Winter Trivia

Before they were candy, what was the original purpose of marshmallows?

• To sweeten desserts

• Medicine

• Building material

• Ingredient in soups and stews

Answer explanation

Originally, marshmallows were made from the root sap of the marsh mallow plant (Althaea officinalis), combined with sugar and egg white. This concoction served as a medicinal syrup and ointment, known for its soothing properties to treat ailments like sore throats, coughs, and skin irritations. Over the years, the use of marshmallows transitioned from medicinal to culinary, evolving into the sweet treat we know today. (Britannica Education)

What percentage of Earth's surface is covered by snow either permanently or temporarily?

• 16%

• 23%

• 29%

• 32%

How many times does the winter solstice happen each year?

• 1

• 2

• 4

• 12

Answer explanation

The winter solstice occurs twice annually: once in the Northern Hemisphere around December 21 or 22, when the Sun's path is farthest south, and once in the Southern Hemisphere around June 20 or 21, when the Sun's path is farthest north. This event marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year in each respective hemisphere. The winter solstice also signifies the beginning of the winter season. (Britannica Education)

What city are the McCallisters visiting when they forget their 8 year old son, Kevin, in the movie Home Alone?

• New York

• London

• Paris

• Rome

Answer explanation

What is the name of the process where ice changes directly into water vapor without melting?

• Evaporation

• Condensation

• Sublimation

• Freezing

Answer explanation

Dry ice evaporating and food being freeze dried are examples of sublimation.

Which of these is NOT one of Buddy the Elf's food groups?

• Candy Canes

• Candy Corn

• Cotton Candy

• Syrup

Answer explanation

According to Buddy the Elf, elves' four food groups are candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup.

What year was the first Winter Olympics held?

• 1912

• 1920

• 1924

• 1930

What is the name of the northern lights, a natural light display in Earth's sky, predominantly seen in the polar regions?

• Stellar Lights

• Ursus Maritimus

• Cosmic Glow

• Aurora Borealis

Answer explanation

Also known as the northern lights, the Aurora Borealis illuminates Earth's upper atmosphere in the Northern Hemisphere's high latitudes. This display results from solar wind particles interacting with atmospheric atoms, producing radiant curtains, arcs, and bands in colors like greenish-blue and red. The phenomenon stems from charged particles colliding with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, emitting distinctive radiation. (Britannica Education)

Which game is similar to ice hockey and is played almost exclusively in the Scandinavian countries, Baltic states, and Mongolia?

• Curling

• Bandy

• Jai alai

• Lacrosse

Answer explanation

The three major cities that get the most snowfall on Earth are all in what country?

• Russia

• Canada

• Iceland

• Japan

Answer explanation

Cities in Japan get "sea-effect snow" where cold Siberian air mixes with warm, wet air from the Sea of Japan and causes heavy snowfall.