Carbon Cycle and Water Text Questions

What is the carbon cycle?

• A process that creates new carbon

• A natural recycling system for carbon

• A method to destroy carbon

• A way to produce carbon from scratch

Answer explanation

The carbon cycle is a natural recycling system for carbon, involving processes like photosynthesis and respiration that move carbon through the atmosphere, biosphere, and geosphere, maintaining balance in ecosystems.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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What happens during decomposition in the carbon cycle?

• Carbon is created

• Carbon is destroyed

• Carbon is released back into the soil

• Carbon is turned into oxygen

Answer explanation

During decomposition, organic matter breaks down, releasing carbon back into the soil. This process is essential for recycling nutrients and maintaining soil health, making 'Carbon is released back into the soil' the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What are fossil fuels?

• Freshwater sources

• Renewable energy sources

• Coal, oil, and natural gas

• Plants and animals

Answer explanation

Fossil fuels are natural resources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. The correct answer, coal, oil, and natural gas, are the primary types of fossil fuels used for energy.

What percentage of Earth's surface is covered with water?

• 50%

• 71%

• 90%

• 30%

Answer explanation

About 71% of Earth's surface is covered with water, primarily in the form of oceans. This makes the correct answer 71%, as the other options significantly underestimate or overestimate the actual coverage.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is a watershed?

• A type of fossil fuel

• A basin or low area that water drains into

• A method of water purification

• A type of plant that absorbs water

Answer explanation

A watershed is defined as a basin or low area where water drains into, collecting rainwater and runoff. This distinguishes it from the other options, which do not accurately describe what a watershed is.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is one way humans impact water with dams?

• By increasing water flow

• By disrupting water's natural flow

• By creating more freshwater

• By reducing water pollution

Answer explanation

Dams disrupt water's natural flow by altering river ecosystems, affecting fish migration and sediment transport, which can lead to ecological imbalances.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

What is one way to reduce our carbon footprint?

• By increasing fossil fuel usage

• By being mindful of carbon dioxide emissions

• By cutting down more trees

• By using more plastic

Answer explanation

Being mindful of carbon dioxide emissions helps us identify and reduce activities that contribute to our carbon footprint, unlike the other options which would increase it.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-3

What is one major consequence of overusing freshwater?

• Increased rainfall

• Water shortages

• More fish in rivers

• Cleaner lakes

Answer explanation

Overusing freshwater leads to water shortages as the demand exceeds the available supply. This can result in negative impacts on ecosystems and human activities, making 'Water shortages' the correct consequence.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Why is it important to conserve water?

• To increase water bills

• To ensure future generations have water

• To make rivers flow faster

• To create more lakes

Answer explanation

Conserving water is crucial to ensure future generations have access to this vital resource. Without conservation efforts, water scarcity could threaten their ability to meet basic needs.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

What is a negative impact of human activity on Earth's watersheds?

• Increased fish population

• Water shortages

• More rainfall

• Cleaner rivers

Answer explanation

Human activities, such as over-extraction of water and pollution, can lead to water shortages in watersheds. This negatively impacts ecosystems and communities that rely on these water sources.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5