NeSA NeSA Science 3

Question 1

Which scientific principle explains why populations with favorable traits survive and reproduce more successfully over generations?

Accepted Answer

Natural selection

Answer

Genetic mutation

Answer

Selective breeding

Answer

Genetic drift

Question 2

In a controlled experiment, what is the variable that the scientist deliberately changes or manipulates?

Accepted Answer

Independent variable

Answer

Dependent variable

Answer

Controlled variable

Answer

Constant variable

Question 3

What is the term for the minimum amount of energy needed to start a chemical reaction?

Accepted Answer

Activation energy

Answer

Thermal energy

Answer

Potential energy

Answer

Bond energy

Question 4

Which Earth science concept describes the slow movement of tectonic plates that causes earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges?

Accepted Answer

Plate tectonics

Answer

Erosion

Answer

Rock cycle

Answer

Continental weathering

Question 5

What does the law of conservation of energy state about energy in a closed system?

Accepted Answer

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed

Answer

Energy is constantly created from matter

Answer

Energy can be created but not destroyed

Answer

Energy is destroyed when it converts to heat

Question 6

Which structure in a plant cell is NOT found in an animal cell and gives the plant rigid support?

Accepted Answer

Cell wall

Answer

Cell membrane

Answer

Nucleus

Answer

Cytoplasm

Question 7

In the rock cycle, what process transforms existing rocks into metamorphic rocks?

Accepted Answer

Heat and pressure deep within Earth's crust

Answer

Cooling and solidification of magma

Answer

Deposition and compaction of sediments

Answer

Weathering and erosion by wind and water