Quiz on Mikhail Lomonosov

Where was Mikhail Lomonosov born?

• Moscow

• Archangel (now Arkhangelsk)

• St. Petersburg

• Kazan

Answer explanation

Mikhail Lomonosov was born in Archangel, which is now known as Arkhangelsk. This distinguishes it from other cities listed, such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, where he later lived and worked.

At the age of 19, Lomonosov left home with only two books. Which books were they?

• The Bible and a Grammar book

• Grammatica and Arithmetica

• A book of poetry and a philosophy treatise

• A history book and a physics textbook

Answer explanation

Lomonosov left home with two essential books for his education: 'Grammatica' for language study and 'Arithmetica' for mathematics. These choices reflect his commitment to learning foundational subjects.

How long did it take Lomonosov to travel from his village to Moscow, and how did he make the journey?

• 10 days by horseback

• 5 weeks by sleigh with frozen fish

• 3 weeks by boat

• 1 month by foot

Answer explanation

Lomonosov traveled from his village to Moscow in 5 weeks using a sleigh loaded with frozen fish. This method was practical for transporting goods and himself over the long distance.

What false claim did Lomonosov make to gain admission to the Slavic-Greek-Latin Academy in Moscow?

• He was a nobleman's son

• He had studied abroad

• He was an orphan

• He was a relative of Peter the Great

Answer explanation

Lomonosov falsely claimed he was a nobleman's son to gain admission to the Slavic-Greek-Latin Academy. This deception was crucial for him, as it provided a pathway to education that was typically reserved for the nobility.

What major scientific event did Lomonosov observe in 1761, and what did he discover?

• The discovery of electricity

• The atmosphere of Venus

• The theory of conservation of mass

• The first use of the reflector telescope

Answer explanation

In 1761, Lomonosov observed the transit of Venus across the Sun, leading to the discovery of its atmosphere. This was significant as it provided evidence of atmospheric conditions on another planet.

What did Lomonosov design in 1754 that is considered an early form of a flying machine?

• A hot air balloon

• A steam-powered plane

• A working helicopter model

• A jet propulsion engine

Answer explanation

In 1754, Lomonosov designed a working helicopter model, which is recognized as an early attempt at creating a flying machine. This choice distinguishes it from other options like hot air balloons or jet engines.

What is Lomonosov's contribution to chemistry, specifically related to the law of conservation of matter?

• He discovered the periodic table

• He introduced the concept of atoms

• He proved the law of conservation of matter

• He isolated oxygen

Answer explanation

Lomonosov's significant contribution to chemistry was proving the law of conservation of matter, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction, laying foundational principles for modern chemistry.

In which field did Lomonosov make significant contributions, in addition to science?

• Music

• Painting

• Poetry

• Architecture

Answer explanation

Lomonosov was not only a prominent scientist but also a talented poet. His contributions to poetry include writing in various forms and themes, showcasing his literary skills alongside his scientific achievements.

What was Lomonosov's role in the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences after his return from Germany?

• He became the director of the Academy

• He was the first Russian Academician

• He founded the first laboratory in Russia

• He oversaw the Academy's library

Answer explanation

Lomonosov was a pioneering figure in Russian science and became the first Russian Academician at the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences after his return from Germany, marking a significant milestone in the institution's history.

What significant educational achievement did Lomonosov accomplish in 1755?

• He established the Russian Academy of Sciences

• He founded the University of Moscow

• He created Russia's first engineering school

• He developed a national curriculum for schools

Answer explanation

In 1755, Lomonosov founded the University of Moscow, marking a significant milestone in Russian education. This institution became a cornerstone for higher education in Russia, distinguishing it from the other options listed.