General Science: Earth and Space Flashcards

What type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

Answer: Igneous

Igneous rock is formed when molten rock material (magma from below the surface or lava from above) cools and hardens. Sedimentary rocks are formed from compacted sediments, and metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks are changed by heat and pressure.

Which planet in our solar system is known for its prominent ring system?

Answer: Saturn

Saturn is famous for its extensive and highly visible ring system, which is the most complex of any planet in our solar system. While other gas giants like Jupiter and Neptune also have rings, they are much fainter and less prominent than Saturn's.

What instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?

Answer: Barometer

A barometer is the scientific instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure, also known as barometric pressure. A thermometer measures temperature, an anemometer measures wind speed, and a hygrometer measures humidity.

The movement of tectonic plates under the ocean can cause a large displacement of water, resulting in what natural phenomenon?

Answer: Tsunami

A tsunami is a series of powerful ocean waves caused by large-scale disturbances of the ocean floor, most commonly underwater earthquakes associated with tectonic plate movement. Hurricanes and tornadoes are atmospheric storms, and tides are caused by gravitational forces.

What is the solid, outermost layer of the Earth called?

Answer: Crust

The Earth is composed of several layers, and the crust is the thinnest, outermost solid layer where all life exists. Below the crust is the much thicker mantle, and at the center is the core.

What is a light-year a measure of?

Answer: Distance

A light-year is a unit of astronomical distance, representing the distance that light travels in one year in a vacuum. It is used to measure the vast distances between stars and galaxies, which are too large to be conveniently measured in miles or kilometers.