AFCT General Science: Earth and Space 2

Question 1

What causes the seasons on Earth?

Accepted Answer

The tilt of Earth's axis at 23.5 degrees relative to its orbital plane

Answer

Earth's seasons result from the 23.5-degree tilt of its rotational axis. As Earth orbits the Sun, different hemispheres receive more direct sunlight at different times of year, creating seasons.

Question 2

What type of rock is formed from cooled and solidified magma or lava?

Accepted Answer

Igneous rock

Answer

Igneous rocks form when molten rock (magma underground or lava at the surface) cools and crystallizes. Examples include granite (intrusive/slow cooling) and basalt (extrusive/fast cooling).

Question 3

What is the main composition of the Sun?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen and helium

Answer

The Sun is composed of approximately 73% hydrogen and 25% helium by mass, with the remaining 2% being heavier elements. Nuclear fusion in the core converts hydrogen into helium, producing the Sun's energy.

Question 4

What layer of Earth's atmosphere contains the ozone layer that protects life from harmful UV radiation?

Accepted Answer

Stratosphere

Answer

The ozone layer is found in the stratosphere, roughly 15-35 km above Earth's surface. Ozone (O3) molecules absorb most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet-B and ultraviolet-C radiation.

Question 5

What drives the movement of tectonic plates on Earth?

Accepted Answer

Convection currents in the mantle

Answer

Tectonic plates are driven primarily by convection currents in Earth's mantle. Heat from the core causes mantle rock to slowly circulate, with hotter material rising and cooler material sinking, dragging plates along.

(AFCT) Armed Forces Classification Test Practice Test

(AFCT) Armed Forces Classification Test Practice Test

AFCT General Science: Earth and Space 2