best choice for watershed drainage?
A.
mall
B.
wetland
C.
recreational area
18.
Of the 74% of Earth’s surface that is covered in water, which contains
the most water?
A.
lakes
B.
rivers
C.
oceans
D.
streams
19.
Which would be the most likely cause of large numbers of fish dying in a
stream?
A.
a lack of nitrogen
B.
high levels of mercury
C.
decreased carbon dioxide
D.
low dissolved oxygen concentration
EARTH SYSTEMS
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20.
A scientist collected water quality data in a protected estuary over time.
The scientist measures a nitrate level of 6 ppm, and a dissolved oxygen
level of 2 mg/L. Which would the scientist most likely conclude about
this site?
A.
The nitrate and oxygen levels are normal.
B.
The nitrate levels are high, and the oxygen levels are low.
C.
The nitrate levels are high, and the oxygen levels are healthy.
D.
The nitrate levels are low, and the oxygen levels are unhealthy.
21.
How do nitrate levels affect the health of a water system?
A.
As nitrates decrease, there is an increase in plant growth.
B.
Nitrates cause bacteria to consume large protein molecules.
C.
Nitrates cause aquatic organisms to die due to oxygen depletion.
D.
As nitrates increase, there is an increase in dissolved oxygen levels.
22.
Where is most of Earth’s available freshwater stored?
A.
underground
B.
the atmosphere
C.
lakes and rivers
D.
ice caps and glaciers
23.
Which best describes freshwater on Earth?
A.
About two thirds of Earth’s freshwater is in the ocean.
B.
About half of Earth’s freshwater is considered polluted.
C.
Most of Earth’s freshwater is stored in rivers or streams.
D.
Most of Earth’s freshwater is stored in ice caps and glaciers.
24.
How does overharvesting of oysters impact the water quality of an
estuary?
A.
increase in pollution usually consumed by oysters
B.
decrease in CO2 levels due to increase in pollution
C.
increase in organic matter usually filtered by oysters
EARTH SYSTEMS
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25.
How could government laws have the most direct impact on water
quality?
A.
provide rewards to recycle
B.
provide rewards to use solar power
C.
provide rewards to use liquid­absorbing surfaces
26.
Which human action would most likely increase the nutrients in an
ecosystem?
A.
building a rock wall
B.
fertilizing a cornfield
C.
watering a flower bed
D.
pulling weeds from a garden
27.
Why do lakes, rivers, and streams most likely require more treatment
than groundwater?
A.
They are classified as surface water resources.
B.
They experience fewer governmental regulations.
C.
They are exposed to a greater variety of contaminants.
28.
If a large amount of fertilizer enters a lake, which will most likely
happen?
A.
The fish population in the lake will increase.
B.
The temperature of the lake water will increase.
C.
The number of fish dying in the lake will increase.
D.
The available food supply for the fish in the lake will increase.
29.
Where is the majority of Earth’s freshwater found?
A.
polar ice caps
B.
rivers
C.
ponds
D.
lakes
EARTH SYSTEMS
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30.
Which best explains why water quality standards are necessary?
A.
to maintain clear water
B.
to maintain fresh­tasting water
C.
to prevent water from having any trace of pollutants
D.
to prevent water from having excessive levels of pollutants
31.
Fish, flies, and algae are bioindicators known to exist in a certain North
Carolina river. Recently a chemical company was built upstream. Which
environmental factor is most likely measured by these bioindicators in
this river?
A.
light
B.
temperature
C.
dissolved oxygen
32.
Approximately what percentage of the hydrosphere is represented by
the oceans on Earth?
A.
30%
B.
70%
C.
87%
D.
97%
33.
Scientists use a variety of methods to monitor the ocean. Buoys are used
to collect data at the surface. Which is most effective in monitoring
large areas of the ocean floor?
A.
satellites
B.
submarines
C.
weather balloons
D.
remote­operated vehicles
EARTH SYSTEMS
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34.
Which is most important for protecting the quality of a local river basin?
A.
reducing industrial activities in rural areas
B.
planting and protecting plants around streams and lakes
C.
reducing recreational activities around streams and lakes
D.
planting and protecting plants in neighborhoods and parks
35.
Which would least likely be a water cycle function of a watershed?
A.
collects rainfall water
B.
discharges water as runoff
C.
provides a habitat for many organisms
36.
Which best explains why a scientist would use nets to capture and count
organisms in a river?
A.
to measure pH
B.
to measure turbidity
C.
to measure biodiversity
D.
to measure temperature
37. A family owns a vacation cabin located on a hillside below a gas station with a leaking gasoline storage
tank. In which situation is the drinking water for the cabin most likely to be contaminated?
A.
Water is pumped to the cabin from a distant reservoir.
B.
The family brings several gallons of bottled spring water.
C.
Groundwater is drawn up in buckets from a private well.
D.
The family collects water in rain barrels left in the open air.
38.
What does pH measure?
A.
acidity/alkalinity
B.
dissolved oxygen
C.
nutrient level
D.
turbidity
EARTH SYSTEMS
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39.
A local farm experiences significant drought over a 2­year period. A
temporary solution for the lack of water is to dig another well closer to
the fields to water crops. Two years before, in a similar situation, the
water table was reached at 15 feet below the ground. Which is necessary
for the well to supply water to the crops?
A.
The well needs to be dug to 13.5 feet.
B.
It is not necessary to find the water table when digging a well.
C.
The well should be dug to more than 15 feet to find the water table.
40.
Rainbow trout are found in mountain streams and are sensitive to
changes in their habitat. Which would be the best description for the use
of rainbow trout in water quality testing?
A.
biological indicator
B.
invasive species
C.
nitrates
41.
Which type of ocean water would contain more dissolved oxygen?
A.
cold ocean water in polar regions
B.
warm ocean water in tropical regions
C.
temperate ocean water in subtropical regions
42.
Which type of precipitation most often soaks the ground and refills
groundwater?
A.
a violent hail storm
B.
a heavy morning fog
C.
a gentle, long­lasting rain
D.
a sudden, fast­moving thunderstorm
43.
Which best explains why water may be treated differently in different
communities?
A.
Some communities avoid using groundwater.
B.
Groundwater requires more expensive treatments.
C.
Environmental factors vary between communities.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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44.
How do algal blooms affect the health of a water system?
A.
They photosynthesize and increase the amounts of dissolved oxygen,
decreasing the water quality.
B.
They photosynthesize and decrease the amounts of dissolved oxygen,
increasing the water quality.
C.
They can block sunlight and their decomposition decreases dissolved
oxygen in the water, decreasing the water quality.
45.
How does buoy technology assist coastlines worldwide?
A.
It detects tsunami intensity, allowing for early evacuation of
coastlines.
B.
It measures temperature, precipitation and winds off shore to assist
in weather predictions for the coastline.
C.
It detects the level of destruction of hurricanes allowing for early
evacuation and preparation for high winds.
46.
