Why the Sun appears to move across the sky | Starter Quiz | Oak National Academy

Earth spins, or ___ on its axis once every 24 hours.

Answer explanation

Earth spins, or rotates, on its axis. This means that it faces towards the Sun and away from the Sun in 24 hours.

Which word do scientists use to describe the skill of looking at something very closely?

• test

• measure

• observe

• classify

Answer explanation

When scientists look closely at things, they observe with their eyes and can use other senses too.

When light shines on an object outside during the day, a shadow can form. Where does the light come from?

• 
• 
• 

Answer explanation

During the day, shadows can form when an object blocks light from the Sun.

A person makes a shadow when they block light from the Sun because they are...

• tall

• heavy

• smooth

• opaque

• transparent

Answer explanation

An opaque object does not let light through, and so when light is blocked a shadow is made.

Which statement about shadows is true?

• Shadows can be made indoors and outdoors.

• Shadows can only be made outdoors.

• Shadows can only be made indoors.

Answer explanation

Shadows are made when an opaque object blocks the light, and this can happen when light shines indoors and outdoors.

Which unit would you use for measuring the length of a very short shadow?

• millimetres

• millilitres

• minutes

• miles

Answer explanation

Millimetres are used for measuring precisely the length of short or narrow objects.