NWEA Set 1 Practice: Earth Science (6SCI)

What is the Vernal Equinox?

• The Vernal Equinox is the point in spring when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring around March 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere.

• The Vernal Equinox marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring around December 21.

• The Vernal Equinox is a day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, usually around June 21.

• The Vernal Equinox is a celebration of the harvest season, typically held in the fall.

What happens during a solar eclipse?

• The Earth passes between the moon and the sun, blocking the moon's light.

• The moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's light.

• The sun passes between the Earth and the moon, causing a shadow on the Earth.

• The moon orbits the Earth, causing a change in the sun's brightness.

At which latitude do the sun's rays strike directly at noon during the summer solstice?

• Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5° North latitude

• Equator, located at 0° latitude

• Tropic of Capricorn, located at 23.5° South latitude

• Arctic Circle, located at 66.5° North latitude

What is the significance of the summer solstice?

• It marks the beginning of winter.

• It is the longest day of the year, occurring around June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere.

• It is the shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21.

• It is a day of equal daylight and darkness, occurring around March 21.

What phase of the moon occurs when the Earth is between the sun and the moon?

• New Moon

• Full Moon

• First Quarter

• Last Quarter

What is the Earth's axial tilt?

• 20 degrees

• 23.5 degrees

• 30 degrees

• 15 degrees

What is the significance of the North Pole?

• It is the southernmost point on Earth.

• It is the northernmost point on Earth, located at 90° North latitude, and is significant for its extreme climate and polar ecosystems.

• It is a major tourist destination known for its warm climate.

• It is a site for many historical battles.

What is the difference between a new moon and a full moon?

• A new moon occurs when the moon is fully illuminated by the sun.

• A new moon occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible, while a full moon occurs when the Earth is between the sun and the moon, fully illuminating it.

• A full moon occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible.

• A full moon occurs when the Earth is between the sun and the moon, making it partially illuminated.

Which season occurs in the Northern Hemisphere when the North Pole is tilted towards the sun?

• Winter

• Summer

• Spring

• Autumn

What is a season?

• A period of time characterized by specific weather patterns and daylight changes, typically categorized as spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

• A time of year when plants grow and flowers bloom, usually associated with spring.

• A phase of the moon that occurs every month, affecting tides and weather.

• A holiday celebrated in different cultures, often marked by festivals and gatherings.