Download ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs - Westhampton Beach School District

ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
1. Which statement provides evidence that Earth
revolves around the Sun?
(1) Winds at different latitudes are curved
different amounts by the Coriolis effect.
(2) Different star constellations are visible from
Earth at different seasons of the year.
(3) The Sun follows an apparent arc across the
sky during the day.
(4) The stars appear to circle Earth during the
night.
5. Which photograph of star trails was taken by an
observer facing directly north in New Jersey?
(1)
(2)
2. The diagram below represents the major stars of
the constellation Orion, as viewed by an
observer in New Jersey.
(3)
(4)
Which statement best explains why Orion can
be observed from New York State on December
21 but not on June 21?
(1) Orion has an eccentric orbit around Earth.
(2) Orion has an eccentric orbit around the Sun.
(3) Earth revolves around the Sun.
(4) Earth rotates on its axis.
3. When observed from a location in Maine for
one night, the North Star (Polaris) appears to
(1) rise in the east and set in the west
(2) rise in the west and set in the east
(3) move southward along an arc-shaped path
(4) remain stationary in the sky
4. Which object is closest to Earth?
(1) the Sun
(3) the Moon
(2) Venus
(4) Mars
6. Which statement best explains the apparent
daily motion of the stars around Polaris?
(1) The Earth's orbit is an ellipse.
(2) The Earth has the shape of an oblate
spheroid.
(3) The Earth rotates on its axis.
(4) The Earth revolves around the Sun.
7. Which event takes the most time?
(1) one revolution of Earth around the Sun
(2) one revolution of Venus around the Sun
(3) one rotation of the Moon on its axis
(4) one rotation of Venus on its axis
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
8. The diagram below shows an instrument made
from a drinking straw, protractor, string, and
rock.
This instrument was most likely used to measure
the
(1) distance to a star
(2) altitude of a star
(3) mass of the Earth
(4) mass of the suspended weight
10. How does the position of Polaris appear to
change as an observer travels due north from the
Equator?
(1) The angle of Polaris above the northern
horizon decreases.
(2) The angle of Polaris above the northern
horizon increases.
(3) Polaris appears to move westward.
(4) Polaris appears to move eastward.
11. Based on observations made in the Northern
Hemisphere, which statement is the best
supporting evidence that the Earth rotates on its
axis?
(1) The stars appear to follow daily circular
paths around Polaris.
(2) The apparent solar diameter varies
throughout the year.
(3) The length of the daylight period varies
throughout the year.
(4) The seasons (spring, summer, fall, and
winter) repeat in a cyclic pattern.
12. The diagram below shows several planets at
various positions in their orbits at a particular
time.
9. Base your answer to the following question on
the latitude and longitude system shown below.
The map represents a part of the Earth's surface
and its latitude-longitude coordinates. Points A
through F represent locations in this area.
As a person travels from location B to location E
the observed altitude of Polaris will
(1) decrease
(3) remain the same
(2) increase
Which planet would be visible from the Earth at
night for the longest period of time when the
planets are in these positions?
(1) Mercury
(3) Mars
(2) Venus
(4) Jupiter
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
13. The table below shows the altitude and compass direction of one planet, as viewed by an observer in New York
State at 10 p.m. on the first day of each month from April through November.
Which graph best represents a plot of this planet's apparent path, as viewed by the observer over the 7-month
period?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 14 and 15 on the diagram below, which shows a portion of the solar system.
14. Mercury and Venus are the only planets that show phases when viewed from Earth because both Mercury and
Venus
(1) revolve around the Sun inside Earth's orbit
(3) are eclipsed by Earth's shadow
(2) rotate more slowly than Earth does
(4) pass behind the Sun in their orbit
15. The actual orbits of the planets are
(1) elliptical, with Earth at one of the foci
(2) elliptical, with the Sun at one of the foci
16. If viewed from the Earth over a period of
several years, the apparent diameter of Mars will
(1) decrease constantly
(2) increase constantly
(3) remain unchanged
(4) vary in a cyclic manner
17. A planet was viewed from Earth for several
hours. The diagrams below represent the
appearance of the planet at four different times.
