Earth Science SOL 2004 Released Test

Because of the unique position of the Earth in the solar system, life has flourished due to the presence of __.

• helium

• volcanoes

• liquid water

• salt

Answer explanation

Life on Earth thrives primarily due to the presence of liquid water, which is essential for all known forms of life. Unlike helium, volcanoes, or salt, liquid water supports biological processes and ecosystems.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

At what position would Earth be found in the solar system diagram shown above?

• 1

• 2

• 3

• 4

Answer explanation

Earth is the third planet from the Sun in our solar system. In the diagram, the correct position for Earth is labeled as 2, indicating its relative distance from the Sun compared to other planets.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-3

What element is the main component of most stars?

• Nitrogen

• Iron

• Hydrogen

• Oxygen

Answer explanation

Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and makes up about 74% of the mass of stars. It is the primary fuel for nuclear fusion in stars, making it the main component of most stars.

The hypothesis for the cause of the dinosaurs’ extinction that has the most scientific support links their extinction to __.

• a long drought

• the appearance of man

• the increase in numbers of mammals

• a large object from space hitting the Earth

Answer explanation

The hypothesis with the most scientific support for the dinosaurs' extinction is linked to a large object from space hitting the Earth, specifically the asteroid impact that created the Chicxulub crater.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Approximately 99.7% of all water on Earth is found in oceans, seas, ice, and the atmosphere. Based on this information, which statement is most accurate?

• The Earth’s freshwater supply is infinite.

• Less than 0.3% of Earth’s water is drinkable.

• Humans are not dependent on ocean water.

• The water cycle returns all usable water to the sea.

Answer explanation

Since approximately 99.7% of Earth's water is in oceans and ice, less than 0.3% is available as freshwater. Therefore, the statement 'Less than 0.3% of Earth’s water is drinkable' is the most accurate.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

The longitude of Richmond, Virginia, on the above map is approximately __.

• 75° W

• 38° N

• 38° W

• 75° N

Answer explanation

Richmond, Virginia is located at approximately 75° W longitude. The other options represent either latitude or incorrect longitude values, making 75° W the correct choice.

In what direction is Staunton from Richmond?

• Northeast

• Northwest

• Southeast

• Southwest

Answer explanation

Staunton is located to the northwest of Richmond. This can be determined by looking at a map, where Staunton is positioned above and to the left of Richmond, confirming the northwest direction.

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NGSS.4-ESS2-2

During which portion of the Earth’s revolution around the sun is the Northern Hemisphere tilted toward the sun?

• Vernal Equinox

• Summer Solstice

• Autumnal Equinox

• Winter Solstice

Answer explanation

The Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the sun during the Summer Solstice, which occurs around June 21. This tilt results in the longest day of the year and marks the peak of summer.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

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What is the best evidence that many different geologic periods are represented in Virginia?

• The length of its rivers

• The location of the Piedmont

• The presence of fossils of different ages

• The amount of chemical weathering

Answer explanation

The presence of fossils of different ages in Virginia indicates that various geologic periods are represented, as fossils provide direct evidence of the types of organisms that existed during those times.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Volcanic ash has occasionally formed molds of animals. This occurs when the ash covers the animal and __.

• replaces the animal’s soft tissues

• enters the animal’s body cavity

• hardens before the animal decays

• mineralizes the animal’s bones

Answer explanation

Volcanic ash can create molds of animals when it hardens before the animal decays. This process preserves the shape of the animal, allowing for a detailed mold to form, unlike other options that do not lead to mold formation.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1