Which evidence best supports that there are a variety of nutrients in
Earth’s oceans?
A.
Coral can be found in warm waters.
B.
Freshwater rivers drain into Earth’s oceans.
C.
Some marine organisms migrate with the seasons.
D.
A wide range of organisms is sustained in Earth’s oceans.
47.
Which best describes the types of organisms found in estuaries?
A.
They can survive in salt water.
B.
They are only found in freshwater.
C.
They cannot tolerate brackish water.
D.
They tolerate both freshwater and salt water.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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48.
Which represents the distribution of water on Earth?
A.
97% freshwater, 3% salt water
B.
3% freshwater, 97% salt water
C.
71% freshwater, 29% salt water
D.
29% freshwater, 71% salt water
49.
Which human activity has the most negative impact on water quality?
A.
agriculture
B.
flushing toilets
C.
washing clothes
D.
recreational boating
50.
What does a pH of 7 most likely indicate about the water quality?
A.
The water is a strong base.
B.
The water is highly acidic.
C.
The water is toxic to drink.
D.
The water is safe to drink.
51.
Why is freshwater in short supply on Earth?
A.
Most of it is frozen.
B.
Most of it is polluted.
C.
Most of it is in the atmosphere.
D.
Most of it is trapped underground.
52.
Which best describes the process by which water from the ocean enters
the atmosphere?
A.
infiltration
B.
precipitation
C.
evaporation
D.
condensation
EARTH SYSTEMS
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53.
Which statement best compares the amount of water present on Earth
today with the amount present millions of years ago?
A.
There is slightly more water on Earth today.
B.
There is significantly less water on Earth today.
C.
There is significantly more water on Earth today.
D.
There is about the same amount of water on Earth today.
54.
Where would the safest and least polluted water most likely occur?
A.
aquifer
B.
large river
C.
mountaintop snow
55.
What would most likely happen to the entire ocean food web if plankton
were not available?
A.
All organisms that live in the ocean would not survive.
B.
The organisms would adapt and find another source of food.
C.
Only whales and other large ocean mammals would be affected.
56.
Where is most freshwater located?
A.
in lakes
B.
on ice caps
C.
in groundwater
57.
Why would construction of a dam on a river be a concern to local
communities?
A.
Dams harm ecosystems surrounding the river.
B.
Building a dam kills many organisms native to the river.
C.
Distribution of water above and below the dam will change.
D.
Only a small amount of electricity can be generated by a dam.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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58.
Which best describes how marine ecosystems are so unique?
A.
Marine ecosystems are home to diverse biological life.
B.
Marine ecosystems have a wide range in amounts of salinity.
C.
Marine ecosystems rely on many different abiotic and biotic
factors like dissolved gases and phytoplankton for survival.
59.
Which act of stewardship most directly impacts the water cycle?
A.
walking to work or school
B.
recycling aluminum soda cans
C.
limiting shower time to 10 minutes
D.
carpooling to work during the week
60.
Which water quality data most likely indicates eutrophication?
A.
pH level
B.
turbidity
C.
temperature
D.
nutrient level
61.
Which is most likely the largest contributor to a decrease in North
Carolina’s water availability?
A.
evaporation
B.
global warming
C.
increase in population
D.
expansion of agricultural areas
62.
Why are estuaries often valued as the center of human coastal
communities?
A.
Estuaries create mild habitats for deep sea life.
B.
Estuaries enhance marine biology resources for the future.
C.
Estuaries are needed to filter pollution out of ocean water.
D.
Estuaries provide a place for people to live, fish, and swim.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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63.
In which way could humans best prevent a nonpoint source of water
pollution in North Carolina?
A.
reduce the application of fertilizer in fields
B.
regulate waste discharge from an industrial factory
C.
monitor the average high temperatures in the area
D.
maintain ships to prevent the likelihood of oil spills
64.
Which characteristic distinguishes an estuary from other bodies of water?
A.
plant life
B.
animal life
C.
salinity level
D.
dissolved oxygen
65.
Which best allows humans to utilize water as a resource?
A.
pollution laws
B.
local geography
C.
energy conservation
66.
How does burning fossil fuels on land impact CO2 levels in the ocean?
A.
If oceans absorb too much CO2 from the atmosphere, then the water
increases in turbidity, harming marine life.
B.
As oceans absorb CO2 gases from the atmosphere, their dissolved
oxygen levels decrease, harming marine life.
C.
Oceans absorb CO2 gases until levels become too high, then they can
no longer be processed by the ocean and become harmful to marine
life.
67.
Which best describes the role of the water cycle?
A.
circulates existing water on Earth
B.
reduces pollution in most of the water
C.
increases usable supply of Earth’s water
EARTH SYSTEMS
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68.
Which best explains the poor productivity of the open ocean?
A.
Photosynthesis is reduced because sunlight does not penetrate very
deeply.
B.
Most of the phytoplankton is found at depths where there is no
sunlight penetration.
C.
Photosynthesis cannot occur in the phytoplankton because the
temperature is too high.
D.
Large fish consume most of the phytoplankton, which reduces
photosynthetic reactions.
69.
Which best explains why public beaches and recreational waterways are
monitored carefully by local health departments?
A.
to protect future industrial expansion
B.
to protect citizens from potential disease
C.
to maintain tourism and economic stability
D.
to maintain public health and safety records
70.
Which could cause a well that has always worked perfectly to suddenly
stop working?
A.
a falling water table due to increased precipitation over a long period
of time
B.
a falling water table due to decreased precipitation over a long period
of time
C.
a rising water table due to increased precipitation over a long period
of time
D.
a rising water table due to decreased precipitation over a long period
of time
71.
Which best explains why most prescription and over­the­counter drugs
should not be disposed of in the sink or toilet?
A.
The drugs can clog drains.
B.
The drugs may not dissolve.
C.
The drugs may enter the water cycle.
D.
The drugs may become less effective.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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72.
Which phase of water in the water cycle best drives weather and climate
as it travels around Earth?
A.
ice
B.
water
C.
water vapor
73.
Which water quality indicator can be determined by measuring how light
travels through water?
A.
turbidity
B.
temperature
C.
nutrient level
D.
dissolved oxygen
74.
The following water quality conditions are observed in a lake ecosystem:
high nitrite concentration
pH of 10
low dissolved oxygen levels
temperature of 60°F
Which best describes this ecosystem?
A.
The ecosystem is suffering the effects of desalination.
B.
The ecosystem is suffering the effects of lake turnover.
C.
The ecosystem is suffering the effects of eutrophication.
D.
The ecosystem is suffering the effects of evapotranspiration.
75.
What is the main source for arsenic contamination of drinking water?
A.
uncapped mines
B.
building materials
C.
farms and industry
EARTH SYSTEMS
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76.
Which best describes the relationship between temperature and
dissolved oxygen in a lake?
A.
B.
C.
D.
As temperature increases, dissolved oxygen increases.
As temperature increases, dissolved oxygen decreases.
