Science Flashcards

Which process is primarily responsible for the oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere?

Answer: Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the biological process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and releasing oxygen as a byproduct. This process is responsible for generating nearly all the oxygen present in Earth's atmosphere.

What is the main function of the roots in a plant?

Answer: To absorb water and nutrients

The primary function of a plant's roots is to anchor the plant firmly in the soil and, most importantly, to absorb water and essential mineral nutrients from the soil. These absorbed substances are then transported to other parts of the plant to support growth and other metabolic processes.

Which layer of Earth is composed mostly of liquid iron and nickel?

Answer: Outer core

The Earth's outer core is a liquid layer composed primarily of molten iron and nickel. This layer is responsible for generating Earth's magnetic field through the convection currents of its metallic fluid, distinguishing it from the solid inner core and the rocky mantle and crust.

What type of energy transformation occurs in a solar panel?

Answer: Light to electrical

Solar panels, specifically photovoltaic cells, are designed to convert light energy (from the sun) directly into electrical energy. This process involves photons striking the semiconductor material in the panel, exciting electrons and creating an electric current, without an intermediate thermal or mechanical step.

Which of the following best describes the function of the mitochondria in a cell?

Answer: They generate energy.

Mitochondria are often referred to as the 'powerhouses' of the cell because their primary function is to generate the majority of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the main energy currency of the cell, produced through cellular respiration to fuel various cellular activities.