ICAS Earth and Environmental Science 4

Question 1

Which factor most directly determines whether a tropical storm becomes a hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean?

Accepted Answer

Wind speeds reaching at least 74 mph (119 km/h)

Answer

A tropical cyclone is classified as a hurricane when sustained wind speeds reach 74 mph (119 km/h) or greater.

Question 2

What is the main difference between weather and climate?

Accepted Answer

Weather describes short-term atmospheric conditions; climate describes long-term patterns

Answer

Weather refers to day-to-day atmospheric conditions, while climate describes the average patterns of weather in a region over decades.

Question 3

Which process forms metamorphic rocks?

Accepted Answer

Heat and pressure transforming existing rocks

Answer

Metamorphic rocks form when existing rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure deep within the crust, changing their mineral structure.

Question 4

What is an aquifer?

Accepted Answer

A layer of permeable rock that holds and transmits groundwater

Answer

An aquifer is a permeable underground rock formation that stores and allows water to flow through it, serving as a major freshwater source.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why deforestation contributes to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Accepted Answer

Trees release stored carbon when burned or decomposed, and fewer trees remain to absorb CO₂

Answer

Deforestation releases carbon stored in trees through burning/decay and reduces the forest's capacity to absorb atmospheric CO₂ through photosynthesis.

(ICAS) ICAS Practice Test

(ICAS) ICAS Practice Test

ICAS Earth and Environmental Science 4