As temperature decreases, dissolved oxygen decreases.
A change in temperature has no effect on dissolved oxygen.
77.
Which would best indicate that water taken from a local waterway was
unsafe for drinking?
A.
cloudy water
B.
warm temperature
C.
dead fish in the water
78.
Which technique uses sound waves to measure the depth of the ocean
floor?
A.
global positioning system
B.
radar
C.
sonar
79.
Which best decribes black lumps of manganese mined from the ocean
floor?
A.
bioluminescence
B.
magma
C.
nodules
80.
A new town is established in a remote mountain area. The citizens of the
new town are concerned about the health of themselves and their
environment. Which aspect of the community should the town develop
first to meet their concerns?
A.
clean water source
B.
fine restaurants
C.
large hospitals
D.
good roads
EARTH SYSTEMS
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81. Which statement about ocean currents is accurate?
A.
Ocean currents influence life at the shore.
B.
Ocean currents keep the ocean temperature unstable.
C.
Ocean currents are a major cause of glacier formation.
D.
Ocean currents stir nutrients to help in the production of oxygen.
82.
If water is recycled in the atmosphere, which best describes why water
availability on Earth is decreasing?
A.
An increase in droughts is slowly reducing freshwater reservoirs.
B.
Due to an increase in Earth’s temperature, evaporation rates continue
to increase reducing liquid water on the surface.
C.
Earth’s freshwater continues to become more polluted, reducing the
supply of freshwater safe for humans to consume.
83.
Which percentage represents the amount of freshwater on Earth?
A.
3%
B.
23%
C.
71%
84.
Which best explains why a freshwater well near the ocean would have
saltwater in it?
A.
The well is too shallow and is tapped into the shallow ocean currents.
B.
The well is too deep and is hitting an underground saltwater aquifer.
C.
The water in the aquifer is being used faster than it is naturally
replenished and the ocean water is encroaching upon it.
85.
Which river system moves the most freshwater on Earth?
A.
Nile River
B.
Volga River
C.
Amazon River
EARTH SYSTEMS
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86. A company wishes to build a major golf resort above an aquifer. The company is granted permission to build
the resort, but the builders must follow specific laws and regulations during the construction of the resort.
Why have the laws and regulations most likely been established?
A.
to reduce the amount of money spent on golf resorts
B.
to minimize the impact of pollution on the environment
C.
to protect the rights of humans over the rights of the environment
D.
to prevent the construction of too many golf courses in the country
87.
Which most likely would cause diseases to be spread by polluted water?
A.
dumping human waste in rivers and streams
B.
runoff that contains fertilizers and pesticides
C.
an oil spill resulting from an accident to a ship carrying oil as cargo
88.
Which best describes the water in an estuary?
A.
brackish
B.
frozen
C.
fresh
D.
salt
EARTH SYSTEMS
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89.
This diagram shows the distribution of water on Earth.
Which best describes the amount of frozen water on Earth?
A.
About 2% of Earth’s water is frozen.
B.
About 3% of Earth’s water is frozen.
C.
Exactly 0.9% of Earth’s water is frozen.
90.
Why does a cloudy river produce less plant life than a clear river?
A.
A cloudy river flows freely, while a clear river does not.
B.
A cloudy river has few dissolved nutrients, while a clear river has
many.
C.
A cloudy river absorbs little heat, while a clear river absorbs much
heat.
D.
A cloudy river blocks sunlight from reaching plants, while a clear river
allows sunlight to be absorbed by plants.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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91.
Which natural feature protects inland bodies of water from contamination
by salt water?
A.
bog
B.
canyon
C.
estuary
D.
hydrothermal vent
92.
How do phosphate detergents contribute to water pollution?
A.
by killing plant life
B.
by stripping the oil from bird feathers
C.
by over­fertilizing plants in the water
D.
by removing carbon dioxide from the water
93.
Which best explains why the diversity and productivity of marine
ecosystems is important to the survival of terrestrial organisms?
A.
Marine habitats provide humans with a rich source of food and
income.
B.
Marine habitats provide protection to coastlines and help prevent
erosion.
C.
Marine habitats host species that comprise the base of the marine
food web.
D.
Marine habitats support species that serve as animal food and
fertilizers for crops.
94.
Which provides the largest source of dissolved oxygen in the ocean?
A.
coral reefs
B.
tidal action
C.
algal growth
D.
hydrothermal vents
EARTH SYSTEMS
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95.
The drain in a sink would represent which part of a river basin?
A.
water flowing into the ocean
B.
a mountain stream
C.
river rapids
D.
a meander
96.
Light does not reach the bottom of the ocean, yet certain species live
there. Which best explains how species on the bottom of the ocean get
energy to live?
A.
Algae and bacteria produce energy through photosynthesis.
B.
Hydrothermal vents produce energy through chemical reactions.
C.
Dead plants and animals produce energy through decomposition.
97.
Which will most likely happen if a higher percentage of water is located
in the ground than in the oceans?
A.
Water will become less polluted.
B.
Water will become more polluted.
C.
Water will take less time to complete the water cycle.
D.
Water will take more time to complete the water cycle.
98.
Which substance will most likely cause a decrease in pH if it is leaked
into a North Carolina waterway by a local industry?
A.
soap
B.
bleach
C.
drain cleaner
D.
hydrochloric acid
99.
Why is filtration an important part of water treatment?
A.
Filtration guarantees a clear coloring in water.
B.
Filtration removes small particles from the water.
C.
Filtration adds chlorine to water to kill microorganisms.
D.
Filtration adds vitamins and minerals to drinking water.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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100.
Which best explains why using ultraviolet (UV) light for disinfection may
be better than using chlorine?
A.
Chlorine is difficult to purchase.
B.
Chlorine is harmful and poisonous.
C.
Chlorine turns wastewater discharge purple.
D.
Chlorine lowers the pH of wastewater discharge.
101.
Dissolved oxygen (DO) data for a local river was taken throughout 2011.
In which month was the water temperature most likely the lowest?
A.
January
B.
February
C.
August
D.
December
102.
Which is an effect of chlorine in water?
A.
kills the microorganisms
B.
improves the taste
C.
aerates the water
EARTH SYSTEMS
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103.
Which are two factors that affect water quality?
A.
density and toxicity
B.
texture and color
C.
odor and acidity
104. Look at the list of some types of data that can be used to describe a populated area.
1. plants and animals in the area
2. human population density in the area
3. types of roads in the area 4. water table levels in the area
Which types of data must be included in a model comparing risks of groundwater pollution of drinking
wells in two different watershed areas?
A.
2 and 4 only
B.
1 and 2 only
C.
2 and 3 only
D.
1 and 3 only
105.
Why do plant plankton not grow in the deep ocean?
A.
because sunlight does not reach the deep ocean
B.
because too many animals eat it before it can grow
C.
because there are not enough dissolved gases to support it
106.