(3) circular, with Earth at the center
(4) circular, with the Sun at the center
18. The same side of the Moon always faces Earth
because the
(1) Moon’s period of rotation is longer than its
period of revolution around Earth
(2) Moon’s period of rotation is shorter than its
period of revolution around Earth
(3) Moon rotates once as it completes one
revolution around Earth
(4) Moon does not rotate as it completes one
revolution around Earth
19. One complete cycle of the phases of the Moon
takes approximately one
(1) day
(3) month
(2) week
(4) year
The best inference that can be made based on
the diagrams is that this planet is
(1) tilted on its axis
(3) revolving
(2) changing seasons (4) rotating
20. The time required for the Moon to show a
complete cycle of phases when viewed from
Earth is approximately
(1) 1 day
(3) 1 month
(2) 1 week
(4) 1 year
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
21. The diagram below shows the Moon orbiting
Earth, as viewed from space above Earth’s
North Pole. The Moon is shown at eight
positions in its orbit.
23. Which sequence of Moon phases could be
observed from Earth during a 2-week period?
(1)
(2)
(3)
An eclipse of the Sun is most likely to occur
when the Moon is in which position?
(1) 1
(3) 5
(2) 3
(4) 7
22. The diagram below shows Earth’s orbit around
the Sun and different positions of the Moon as it
travels around Earth. Letters A through D
represent four different positions of the Moon.
An eclipse of the Moon is most likely to occur
when the Moon is at position
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
(4)
24. The diagram below shows the Moon at four
positions in its orbit around Earth.
An observer on Earth could see a solar eclipse
when the Moon is at position
(1) 1
(3) 3
(2) 2
(4) 4
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
25. The diagram below represents the Sun’s rays striking Earth and the Moon. Numbers 1 through 4 represent
positions of the Moon in its orbit around Earth.
The highest tides on Earth occur when the Moon is in positions
(1) 1 and 3
(2) 2 and 4
(3) 3 and 2
26. The diagram below shows the Moon orbiting
Earth, as viewed from space above Earth’s
North Pole. The Moon is shown at eight
positions in its orbit.
27. What is represented by the diagram below?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Spring ocean tides occur when the difference in
height between high tide and low tide is
greatest. At which two positions of the Moon
will spring tides occur on Earth?
(1) 1 and 5
(3) 3 and 7
(2) 2 and 6
(4) 4 and 8
(4) 4 and 1
changing phases of the Sun
changing phases of the Moon
stages in an eclipse of the Sun
stages in an eclipse of the Moon
28. A cycle of Moon phases can be seen from Earth
because the
(1) Moon’s distance from Earth changes at a
predictable rate
(2) Moon’s axis is tilted
(3) Moon spins on its axis
(4) Moon revolves around Earth
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
29. Base your answer to the following question on the passage below.
A Newly Discovered Planet
Scientists studying a Sun-like star named Ogle-Tr-3 discovered a planet that is, on the average, 3.5
million kilometers away from the star’s surface. The planet was discovered as a result of
observing a cyclic decrease in the brightness of Ogle-Tr-3 every 28.5 hours. The changing
brightness is the result of the planet blocking some of the starlight when it is between Ogle-Tr-3
and Earth. This observation allowed scientists to find not only the planet, but also to determine
the planet’s mass and density The mass has been calculated to be approximately 159 times the
mass of Earth. The planet is only 20% as dense as Jupiter. Scientists think that this low density
is the result of being very close to Ogle-Tr-3.
The planet was discovered when it passed between Earth and the star Ogle-Tr-3. Which event in our solar
system results from a similar type of alignment of the Moon between Earth and the Sun?
(1) summer solstice
(2) winter solstice
(3) solar eclipse
(4) lunar eclipse
30. The diagram below shows the positions of the Moon and the Sun at sunset during an evening in New York State.
Points A, B, C, and D represent positions along the western horizon.
At sunset on the following evening, the Moon will be located at position
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
31. The passage of the Moon into Earth's shadow
causes a
(1) lunar eclipse
(3) new Moon
(2) solar eclipse
(4) full Moon
32. In which direction on the horizon does the Sun
appear to rise on July 4 in Maine?
