Friday 10.4 Music 54-61 & Science 81-100 Quiz Academic Decathlon

Scientists define biomes based on the types of

• landscapes and topographies

• minerals and metals

• flora and fauna

• climates and weather patterns

Answer explanation

Biomes are defined by the types of flora and fauna present, as these living organisms interact with their environment and are influenced by factors like climate and geography.

The term 'solar energy flux' describes

• the absorption of energy by plants

• the reflection of sunlight

• differences in solar energy received

• the movement of solar panels

Answer explanation

The term 'solar energy flux' refers to the amount of solar energy received per unit area. Therefore, the correct choice is 'differences in solar energy received', as it captures the variation in energy levels across different locations.

The Hadley cell is responsible for

• volcanic activity

• ocean currents

• tectonic movements

• air circulation between the equator and cooler regions

Answer explanation

The Hadley cell is a large-scale atmospheric circulation pattern that transports warm air from the equator towards the poles, creating distinct climate zones. Thus, it is responsible for air circulation between the equator and cooler regions.

Oceanic currents in the Northern Hemisphere circulate in a

• counterclockwise direction

• clockwise direction

• vertical direction

• random direction

Answer explanation

In the Northern Hemisphere, oceanic currents circulate in a clockwise direction due to the Coriolis effect, which causes moving fluids to turn right. This is a fundamental characteristic of ocean circulation patterns.

Tundra biomes experience

• the highest temperatures and highest precipitation

• warm temperatures and dry conditions

• the coldest temperatures and least precipitation

• moderate temperatures and high precipitation

Answer explanation

Tundra biomes are characterized by extremely cold temperatures and minimal precipitation, making 'the coldest temperatures and least precipitation' the correct choice. Other options describe conditions not typical of tundra.

The productivity of temperate grasslands meets approximately

• one-third of that of tropical rainforests

• one-fourth of that of tropical rainforests

• the same as tropical rainforests

• half of that of tropical rainforests

Answer explanation

Temperate grasslands have a productivity that is approximately one-third of that of tropical rainforests, making this the correct choice. This highlights the significant difference in productivity between these ecosystems.

Phytoplankton produce most of the energy used by

• freshwater ecosystems

• desert ecosystems

• ocean ecosystems

• terrestrial ecosystems

Answer explanation

Phytoplankton are the primary producers in ocean ecosystems, converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. They form the base of the marine food web, making them crucial for oceanic energy production.

Estuaries occur at river mouths and contain a mix of

• saltwater and freshwater

• sediment and rocks

• minerals and nutrients

• sand and silt

Answer explanation

Estuaries are unique ecosystems where rivers meet the sea, resulting in a mix of saltwater and freshwater. This brackish water supports diverse wildlife and plant species, making 'saltwater and freshwater' the correct choice.

Macronutrients include elements such as

• hydrogen and sulfur

• nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium

• oxygen and carbon

• calcium and magnesium

Answer explanation

Macronutrients are essential elements for plant growth, primarily including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are crucial for various physiological functions, making this the correct choice.

The term used to describe animal life is

• flora

• fauna

• fungi

• microbiota

Answer explanation

The term 'fauna' specifically refers to animal life, while 'flora' refers to plant life, 'fungi' to fungi organisms, and 'microbiota' to microbial life. Therefore, 'fauna' is the correct choice for describing animal life.