Oceans cover about 70% of the surface of the Earth and form layers
based on water depth. Which best describes a factor that is the same
for the different layers of the oceans?
A.
amount of oxygen
B.
amount of light
C.
amount of salt
107.
Which profession most likely includes daily monitoring of the
hydrosphere?
A.
biologist
B.
botanist
C.
geologist
D.
meteorologist
EARTH SYSTEMS
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108. Which factor has the greatest effect on a community’s stores of freshwater?
A.
the location of the nearest ocean
B.
the average annual rainfall
C.
the location of the nearest mountain
D.
the average winter temperature
109.
Which best describes how frogs can be used to indicate the health of a
water system?
A.
Frogs will change color in a polluted environment.
B.
Frogs will sicken or die in a polluted environment.
C.
Frogs will move away from a polluted environment.
D.
Frogs will change their diet in a polluted environment.
110.
A cargo ship in the open ocean spills thousands of cans of soda off the
ship. Which marine ecosystem will primarily be disturbed by this spill?
A.
estuary
B.
coral reef
C.
surface zone
D.
hydrothermal vent
111.
The word “bioaccumulation” is most often associated with which threat
to water?
A.
sediment
B.
excess nitrogen
C.
toxic chemicals
D.
excess nutrients
EARTH SYSTEMS
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112.
Most of the oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere is produced in the top six
inches of the oceans. Which best explains this?
A.
Oxygen is produced as a by­product as fish breathe through their
gills.
B.
Oxygen is produced by seawater, which evaporates into pure oxygen
and hydrogen.
C.
Oxygen is produced by deepwater plants and is then moved to the
surface of the ocean.
D.
Oxygen is produced by photosynthetic microorganisms that live near
the surface of the ocean.
113.
Which event will most likely cause increased turbidity in a lake or pond?
A.
increase in runoff
B.
decrease in runoff
C.
increase in aquatic plants
D.
decrease in aquatic plants
114.
Why should pH tests be conducted frequently to monitor the health of
local streams?
A.
because turbid water reduces visibility
B.
because lack of dissolved oxygen causes fish kills
C.
because water too basic or too acidic destroys the ecosystem
D.
because high phospate levels decrease algae production rates
115.
Which best explains why so little of the water on Earth is available for
human use?
A.
97% of total water on Earth is freshwater, and most of the
remaining 3% is salt water in the ocean basins.
B.
97% of total water on Earth is salt water, and most of the remaining
3% is freshwater frozen in ice caps and glaciers.
C.
97% of total water on Earth is freshwater, and most of the
remaining 3% is salt water found in underground aquifers.
D.
97% of total water on Earth is salt water, and most of the remaining
3% is freshwater found in lakes, rivers, and ponds.
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116.
Which would most likely result in an unhealthy aquatic habitat?
A.
a decrease in turbidity
B.
a decrease in nitrates levels
C.
an increase in water temperature
D.
an increase in dissolved oxygen levels
117.
Which nonpoint pollutants are most directly linked to agriculture?
A.
oil spills and motor oil
B.
road salt and pet waste
C.
acid rain and lawn runoff
D.
bacteria and excess nutrients
118.
The temperature of water in a stream has turned extremely cold. Which
best explains why this is harmful to the stream’s organisms?
A.
It increases the spawning of native fish.
B.
It increases the rate of photosynthesis for plants.
C.
It reduces the flow of water and limits thermal pollution removal.
D.
It reduces the natural metabolic rates and organic matter
breakdown.
119.
Which technological tool uses a sound echo to measure distance?
A.
sonar
B.
submarine
C.
ocean buoy
D.
robotic probe
EARTH SYSTEMS
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120.
Which best explains what happens to nutrients in the ocean as a result
of upwelling?
A.
Upwelling carries nutrients to coral reefs.
B.
Upwelling carries nutrients to the ocean bottom.
C.
Upwelling carries nutrients to the intertidal zone.
D.
Upwelling carries nutrients to the surface of the ocean.
121. A student is creating a model of a stream in a forested mountain watershed. Which of these features might
be included in the model to show how the stream could overload with sediment?
A.
a cabin near the stream
B.
rocks in the middle of the stream
C.
acres of cleared forest above the stream
D.
grasses growing along the banks of the stream
122.
Which is true about most of the freshwater on Earth?
A.
It is abundant.
B.
It is inaccessible.
C.
It is underground.
D.
It is in the atmosphere.
123.
How does upwelling in the ocean affect algae populations in the area?
A.
The algae population grows slowly and forces marine life to move
out to sea.
B.
The current produced by the upwelling forces the algae population to
relocate.
C.
The algae population becomes depleted as a result of colder water
temperatures.
D.
The nutrients supplied as a result of the upwelling cause algae to
become abundant.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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124.
A city with a nearby ocean needs to use the water source to support its
population. Which process could the city use to convert ocean water to
drinking water?
A.
condensation
B.
desalination
C.
evaporation
D.
infiltration
125.
Which is an unlikely source of water for a river basin?
A.
melting snow
B.
ocean water
C.
melting ice
126.
Which most likely has the highest number of contaminants in the water?
A.
a water system with moderate turbidity
B.
a water system with high turbidity
C.
a water system with low turbidity
D.
a water system with no turbidity
127.
Which provide the best source of information about the quality of water
in aquifers?
A.
wells
B.
lakes
C.
septic tanks
EARTH SYSTEMS
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128.
For one week, students monitored the level of turbidity in a local river
and recorded the data.
Level of Turbidity in Local River
DayTurbidity (NTU)
1
2.0
2
1.8
3
2.0
4
8.3
5
7.9
6
2.5
7
2.0
Based on the data, on which day would the dissolved oxygen most likely
be the lowest?
A.
Day 2
B.
Day 4
C.
Day 5
D.
Day 6
129. Which of the following could occur as the result of runoff of high nitrogen fertilizers from farmlands near a
lake?
A.
an increase in algae growth resulting in low oxygen levels in the lake
B.
a decrease in mineral storage reducing carbon levels of the lake
C.
a decrease in pollution resulting in lower ozone levels in the lake area
D.
an increase in deforestation reducing animal populations in the lake area
130.
Which environmental factors would most likely impact the quality of a
freshwater system?
A.
dissolved oxygen and pH
B.
salinity and temperature
C.
surface tension and aquatic organisms
131.
Which would be the impact on the environment if there were no
estuaries?
A.
There would be a drought.
B.
There would be more pollutants in the oceans.
C.
There would be a decreased concentration of salt in the oceans.
D.
There would be less boating, fishing, and swimming in local rivers.
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132.
Which is the best estimate of how much of Earth’s saltwater is
contained in the given ecosystem?
A.
Aquatic ecosystem, 25%
B.
Swamp ecosystem, 50%
C.
Marine ecosystem, 75%
133.
Which best explains how the ocean is the most diverse ecosystem?
A.
It receives nutrients from land carried by rivers and upwelling.
B.
It receives an abundant source of salt from melting glaciers.