(1) due north
(3) north of due east
(2) due south
(4) south of due east
(4) D
33. If the distance between the Moon and Earth
were double its present distance, the Moon’s
cycle of phases would occur
(1) in reverse order and more slowly
(2) in reverse order and more quickly
(3) in the same order but more slowly
(4) in the same order but more quickly
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 34 and 35 on the diagram below, which shows the Moon, Earth, and the Sun’s rays as
viewed from space. Letter A indicates a certain position of the Moon in its orbit.
34. Which diagram represents the phase of the Moon, as seen by an observer on Earth, when the Moon is located at
position A in its orbit?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
35. Which diagram correctly shows the direction of Earth’s rotation and revolution?
(1)
(2)
36. The diagram below shows the Moon at four
positions in its orbit around Earth as viewed
from above the North Pole.
(3)
(4)
37. Which statement best explains why different
phases of the Moon can be observed from the
Earth?
(1) The size of the Earth's shadow falling on the
Moon changes.
(2) The Moon moves into different parts of the
Earth's shadow.
(3) Differing amounts of the Moon's sunlit
surface are seen because the Moon revolves
around the Sun.
(4) Differing amounts of the Moon's sunlit
surface are seen because the Moon revolves
around the Earth.
38. The new-moon phase occurs when the Moon is
positioned between the Earth and the Sun.
Beginning with the Moon at position X (the newHowever, these positions do not always cause
Moon phase), which sequence of Moon phases
an eclipse (blocking) of the Sun because the
would be seen by an observer on Earth during 1
(1) Moon's orbit is tilted relative to the Earth's
month?
orbit
(1)
(2) new-moon phase is visible only at night
(3) night side of the Moon faces toward the
(2)
Earth
(4) apparent diameter of the Moon is greatest
during the new-moon phase
(3)
(4)
39. Which motion causes the apparent rising and
setting of the Moon each day, as seen from a
location in Kansas?
(1) the Earth revolving around the Sun
(2) the Moon revolving around the Earth
(3) the Earth rotating on its axis
(4) the Moon rotating on its axis
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
40. The diagrams below represent Earth’s ocean
tides at four different positions of the Moon.
Which diagram shows the Moon position that
will produce the highest high tides and the
lowest iow tides? (The diagrams are not drawn
to scale.)
42. The diagram below represents the Moon in its
orbit, as viewed from above Earth’s North Pole.
Position 1 represents a specific location of the
Moon in its orbit.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Which phase of the Moon will be seen from
Earth when the Moon is at position 1?
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
(4)
41. Which event is a direct result of Earth's
revolution?
(1) the apparent deflection of winds
(2) the changing of the Moon phases
(3) the seasonal changes in constellations
viewed in the night sky
(4) the daily rising and setting of the Sun
43. Summer days in Texas are likely to be hotter
than winter days because in summer
(1) Earth is closer to the Sun
(2) the number of sunspots increases
(3) Earth’s northern axis is tilted toward the Sun
(4) the Sun gives off more energy
44. On which day of the year does Connecticut
have the fewest hours of daylight?
(1) April 21
(3) October 21
(2) June 21
(4) December 21
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 45 and 46 on the diagram below, which has lettered arrows showing the motions of
Earth and the Moon.
45. Which lettered arrow represents the motion that causes the Moon to show phases when view from Earth
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
46. Which two motions are completed in about the same amount of time?
(1) A and B
(2) B and C
(3) C and D
(4) A and D
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 47 through 49 on the world map below, which shows regions of Earth where a solar
eclipse was visible on May 20, 1947. Location A, B, C, and D are on Earth's surface.
47. Which diagram best represents the positions of Earth (E), the Sun, and the Moon that created the solar eclipse?
(Diagrams are not drawn to scale.)
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
48. Which statement best describes the visibility of this eclipse from locations in New York State?
(1) A total eclipse was visible all day.
(2) A total eclipse was visible only from noon until sunset.
(3) A partial eclipse was visible only from noon until sunset.
(4) Neither a partial nor a total eclipse was visible.
49. At which location could an observer have viewed this total solar eclipse if the skies were clear?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to questions 50 and 51 on the graph below. The graph shows the recorded change in water level
(ocean tides) at a coastal city in the northeastern United States during 1 day.
50. According to the pattern shown on the graph, the next high tide will occur on the following day at approximately
(1) 12:30 a.m.
(2) 2:00 a.m.
