Space Scientists

What is a group of stars that form a pattern or arrangement known as?

• Galaxy

• Constellation

• Solar System

• Cluster

Answer explanation

A group of stars that form a recognizable pattern in the night sky is called a constellation. Unlike galaxies or solar systems, constellations are primarily a way to identify and map stars from our perspective on Earth.

What is the mixture of gases that surrounds any planet called?

• Atmosphere

• Stratosphere

• Troposphere

• Biosphere

Answer explanation

The mixture of gases that surrounds any planet is called the atmosphere. It is essential for supporting life and protecting the planet from harmful solar radiation.

What is one of two halves of a planet, divided at the equator, called?

• Hemisphere

• Quarter

• Segment

• Section

Answer explanation

One of two halves of a planet, divided at the equator, is called a 'hemisphere'. This term specifically refers to the two equal parts created by the equator, distinguishing it from other terms like quarter or segment.

What is the movement in a circle around a fixed point called?

• Revolution

• Rotation

• Orbit

• Spin

Answer explanation

The movement in a circle around a fixed point is called rotation. This term specifically refers to an object turning around an axis, while revolution typically describes the movement of one object around another.

How long does it take for the Earth to complete a full rotation on its axis?

• 24 hours

• 12 hours

• 48 hours

• 365 days

Answer explanation

The Earth takes approximately 24 hours to complete one full rotation on its axis, which defines the length of a day. This is why the correct answer is 24 hours.

How long does it take for the Earth to orbit the Sun?

• 365 days

• 24 hours

• 28 days

• 12 months

Answer explanation

The Earth takes approximately 365 days to complete one orbit around the Sun, which is why we have a year defined as 365 days. This is the correct answer, as the other options do not represent the orbital period.

Which of these describes the sun?

• A burning ball of gas

• A solid rock

• A cold star

• A giant planet

Answer explanation

The sun is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, undergoing nuclear fusion, which makes it a burning ball of gas. The other options do not accurately describe its nature.

Who was Nicolaus Copernicus?

• A mathematician and astronomer

• A famous artist

• A well-known philosopher

• A celebrated musician

Answer explanation

Nicolaus Copernicus was a key figure in the history of science, known for formulating the heliocentric model of the universe. This makes him primarily a mathematician and astronomer, not an artist, philosopher, or musician.

What does the outer core create?

• Earthquakes

• Magnetic field

• Volcanoes

• Mountains

Answer explanation

The outer core is responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field through the movement of molten iron and nickel. This movement creates electric currents, which in turn produce the magnetic field that surrounds the planet.

What is the phase called when the Moon is half-lit and increasing in visibility?

• First Quarter

• Waning Crescent

• Full Moon

• New Moon

Answer explanation

The phase when the Moon is half-lit and increasing in visibility is called the First Quarter. During this phase, half of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, and it appears to be growing brighter each night.