C.
There is a large population of decomposers.
134.
Which is the most important reason for maintaining clean water?
A.
Energy cannot be generated without water.
B.
Organisms cannot live and grow without water.
C.
Goods cannot be transported easily without water.
D.
People cannot maintain proper hygiene without water.
135.
What most often causes the availability of water to change?
A.
local geography
B.
type of plants
C.
type of soil
136.
What water quality standard pertains to bacteria levels?
A.
dissolved oxygen levels
B.
fecal coliform levels
C.
nitrate levels
EARTH SYSTEMS
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137.
Why is productivity greatest near the ocean’s surface?
A.
More predators live in the top layers of the ocean.
B.
Salinity at all layers of the open ocean is fairly consistent.
C.
Sunlight penetrates the top layers of the ocean, so photosynthesis
occurs there.
D.
Nutrients, minerals, and gases are more available to marine life in
the bottom layers of the ocean.
138.
In which way does a flood have the greatest impact on local water
quality?
A.
It causes aquifers to run out of water.
B.
It cleans the water and decreases the turbidity.
C.
It allows many foreign materials to enter the water.
D.
It moves animals to new locations and increases biological diversity.
139.
How did the invention of the Aqua Lung change scuba diving and marine
exploration?
A.
Divers could exceed the depth of most submersibles.
B.
Divers could spend more continuous time underwater.
C.
Divers could use the dissolved oxygen in the water to breathe.
140.
Which best describes an estuary?
A.
nutrient­poor swamps and bogs of the Great Lakes
B.
nutrient­poor Cape Fear River and Deep River basins
C.
nutrient­rich tributaries and meanders of the Blue Ridge Mountains
D.
nutrient­rich salt marshes and mangrove forests of the Florida
Everglades
EARTH SYSTEMS
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141.
Which is an area of land that all drains to one place?
A.
river
B.
aquifer
C.
reservoir
D.
watershed
142.
The change in seasonal temperature causes the supply of nutrients to
move in a lake. Which best describes the movement of nutrients?
A.
deposition of sediments
B.
erosion of sediments
C.
lake turnover
143.
How can communities best determine if methods used to maintain water
quality can justify the economic trade­offs involved?
A.
by evaluating health benefits of higher water quality
B.
by creating monetary incentives for industry
C.
by analyzing costs of educational programs
D.
by reducing tax incentives for farmers
144.
Which process removes the most available water from the local water
supply?
A.
runoff
B.
evaporation
C.
condensation
D.
transpiration
145.
Which would most likely affect the amount of water in a lake used to
supply drinking water to the nearby city?
A.
a factory releasing chemicals into the lake
B.
long­term water shortage in the area of the lake
C.
use of the lake for recreational purposes D.
amount of sediment in the lake
EARTH SYSTEMS
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146.
Which causes a decrease in the amount of dissolved oxygen in a lake?
A.
lower temperatures
B.
fertilizer runoff
C.
overfishing
147.
What is the best description for winds pushing water away from shore
along the South American coastline?
A.
density currents
B.
downwelling
C.
upwelling
148.
A company has acquired land next to a local river. One month after the
company opened, the pH of the river dropped from 6.7 to 6.2, and the
month after that, the pH was 5.9. Which effect would lowering the pH
most likely have on the organisms in the river basin?
A.
All organisms would die.
B.
All organisms would thrive.
C.
The organisms would work together to raise the pH of the river.
D.
Some organisms would adapt to the new pH, while others that could
not, would die.
149.
Which invention allowed individuals to better perform research at ocean
depths greater than 100 feet?
A.
barometer
B.
satellite
C.
submersible
EARTH SYSTEMS
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150.
Which best explains why estuaries are an important habitat for many
marine organisms in comparison to the open ocean?
A.
There is less food in estuaries.
B.
There are more predators in estuaries.
C.
There is more salt available in estuaries.
D.
There are more nutrients available in estuaries.
151.
Which property must submersibles and ROVs (remotely operated
vehicles) share?
A.
They should be able to emerge quickly.
B.
They should be able to employ robotic arms.
C.
They must be able to transport several scuba divers.
D.
They must be able to withstand extreme water pressures.
152.
How will high turbidity most likely affect a watershed?
A.
Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels will decrease.
B.
Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels will increase.
C.
Water temperatures will increase, and dissolved oxygen levels will
decrease.
D.
Water temperatures will decrease, and dissolved oxygen levels will
increase.
153.
How do mussels adapt to changing tides near the shore?
A.
Mussels adapt by burying underground when the tide goes out.
B.
Mussels adapt by tightly closing their shells when the tide goes out.
C.
Mussels adapt by attaching firmly to rocks on the shore when the
tide goes out.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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154.
Mary pours 1,000 mL of water into a beaker to represent all of the water
on Earth. She then measures out 800 mL and puts it into another
beaker. Which portion of Earth’s water is most closely represented by
the 800 mL?
A.
water in the ocean
B.
water in the ground
C.
water in lakes and rivers
D.
water trapped in polar ice caps
155.
Which substance is used in a sewage treatment system to kill harmful
bacteria?
A.
ammonia
B.
chlorine
C.
sand
D.
soap
156.
How can sonar best be used to monitor the hydrosphere?
A.
by creating an underwater sound analysis of marine life
B.
by helping map and record distinct features of ocean basins
C.
by recording changes in ocean water temperatures over time
D.
by updating aquatic databases on water temperature and salinity
157.
According to scientists, only 1% of the water on Earth is available for
human use. Where is this available water most likely found?
A.
ocean
B.
groundwater
C.
rivers and lakes
D.
glaciers and icecaps
EARTH SYSTEMS
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158.
Which disease that once caused many deaths has been limited due to
the implementation of water quality standards?
A.
smallpox
B.
influenza
C.
cholera
159.
A measure of the natural populations of algae, plants, fish, and other
wildlife provides evidence of the health of a body of water. By which
term are these measures known?
A.
pH indicators
B.
bio­indicators
C.
abiotic factors
D.
turbidity factors
EARTH SYSTEMS
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160.
This diagram shows pH ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral, less
than 7 as acidic, and greater than 7 being alkaline (basic).
How does pollution affect the pH of a stream?
A.
When the acid rain finds its way into the stream, the pH in the
stream can increase.
B.
When the acid rain finds its way into the stream, the pH in the
stream can decrease.
C.
Pollution corresponds with decreased photosynthesis, which may
cause long­term stability in pH.
161.
Which best describes the water found in estuaries?
A.
brackish
B.
salt water
C.
freshwater
EARTH SYSTEMS
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162.
Which best describes the world’s oceans?
A.
There is one ocean with one basin.
B.
There is one ocean with many basins.
C.
There are many oceans with one basin.
163.
Coral animals survive best in warm water. Which material is most
abundant in warm water?
A.
carbon dioxide
B.
oxygen
C.
nitrogen
164.
Which is the best reason for understanding local watersheds?
