Science in the news quiz

Science World, Sept 27, 2002

DIRECTIONS: Read the late-breaking news in our Science News section on pages 4 to 6. Then test your knowledge by answering the questions below. Circle the correct letter.

1. The natural role of wildfire in the ecosystem is to

a. provides heat so plants can grow.

b. clear overgrowth so new plants can flourish.

c. smoke out dangerous animals.

d. scare off tourists.

2. The 2002 fire season was extreme due to

a. a surge of criminal arson.

b. too many campfires.

c. widespread drought.

d. a shortage of firefighters.

3. What Is drought?

a. a period of abnormally dry weather

b. a heat wave

c. a tropical storm

d. charred land

4. Which of the following contribute to drought:

a. high temperatures, wildfires, warm sea-surface temperatures

b. high temperatures, wind patterns, cool sea-surface temperatures

c. high winds, high temperatures, and lightning

d. water evaporating, moist air rising, clouds forming

5. Which of the following is not a primate?

a. gorilla

b. orangutan

c. human

d. cow

6. Which country has the most primate species in the world?

a. Venezuela

b. China

c. Brazil

d. Australia

7. What's an ornithopter?

a. a contraption that flies by flapping its wings

b. an ornate helicopter

c. a toy bird

d. an airplane

8. Upward force on an airplane wing:

a. lift

b. thrust

c. pressure

d. propulsion

TAKE IT FURTHER

9. Check out the National Drought Mitigation Center's online Drought Monitor at www.drought.unl.edu/dm/monitor.html. What are the conditions like in your area?

10. Research another kind of flying machine, such as a glider, a blimp, or a helicopter. How does the contraption fly?

1. b 2. c 3. a 4. b 5. d 6. c 7. a 8. a