FREE WCAS Physical and Life Science Questions and Answer
Which term describes the characteristics that help organisms survive or reproduce in their environment?
Explanation:
Adaptation refers to the traits or characteristics that enable organisms to thrive in their environment by increasing their chances of survival and reproduction.
What term describes an inherited behavior that an organism can perform without ever learning how to do it?
Explanation:
Instinct refers to inherited behaviors that organisms can perform without prior experience or learning. These behaviors are genetically programmed and often aid in survival, such as bird migration or spider web-building.
What term describes a change in a gene's structure that results in a variation of an organism?
Explanation:
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of a gene, which can lead to the production of different proteins or traits in an organism. This variation is the basis for genetic diversity and can sometimes result in adaptations that enhance an organism's survival and reproduction.
What term describes the factors that are kept constant in an experiment each time it is tested?
Explanation:
Controlled variables are the factors in an experiment that are intentionally kept constant or unchanged throughout the testing process. This ensures that any observed changes in the dependent variable (the variable being measured) can be attributed to the manipulation of the independent variable(s) and not to other factors.
Which term describes the physical or behavioral traits that develop during an organism's life in response to environmental factors?
Explanation:
Acquired characteristics are traits that an organism develops during its lifetime in response to environmental influences, rather than being inherited genetically. These traits can include skills learned through experience, changes in behavior, or physical adaptations due to environmental conditions.
What term describes the physical or behavioral traits that are programmed into an organism's DNA and are passed down from parent to offspring?
Explanation:
These are traits passed down from parent to offspring through DNA. Options A, B, and D are not traits passed down through genetics but rather acquired or influenced by the environment or mutations.
Which term describes a behavior that is learned through practice?
Explanation:
A habit is a behavior that is acquired through repetition and practice rather than being inherited genetically (option A) or learned instinctively. While instincts are innate behaviors that organisms can perform without prior learning, habits are developed over time through practice and repetition. Options B and D refer to other types of behaviors: inherited traits are passed down genetically, and reflexes are involuntary responses to stimuli.
Which term best describes the actions or behaviors of an organism that help it survive in its environment?
Explanation:
Behavioral adaptation refers to the way an organism acts or behaves with its environment to help it survive. This can include behaviors such as migration, hibernation, or communication techniques.
Which term describes the variable in an experiment that is intentionally changed or manipulated?
Explanation:
The manipulated variable is the factor in an experiment that is deliberately altered or tested to observe its effect on the dependent variable. It is the variable that researchers actively manipulate to investigate its impact on the outcome of the experiment.
Which term best describes the physical characteristics of an organism that help it survive in its environment?
Explanation:
Physical adaptation refers to the way an organism looks or is built to help it survive in its environment. These are the physical traits like camouflage or sharp teeth that help organisms survive.
Students list ways people at their school can reduce landfill waste.
Ways to Reduce Landfill Waste at Our School
1. Serve lunches on reusable plates
2. Turn in some homework using email
3. Copy worksheets on both sides of the paper
4. Replace paper towels with hand dryers
Which other idea would most likely be included on this list?
Explanation:
This suggestion aligns with the theme of waste reduction and recycling. By adding recycle bins for paper in classrooms, students and teachers can easily separate paper waste from other trash, making it more likely that paper materials will be recycled rather than sent to the landfill. It encourages responsible disposal of paper waste and promotes recycling efforts within the school community.