A.
to decide where to place recreational parks
B.
to help identify non­point source pollution
C.
to help identify point source pollution
165.
Why do state governments most likely monitor the quality of their local
water sources?
A.
to sell water to other states
B.
to help prevent global warming
C.
to maintain a healthy environment
D.
to save the environment for future generations
166.
Which describes an estuary?
A.
A large body of fresh water.
B.
A large body of salt water.
C.
The wide, lower course of a river where fresh and salt water mix.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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167.
Which would result in the greatest strain on the local water availability?
A.
increased farm activity around local waterways
B.
decreased farm activity around local waterways
C.
decreased industrial activity
168. Which type of water reservoir contains the largest volume of fresh water?
A.
lakes
B.
rivers
C.
ice sheets
D.
aquifers
169.
How does sonar technology help scientists monitor the hydrosphere?
A.
Sonar distributes satellite images for data collection.
B.
Sonar collects information from freshwater organisms.
C.
Sonar determines different levels of water quality in rivers.
D.
Sonar provides detailed images of small areas of the ocean floor.
170.
Sea otters consume sea urchins, which in turn thrive in kelp forests off
the coast of California. These underwater forests depend on cold water.
Which would yield the most stable ecosystem for sea otters?
A.
underwater volcanoes
B.
hurricane activity
C.
upwelling
171.
Bluefin tuna has become the most popular fish for sushi in Japan. Which
is most likely the impact this has had on the species?
A.
Bluefin numbers are decreasing.
B.
Bluefin numbers are increasing.
C.
All bluefin are now raised on farms.
D.
There has been no impact on the species.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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172. Scientists frequently monitor levels of microorganisms at beaches in the summer time. High
temperatures, pollution, runoff, and illegal dumping all affect water quality. What do these scientific efforts
illustrate?
A.
Pollution can be eliminated through water testing.
B.
High temperatures increase runoff from agricultural fields.
C.
Water testing identifies origination of illegal dumping.
D.
Monitoring water quality is important to public health.
173.
Which most likely causes the rate of ground water movement to
change?
A.
the rock material through which the water is moving
B.
the type of plants under which the water is moving
C.
the time of day
EARTH SYSTEMS
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174.
The diagram indicates how carbon is transferred and stored in various
reservoirs.
Where ocean water is warmer, dissolved carbon dioxide is released back
into the atmosphere. In which part of the ocean does this most likely
occur?
A.
at the surface
B.
200 m below the surface
C.
1,000 m below the surface
175.
Which best explains the difference between primary and secondary
sewage treatment?
A.
Primary treatment removes phosphates and nitrates.
B.
Secondary treatment removes all of the pollutants.
C.
Primary treatment removes the solid materials.
D.
Secondary treatment is less expensive.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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176.
Which best explains the effects of a hurricane on estuary circulation and
salinity?
A.
Salinity levels remain the same as before the hurricane.
B.
Salinity concentrations stay stable for a week after a hurricane.
C.
Surface salinity drops within a few hours of a hurricane passing.
D.
Salinity quickly increases during a hurricane and then sharply
decreases.
177.
Which is most likely indicated by the presence of many dead fish on a
coastal shoreline?
A.
higher tides
B.
ocean pollution
C.
stronger currents
D.
heavy inland winds
178.
Indicators of aquatic health are best observed under which conditions?
A.
once every ten years
B.
at the surface, every year
C.
once a year at many depths
D.
many times a year at many depths
179.
Which best explains why all communities do not use tertiary water
treatment, though this treatment removes almost 100% of waste in the
water?
A.
The water would not taste as good.
B.
It would put water bottling companies out of business.
C.
The cost of the procedure is too high for most communities.
D.
The tertiary treatment plants require too much valuable land space.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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180.
Pure water is neutral. If water is neither an acid nor a base, what is the
pH of water?
A.
0
B.
7
C.
10
181.
Which organism uses nitrates from its fresh water habitat as a primary
food source?
A.
fish
B.
birds
C.
algae
182.
Which is the most beneficial reason for installing a water softener?
A.
The cost of water will be reduced.
B.
The number of bacteria in the water will be reduced.
C.
The amount of hydrogen in the water will be reduced.
D.
The amount of calcium and magnesium in the water will be reduced.
183.
Which best describes why melting icebergs to obtain freshwater can be
harmful to our environment?
A.
It can increase the habitats of arctic animals.
B.
It can be costly and complicated to transport the icebergs.
C.
It can cause temperature change in water and climate change in a
region.
184.
Justin is a farmer who wants to improve the quality of the local streams
on his farm. Which action will have the most impact?
A.
growing cotton instead of corn
B.
using a tractor with smaller wheels
C.
increasing the amount of fertilizer used on the crops
D.
planting a vegetated buffer strip along the perimeter of the field
EARTH SYSTEMS
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185.
Which best describes an economic trade­off a community must make in
order to maintain acceptable water quality?
A.
enforcing environmental regulations to prevent point­source pollution
B.
organizing informational meetings to prevent potential zoning
restrictions
C.
providing tax incentives for potential industrial development and
expansion
D.
developing community awareness programs to educate farmers about
pesticides
186.
Which would best demonstrate water movement within the water cycle?
A.
lakes
B.
streams
C.
river basins
187.
Scientists notice that many fish are dying in a local lake. Which onsite
water quality data would they most likely gather to determine the cause
of the fish kill?
A.
arsenic and cyanide levels
B.
water level and surface area
C.
biodiversity and water depth
D.
dissolved oxygen and temperature
188.
Which characteristic of an estuary makes it a good nursery area for
marine organisms?
A.
It is located at the mouth of a river.
B.
It has a mix of salt and fresh water.
C.
It has many areas to hide from predators.
D.
It has the ability to absorb water and prevent flooding.
EARTH SYSTEMS
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189.
What would happen to ocean water if ice caps and glaciers melted?
A.
More saltwater would enter the ocean, making it more dense.
B.
More freshwater would enter the ocean, making it less dense.
C.
More freshwater would enter the ocean, making it more dense.
190.
Organisms that live in an intertidal zone must be able to tolerate which
changes to survive?
A.
changes in temperature but not salinity
B.
changes in salinity but not temperature
C.
changes in both temperature and salinity
D.
changes in neither salinity nor temperature
191.
Why would normal rainfall not completely solve Raleigh’s water
problems?
A.
The city has no way to store the water.
B.
Raleigh’s population is growing rapidly.
C.
Global warming is increasing the daily evaporation rate.
192.
Which best describes the water distribution in an estuary? A.
The saltwater is closer to the surface than the freshwater.
B.
The freshwater is closer to the surface than the saltwater.
C.
The saltwater is found closer to the bank, and the freshwater is
found closer to the center.
D.
The freshwater is found closer to the bank, and the saltwater is
found closer to the center.
193.
Which technology has allowed scientists to accurately map the ocean
floor?
A.
sonar
B.
scuba
C.
satellites
D.
submersibles
EARTH SYSTEMS
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194.
