CTBS - Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills Science Concepts Questions and Answers

Question 1

A roller coaster car is stopped at the very peak of its highest hill. Which statement best describes the energy of the car at this moment?

Accepted Answer

It has maximum potential energy and minimum kinetic energy.

Answer

It has equal amounts of potential and kinetic energy.

Answer

It has maximum kinetic energy and minimum potential energy.

Answer

It has no potential or kinetic energy.

Question 2

In a forest ecosystem, which of the following is an example of a producer?

Accepted Answer

An oak tree using sunlight to make its own food.

Answer

A deer eating leaves from a bush.

Answer

A wolf hunting a deer.

Answer

A mushroom breaking down a dead log.

Question 3

What is the process by which water vapor in the atmosphere cools and turns back into liquid water, forming clouds?

Accepted Answer

Condensation

Answer

Evaporation

Answer

Precipitation

Answer

Transpiration

Question 4

A student observes several changes in a science lab. Which of the following observations describes a chemical change?

Accepted Answer

A piece of wood burns and turns into ash.

Answer

An ice cube melts into a puddle of water.

Answer

A glass beaker shatters on the floor.

Answer

Sugar dissolves in a cup of hot tea.

Question 5

Hereditary information that is passed from one generation to the next is carried by which structures found within the nucleus of a cell?

Accepted Answer

Chromosomes

Answer

Mitochondria

Answer

Ribosomes

Answer

Cell membranes

Question 6

Which of the following best describes how an igneous rock is formed?

Accepted Answer

From the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.

Answer

From the compaction and cementation of layers of sediment.

Answer

From the transformation of existing rock by heat and pressure.

Answer

From the weathering and erosion of a mountain range.