NYSSLS Earth & Space Science Midterm Review

Big Bang theory is supported by evidence showing that most galaxies are moving away from Earth. What is this observation called?

• Blueshift

• Parallax

• Redshift

• Reflection

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

When astronomers observe the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), what do they conclude about the early universe?

• It formed in many separate regions

• It was cold and mostly empty

• It was hot, dense, and uniform

• It was filled with heavy elements

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

According to Hubble’s Law, galaxies that are farther from Earth are moving…

• Slower than closer galaxies

• At the same speed

• Faster than closer galaxies

• Toward Earth

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

What primarily determines how long a star will live and how it will evolve?

• Color

• Density

• Mass

• Size of its planets

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

High-mass stars have shorter lifespans because they…

• Rotate too quickly

• Produce less energy

• Burn fuel faster at higher temperatures

• Do not undergo fusion

Which process powers stars like the Sun by combining lighter elements into heavier ones?

• Fission

• Fusion

• Radioactive decay

• Combustion

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-ESS1-3

Why does fusion stop when a high-mass star begins forming iron in its core?

• Iron blocks gravity

• Iron is unstable

• Iron fusion requires energy instead of releasing it

• Iron instantly explodes

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What usually remains after a low-mass star like the Sun finishes its life cycle?

• Black hole

• Supernova

• White dwarf

• Neutron star

Where does nuclear fusion occur in the Sun?

• Photosphere

• Core

• Convective zone

• Corona

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

Why are sunspots darker than their surroundings?

• They contain dust

• They are cooler than surrounding regions

• They block sunlight

• They reflect less light