Which percentage represents the amount of Earth’s water that is found
in oceans?
A.
3%
B.
71%
C.
97%
195.
A family living in a house needs to dig a new well before they will have
usable water. Several options for the well location are shown in the
diagram below.
Which location would be the best choice for the new well?
A.
Q
B.
R
C.
S
D.
T
196.
Rivers and streams transport nutrients, salts, sediments, and
pollutants. Which is the correct order for this process?
A.
estuaries → oceans → watersheds
B.
watersheds → oceans → estuaries
C.
watersheds → estuaries → oceans
EARTH SYSTEMS
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197.
How is the size of Raleigh’s population related to the availability of
water in the area?
A.
As the population increases, water availability increases.
B.
As the population increases, water availability decreases.
C.
As the population decreases, water availability decreases.
198.
Which would be the best way for humans to conserve large amounts of
water during a drought?
A.
install high­flow toilets
B.
bathe only once a week
C.
limit drinking water in restaurants
D.
limit use of outdoor sprinkler systems
199.
Which would most likely happen if the temperature of Earth’s oceans
suddenly increased?
A.
Ocean levels would increase due to polar ice melting.
B.
Ocean levels would decrease due to increased evaporation.
C.
Ocean levels would increase due to increased plant and animal
mass.
D.
Ocean levels would decrease due to more water seeping into the
ground.
200.
Which best describes how the oceans are connected to the water
reserves on Earth?
A.
flooding
B.
evaporation and precipitation
C.
tides, waves, and erosion of the seashores
201.
Which would most likely result from a decrease in water supply to
watersheds?
A.
increase in ocean water levels
B.
decrease in lake water levels
C.
decrease in river basin levels
EARTH SYSTEMS
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202.
Which is the largest zone in the ocean?
A.
Neritic
B.
Oceanic
C.
Intertidal
203.
Which would greatly reduce local water availability?
A.
a flood
B.
a drought
C.
a hurricane
204.
Which best explains the relationship between water stored in the ocean
and water stored in groundwater?
A.
Water stored in groundwater enters the ocean directly as discharge,
but ocean water does not enter groundwater.
B.
Water stored in the ocean remains separate from water stored in
groundwater, and the two sources of water do not interact.
C.
Water from the ocean enters groundwater directly through the soil by
infiltration, but groundwater does not enter the ocean water.
D.
Water from the ocean evaporates, condenses, and forms
precipitation which enters groundwater through the soil by
infiltration, but groundwater enters the ocean directly as discharge.
205.
Which is the main reason scientists monitor the water quality of
streams, lakes, and other water sources?
A.
to protect the health of humans
B.
to maintain a clean environment
C.
to decrease oxygen levels in water
D.
to maintain adequate nitrates and bacteria in water
EARTH SYSTEMS
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206. The diagram shows the process of upwelling along the coast of South America.
Westward blowing trade winds blow the warm surface water from the coast to the ocean. Cool nutrient­
rich water from below upwells to the surface. Every three to seven years the trade winds weaken, and an
El Niño­Southern Oscillation (ENSO) event occurs. Which is the most likely result of an ENSO event?
A.
decline in the number of cyclones in the Pacific Ocean
B.
increased number of thunderstorms to the South American mainland
C.
decline in the fishing industry because of the change in the aquatic food chain
D.
decline in the number of people scuba diving due to a decrease in the amount of dissolved oxygen
207.
Which best explains the importance of estuaries?
A.
Estuaries are freshwater areas that support a large amount of living
things.
B.
Estuaries are areas where freshwater and salt water collide,
resulting in a large amount of biodiversity.
C.
Estuaries are tropical areas that support an abundance of life found
usually in cold regions of the ocean.
D.
Estuaries are nutrient­rich areas because they have large amounts of
carbon dioxide seeping into the water from the ground below.
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208.
Which best describes a significant benefit estuaries have on the
environment?
A.
Wildlife helps protect the land from erosion in estuaries.
B.
Fishing industries thrive in and around tropical estuaries.
C.
Pollution is moved from rivers to oceans through estuaries.
D.
Coastal wetlands provide safe and ideal conditions to support animal
habitats.
209.
Which activity within a river basin would most likely contribute to the
pollution of a river?
A.
washing a muddy truck on a grass lawn
B.
washing used paint brushes in a garage utility sink
C.
using a hose to wash motor oil from an asphalt driveway
D.
using a broom to sweep dirt and debris from a parking lot
210.
Which best describes the importance of an aquifer?
A.
It holds uncontaminated ground water for human consumption.
B.
It supplies all water for lakes and rivers.
C.
It provides water for oceans.
211.
Which is true about approximately 80% of Earth’s water supply?
A.
It is moving.
B.
It is not moving.
C.
It exists as salt water.
212.
Which technology is most often used to map the ocean floor?
A.
radar
B.
sonar
C.
submersibles
D.
x­rays
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213.
Which is the dominant physical feature of planet Earth?
A.
oceans
B.
glaciers
C.
continents
D.
atmosphere
214.
Which profession studies the quantity, distribution, circulation, and
physical properties of all bodies of water?
A.
geologist
B.
hydrologist
C.
geoscientist
D.
meteorologist
215. The water cycle describes the movement of the water of Earth. About 96% of the water of Earth is the salt
water found in the oceans while the remaining 4% is fresh water. Where would the majority of the
freshwater on Earth be found?
A.
groundwater and aquifers
B.
swamps and wetlands
C.
ice caps and glaciers
D.
lakes and rivers
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216.
The diagram below shows the distribution of water on Earth. Where is most of the fresh surface water located on Earth?
A.
Ice caps
B.
Lakes
C.
Oceans
217.
Which is most likely an example of point source pollution?
A.
fertilizer sprayed onto a field
B.
water runoff from a city street
C.
a pipe flowing into a river
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218.
A new golf course is built next to a river. Over the past several months,
the nitrate levels of the water in the river have been increasing. Which
best explains the cause of the increasing nitrate levels?
A.
increased growth of algae
B.
decreased biodiversity
C.
runoff from fertilizer
219.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulates the level of
turbidity in drinking water to protect public health. The EPA sets the
limit at 0.3 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units). The data below shows
the turbidity level of four samples taken from the same location over
four consecutive days.
Samples of Drinking Water from Erie Falls
SampleTurbidity (NTU)
1
0.1
2
0.1
3
0.4
4
0.5
Based on the data, which best explains the quality of the drinking
water?
A.
The drinking water is safe because the first two samples are below
the recommended limit.
B.
The drinking water is unsafe because the last two samples are above
the recommended limit.
C.
The drinking water is unsafe because the last two samples are below
the recommended limit.
D.
The drinking water is safe because the average of the samples is
below the recommended limit.
220.
What is the best comparison of density currents and upwelling in the
ocean?
A.
Density currents are caused by the pushing of water; upwelling is
caused by El Niño.
B.
