Science Content Knowledge Flashcards

Which of the following is an example of a chemical change rather than a physical change?

Answer: Burning wood

Burning wood is a chemical change because new substances (CO₂, H₂O, ash) are formed and the reaction is not easily reversible.

In the electromagnetic spectrum, which type of radiation has the shortest wavelength?

Answer: Gamma rays

Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength (and highest frequency/energy) in the electromagnetic spectrum.

What is the term for the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1°C?

Answer: Calorie

A calorie is defined as the amount of heat energy needed to raise 1 gram of water by 1°C at standard atmospheric pressure.

Which phase of mitosis involves the alignment of chromosomes along the cell's equatorial plate?

Answer: Metaphase

During metaphase, chromosomes align at the metaphase plate (cell's equator), ensuring equal distribution during division.

What is the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere?

Answer: Nitrogen

Nitrogen (N₂) makes up approximately 78% of Earth's atmosphere, making it by far the most abundant gas.

According to the Law of Conservation of Energy, which statement is correct?

Answer: The total energy in an isolated system remains constant

The Law of Conservation of Energy states that the total energy in an isolated system remains constant; energy can only be converted between forms.

Which of the following best describes a hypothesis in the scientific method?

Answer: A testable, falsifiable explanation for an observation

A hypothesis is a testable, falsifiable prediction or explanation that can be supported or refuted through experimentation.