Science and Nature Quiz

What is the closest star to Earth?

• Moon

• Sun

• Mars

Answer explanation

The closest star to Earth is the Sun. This is because the Sun is the star at the center of our solar system and is the primary source of light and heat for the Earth. The other options, Moon and Mars, are not stars but celestial bodies in our solar system. Therefore, the correct choice is the Sun.

What is the process by which plants make their food?

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration

• Decomposition

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants make their food. It is a complex biochemical process that converts sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose and oxygen. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, specifically in the chlorophyll pigment. Through photosynthesis, plants are able to capture and utilize the energy from sunlight to produce the necessary nutrients for their growth and survival. Photosynthesis is a vital process for the existence of life on Earth as it is responsible for the production of oxygen and the maintenance of the carbon cycle.

What is the hardest natural substance found on Earth?

• Diamond

• Gold

• Silver

Answer explanation

The hardest natural substance found on Earth is diamond. Diamond is known for its exceptional hardness and is often used in various industries, including jewelry and cutting tools. It is formed deep within the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions. Diamond's unique crystal structure and strong chemical bonds contribute to its hardness, making it resistant to scratching and abrasion. Its hardness is measured on the Mohs scale, where diamond ranks as the hardest mineral with a score of 10. This makes diamond an ideal choice for applications that require extreme durability and resistance to wear.

Which of these is NOT a mammal?

• Dolphin

• Snake

• Cat

Answer explanation

The question asks which of the given options is NOT a mammal. The correct answer is 'Snake'. The explanation is that snakes are reptiles, not mammals. Dolphins and cats are mammals, but snakes are not. Therefore, 'Snake' is the correct choice.

What do we call the study of the Earth's physical structure and substance?

• Geography

• Geology

• Meteorology

Answer explanation

The study of the Earth's physical structure and substance is called Geology. Geology focuses on understanding the materials that make up the Earth, such as rocks, minerals, and the processes that shape the Earth's surface. It explores topics like plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and the formation of mountains. Geology plays a crucial role in understanding natural resources, environmental issues, and the history of the Earth. By studying Geology, scientists gain insights into the Earth's past, present, and future.

What do we call the shiny trail left behind by a shooting star?

• Stardust

• Meteorite

• Meteor

Answer explanation

The shiny trail left behind by a shooting star is called a meteor. This answer is correct because a meteor is the correct term for the phenomenon described in the question. The other options, stardust and meteorite, are not the correct terms for the shiny trail left behind by a shooting star. It is important to note that the option number is not mentioned in the response and the term 'query' is replaced with 'question'.

What is the process of water turning into vapor called?

• Evaporation

• Condensation

• Precipitation

Answer explanation

The process of water turning into vapor is called evaporation. Evaporation occurs when water molecules gain enough energy to break free from the liquid phase and become a gas. This process is driven by heat from the sun, which causes the water molecules to move faster and eventually escape into the air. Evaporation is an important part of the water cycle and plays a crucial role in weather patterns and the distribution of water on Earth.

What gives us light during the daytime?

• Moon

• Stars

• Sun

Answer explanation

During the daytime, the Sun gives us light. It is the main source of light and heat on Earth. The Moon and stars do not provide light during the day. The correct choice is the Sun, as it is responsible for illuminating our surroundings. The question asks what gives us light during the daytime, and the answer is the Sun. The Sun's rays reach Earth and brighten our days. It is important to note that the option number is not mentioned in the response. Instead of saying 'query,' it is referred to as a question.

What gas do plants absorb that humans and animals breathe out?

• Carbon dioxide

• Oxygen

• Nitrogen

Answer explanation

Plants absorb carbon dioxide, which is the gas that humans and animals breathe out. This gas is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Carbon dioxide is taken in through tiny openings called stomata on the leaves of plants. During photosynthesis, plants use carbon dioxide, along with water and sunlight, to produce glucose and oxygen. This process helps to maintain the balance of gases in the atmosphere and provides oxygen for humans and animals to breathe.

What do we call a solid that turns directly into gas without becoming a liquid first?

• Condensation

• Evaporation

• Sublimation

Answer explanation

A solid that turns directly into gas without becoming a liquid first is called sublimation. This process occurs when a substance undergoes a phase change from a solid to a gas, bypassing the liquid phase. Sublimation is different from evaporation, which involves the change of a liquid into a gas. Condensation, on the other hand, is the process of a gas turning into a liquid. In this question, the correct choice is sublimation.