CAST Testing Specialized Technologies 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which simple machine is represented by a doorknob turning a latch mechanism?
- Inclined plane
- Wheel and axle (Correct answer)
- Pulley
- Wedge
Correct answer: Wheel and axle
A doorknob is a wheel-and-axle device where turning the larger knob rotates the smaller axle to operate the latch.
Question 2: On the CAST Reading for Information section, an inference question asks you to do what?
- Find a word stated word-for-word
- Draw a logical conclusion supported by the passage (Correct answer)
- Count the paragraphs
- Identify the author's name
Correct answer: Draw a logical conclusion supported by the passage
Inference questions require reasoning to a conclusion that the passage implies but does not state directly.
Question 3: If a hydraulic system has a small piston and a large piston, pushing the small piston produces what effect at the large piston?
- Greater force over a shorter distance (Correct answer)
- Less force over a longer distance
- No change in force
- The large piston moves faster
Correct answer: Greater force over a shorter distance
Hydraulic systems multiply force, so the large piston exerts greater force but moves a shorter distance than the small piston.
Question 4: In Graphic Arithmetic, if a tank holds 500 gallons and a gauge shows it is one-quarter full, how many gallons remain?
- 125 gallons (Correct answer)
- 250 gallons
- 375 gallons
- 100 gallons
Correct answer: 125 gallons
One-quarter of 500 gallons equals 125 gallons remaining in the tank.
Question 5: Which factor increases the friction between two surfaces in a mechanical system?
- A smoother, polished surface
- A lubricant film between them
- A rougher surface texture (Correct answer)
- Reducing the normal force
Correct answer: A rougher surface texture
A rougher surface texture increases friction, while smoothing, lubricating, or reducing pressing force decreases it.
Question 6: On the CAST test, what is the best strategy for the Mechanical Concepts section if you are unsure of an answer?
- Leave it blank to avoid penalty
- Eliminate clearly wrong options, then choose the most likely (Correct answer)
- Always choose the longest answer
- Pick the first option every time
Correct answer: Eliminate clearly wrong options, then choose the most likely
Since there is no penalty for guessing on the CAST, eliminating wrong choices and selecting the most plausible answer improves your odds.
Question 7: A spring is compressed and then released. What type of energy is stored in the compressed spring?
- Kinetic energy
- Thermal energy
- Potential (elastic) energy (Correct answer)
- Electrical energy
Correct answer: Potential (elastic) energy
A compressed spring stores elastic potential energy that converts to kinetic energy when released.
CAST Testing Specialized Technologies 3
Which simple machine is represented by a doorknob turning a latch mechanism?