Density currents are caused by El Niño; upwelling is caused by the
pushing of water.
C.
Density currents are caused by differences in salinity and
temperature; upwelling is caused when wind causes surface water to
move away from shore.
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221.
A water table well and another well going into an aquifer are shown in
the diagram below.
During a drought, the water table dries while the aquifer remains nearly
full. Which best explains this?
A.
During the drought, the water table increases, but the water level in
the confined aquifer increases.
B.
During the drought, the water table falls, but the confined aquifer is
mostly isolated from the drought conditions and remains unaffected.
C.
During the drought, the water table remains constant, but the
confined aquifer keeps its water level because of other sources of
water.
222.
How does the use of fluoride in drinking water affect the human
population?
A.
It helps to prevent tooth decay.
B.
It kills bacteria in the water.
C.
It regulates pH of the water.
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223.
Which change indicates a decrease in the pH of a body of water?
A.
The water becomes turbid.
B.
Large organisms begin to die.
C.
Dissolved oxygen levels increase.
D.
Aquatic plants increase in numbers.
224.
Why are Americans warned to avoid drinking the water when visiting
developing countries?
A.
Water in developing countries is discolored.
B.
Water in developing countries is composed of different elements.
C.
Water in developing countries may be minimally treated and could
cause illness.
D.
Water in developing countries contains large amounts of chlorine
from overtreatment.
225. The graph shows the distribution of the freshwater resources of Earth.
Which of these sources of freshwater corresponds to Source 1?
A.
atmospheric water
B.
surface water
C.
frozen water
D.
groundwater
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226.
Which best explains how estuaries support plant and animal life?
A.
The dry land removes pollutants.
B.
The water provides energy for growth.
C.
The habitat areas provide nutrients and shelter.
D.
The cold temperatures decrease dissolved oxygen.
227.
Why is it necessary to have public water treatment systems?
A.
to collect and redistribute nutrients in the water cycle
B.
to maintain the good health of environments and organisms
C.
to manage the runoff from erosion of topsoil and city streets
228.
Which would result if annual rainfall amounts were reduced by 50%?
A.
a flood
B.
a surplus
C.
a drought
D.
a monsoon
229.
An area that uses a reservoir is suffering from a drought. Which best
explains why water authorities would continue to release water into a
river basin from the reservoir?
A.
The flowing water keeps the river basin healthy.
B.
People along the river need the water for recreational activities.
C.
It will prevent flooding along the river basin in case of heavy
rainfalls.
D.
The extra water is needed for irrigation on the farms bordering the
river.
230.
Why is it important to monitor turbidity levels of a water system?
A.
Frogs will destroy fish eggs in murky water.
B.
Fish are better able to find food in cloudy water.
C.
Water can only be used for recreation when it is clear.
D.
Suspended particles diffuse sunlight and absorb too much heat.
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231.
Which would most negatively impact local water availability?
A.
floods
B.
droughts
C.
hurricanes
232.
Which best explains why estuaries are productive ecosystems?
A.
They have high saltwater content.
B.
They have high levels of dissolved gases.
C.
They receive nutrients from both rivers and the ocean.
D.
They receive chemicals from commercial and industrial runoff.
233.
Which describes the hydrosphere?
A.
all of Earth’s organisms and the environments in which they live
B.
a layer of Earth’s atmosphere made up primarily of concentrated
ozone
C.
all of the water in Earth’s oceans, lakes, seas, rivers, and glaciers,
plus the water in the atmosphere
234.
Why is it important for people to understand how to properly dispose of
wastes?
A.
Proper disposal of wastes will regulate Earth’s climate.
B.
Proper disposal of wastes will eliminate the need for additional
landfills.
C.
Improper disposal of wastes in a watershed affects the amount of
water flowing downstream.
D.
Improper disposal of wastes in a watershed affects the organisms
living in the water downstream.
235.
Which factor most influences local water availability?
A.
runoff
B.
infiltration
C.
precipitation
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236.
Where is most of Earth’s water found?
A.
lakes
B.
oceans
C.
streams
237. Which of these is a freshwater reservoir?
A.
Gulf of Mexico
B.
Pacific Ocean
C.
Atlantic tidal basin
D.
Antarctic polar ice
238.
Which best explains why inhabitants of an estuary must adapt to
frequent environmental changes?
A.
Estuaries receive little sunlight.
B.
The water temperature is constantly warm.
C.
The salinity of the water is constantly changing.
D.
Low levels of oxygen are absorbed by the water.
239.
The City of Raleigh has a pollution prevention hotline for reporting an
illegal discharge into a storm drain. Which activity should be reported
through the hotline?
A.
someone dumping used motor oil into a storm drain
B.
a strong gust of wind blowing leaves into a storm drain
C.
stormwater flowing into a storm drain after a heavy rain event
D.
a volunteer stenciling “Don’t Dump ­ Drains to River” on a curb above
a storm drain
240.
Which best explains where the richest deposits of oil and natural gas
can be located?
A.
continental shelves
B.
intertidal zone
C.
deep zone
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241.
Which is an accurate prediction of the pH of a lake that receives large
amounts of acid rain?
A.
4–5
B.
6–7
C.
8–9
D.
10–11
242.
Why might countries bordering the Pacific ocean have problems getting
enough water to meet the needs of their citizens?
A.
The water is too cold to use.
B.
Removing salt from the water is too expensive and impractical.
C.
There are more people in the countries than the water can nourish. 243.
Which is the best reason for monitoring local water availability in the
hydrosphere?
A.
to be aware of impending droughts
B.
to measure exact levels of well water
C.
to predict the best fishing ponds and lakes
D.
to determine the latest precipitation amounts
244.
Which is used by sewage treatment plants to kill harmful bacteria in
water?
A.
filters
B.
chlorine
C.
detergents
D.
coagulants
245.
Where is the majority of Earth’s freshwater located?
A.
groundwater
B.
oceans
C.
lakes
D.
ice
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246.
Why is arsenic contamination difficult to monitor?
A.
It shows few symptoms.
B.
It is present everywhere.
C.
It is odorless and tasteless.
247.
Where is most of the freshwater found on Earth?
A.
atmosphere
B.
groundwater
C.
polar ice caps
D.
rivers and streams
248.
How does the development of more tributaries affect a local river basin?
A.
The amount of water carried by the basin is decreased because it is
gathered from many streams near the source of the river.
B.
The amount of water carried by the basin is increased because it is
gathered from many streams near the source of the river.
C.
The amount of water carried by the basin is decreased because it is
dispersed through many channels at the mouth of the river.
D.
The amount of water carried by the basin is increased because it is
dispersed through many channels at the mouth of the river.
249.
Which is true about Earth’s water distribution?
A.
About 70% is found in rivers.
B.
About 80% is found in glaciers.
C.
About 80% is salt water.
250.
Which piece of technology should a scientist use to measure humidity?
A.
rain gauge
B.
psychrometer
C.
radar imaging
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