Science STAAR

Which of the following events in the water cycle is an example of solar energy being absorbed? (5.8B)

• Water vapor condensing to form clouds

• Water evaporating from the surface of an ocean

• Rain freezing as it falls toward the ground

• Clouds releasing precipitation over a mountain

The diagram shows the process of evaporation over the ocean. What is the most likely effect of this process on the land areas nearby? (5.8B)

• Increased drought conditions

• Decreased erosion of the shoreline

• Increased precipitation

• Decreased solar energy

This photograph shows a beach on a partly sunny day. Which of the following is an interaction between the sun and the ocean that results in clouds forming near the beach? (5.8B)

• Energy from the sun causes precipitation over the ocean.

• Energy from the sun causes water to evaporate from the ocean.

• Light from the sun reflects off the surface of the ocean.

• Light from the sun decreases the amount of water vapor in the air over the ocean.

The model shows where water can be found during different stages of the water cycle. What should be added to the diagram to better explain the water cycle? (5.8B)

• Soil to trap water from runoff

• The sun to provide energy for evaporation

• Rocks to release thermal energy

• Plants to provide oxygen in the atmosphere

The picture shows a cumulonimbus cloud forming over an ocean. Which statement best explains how the sun and the ocean interact to form a cumulonimbus cloud? (5.8B)

• Heat from the sun warms the ocean, causing the water to evaporate. The water vapor then condenses to form a cumulonimbus cloud.

• Heat from the sun causes clouds in the area to gather over the ocean and form one large cumulonimbus cloud.

• Light from the sun shines on the ocean, causing water vapor to condense. The water then evaporates to form a cumulonimbus cloud.

• Light from the sun causes ocean water to reflect water vapor into the air and gather over the ocean into a cumulonimbus cloud.

The pictures show a sidewalk at three different times on the same day. The changes were caused by the weather. Which table best describes the changes that most likely occurred between 6 am and noon? (4.8B)

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A diagram of the stages in the water cycle is shown. Which of these observations would most likely be seen at Stage N? (4.8B)

• Water flowing downhill

• Fog forming along a highway

• The water level of a lake decreasing

• Dark clouds forming in the sky