Science Earth and Space Science Flashcards
6 cards from real GED practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Science Earth and Space Science flashcards as text
Which layer of Earth's atmosphere is responsible for absorbing most of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation?
Answer: Stratosphere
The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which absorbs 97-99% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting life on Earth.
What causes the seasons on Earth?
Answer: The tilt of Earth's axis relative to its orbit around the Sun
Earth's 23.5° axial tilt causes seasons. When the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, it experiences summer; when tilted away, it experiences winter.
The rock cycle includes three main rock types. Which of the following correctly describes how igneous rock forms?
Answer: From molten magma that cools and solidifies
Igneous rock forms when molten rock (magma underground, lava at the surface) cools and solidifies. Examples include granite and basalt.
What evidence best supports the theory of plate tectonics?
Answer: The complementary shapes of continents and matching fossils across oceans
The matching coastlines of continents (like South America and Africa), identical fossils on opposite sides of oceans, and similar rock formations provide strong evidence that continents were once joined.
Which phase of the Moon occurs when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun?
Answer: New Moon
During a New Moon, the Moon is between Earth and the Sun. The Sun illuminates the far side of the Moon, so from Earth, the Moon appears dark (not visible).
What is the greenhouse effect, and how does it affect Earth's temperature?
Answer: It warms Earth by trapping heat in the atmosphere
Greenhouse gases (CO₂, water vapor, methane) trap infrared radiation emitted by Earth's surface, warming the atmosphere — like glass in a greenhouse.