8th Grade Science STAAR Practice Questions

Front

What is the primary source of energy that drives Earth's weather and climate?

Back

The Sun

Front

How does the Sun contribute to convection currents in the atmosphere?

Back

It heats air near the equator more than at the poles, causing warm air to rise and cool air to sink.

Front

How does solar energy drive the water cycle?

Back

It evaporates water, which then condenses into clouds and falls as precipitation.

Front

Why do coastal areas generally have more moderate temperatures than inland areas?

Back

The ocean absorbs and releases heat more slowly than land.

Front

Which part of the Earth's system stores and distributes heat, influencing weather and climate?

Back

Hydrosphere

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The deflection of moving air due to Earth's rotation.

Front

What type of weather is associated with high-pressure systems?

Back

Clear and dry

Front

What happens when a cold front moves into an area?

Back

Warm air rises quickly, often causing thunderstorms.

Front

What type of global wind belt moves weather across the United States from west to east?

Back

Westerlies

Front

What causes wind?

Back

Differences in air pressure due to unequal heating of Earth's surface.