(3) 3:15 a.m.
(4) 4:00 a.m.
51. Which inference about tides is best made from this graph?
(1) The hourly rate of tidal change is always the same. (3) The tidal change is a random event.
(2) The rate of tidal change is greatest at high tide.
(4) The tidal change is cyclic.
52. The apparent daily path of the Sun changes with
the seasons because
(1) Earth's axis is tilted
(2) Earth's distance from the Sun changes
(3) the Sun revolves
(4) the Sun rotates
53. A student read in a newspaper that the
maximum length of the daylight period for the
year in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, had just been
reached. What was the date of this newspaper?
(1) March 22
(3) September 22
(2) June 22
(4) December 22
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
54. Which diagram sequence correctly shows the order of Moon phases, as viewed from Earth, for a period of 1
month? [Note that some phases have been omitted.]
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 55 through 58 on the graph below, which shows the maximum altitude of the Moon,
measured by an observer located at a latitude of 43° N during June in a particular year. The names and appearance of
the four major Moon phases are shown at the top of the graph, directly above the date on which the phase occurred.
55. Which terms describe both the changes in the maximum altitude of the Moon and the changes in the Moon’s
phases over a period of several years?
(1) cyclic and predictable
(3) noncyclic and predictable
(2) cyclic and unpredictable
(4) noncyclic and unpredictable
56. Which city is closest in latitude to the location where these observations were made?
(1) Binghamton
(2) New York City
(3) Albany
(4) Syracuse
57. Which diagram best represents the Moon’s phase observed on June 11?
(1)
(2)
(3)
58. What was the maximum altitude of the Moon on June 22?
(1) 40°
(2) 43°
(3) 46°
(4)
(4) 50°
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
59. The diagram below shows the Moon orbiting Earth as viewed from space above the North Pole. The Moon is
shown at eight different positions in its orbit.
At which two positions of the Moon is an eclipse of the Sun or Moon possible?
(1) 1 and 5
(2) 2 and 6
(3) 3 and 7
(4) 4 and 8
60. The diagram below shows Earth, the Moon, and the Sun's rays as viewed from space.
For observers on Earth, which phase of the Moon is represented by the diagram?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
61. The diagram below shows the Moon in different positions as it revolves around Earth, as observed from above
the North Pole (NP).
Which image correctly represents the Moon at position 8, as observed from Earth?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 62 through 66 on the diagram below, which represents the Moon orbiting Earth as
viewed from space above the North Pole. The Moon is shown at eight different positions in its orbit.
62. When the Moon is in position 2, which phase would be visible to an observer in Maine?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
63. Which motion causes the Moon to show phases when viewed from Earth?
(1) rotation of Earth
(3) revolution of Earth
(2) rotation of the Sun
(4) revolution of the Moon
64. As the Moon changes location from position 2 to position 6, the visible portion of the Moon as observed from
Earth
(1) decreases, only
(3) decreases, then increases
(2) increases, only
(4) increases, then decreases
65. The approximate time required for the Moon to move from position 3 to position 7 is
(1) 1 hour
(2) 2 weeks
(3) 3 months
(4) 4 days
66. Which device when placed on the Moon would provide evidence of Moon rotation?
(1) Foucault pendulum
(2) seismograph
(3) thermometer
(4) wind vane
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 67 through 70 on the chart below, which shows phases of the Moon as viewed by an
observer on Earth during 1996.
67. What is the approximate diameter of the Moon?
(2) 6.96 × 105 km
(1) 1.74 × 103 km
(3) 3.48 × 103 km
(4) 7.35 × 1022 km
68. Why does the Moon show these phases when viewed by an observer on Earth?
(1) The Moon rotates on its axis.
(3) The Sun lights only half of Earth.
(2) Earth’s orbit is nearly circular.
(4) The Moon revolves around Earth.
69. The Moon goes through a complete cycle of phases approximately every
(1) 14 days
(2) 23 days
(3) 29 days
(4) 365 days
70. During 1996, the maximum intensity of moon-light was received on Earth twice in the month of
(1) February
(2) June
(3) October
(4) December
71. Which diagram most correctly shows the portion of Earth that is illuminated by sunlight and the portion that is in
shadow on the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
72. Base your answer to the following question on the diagram below, which represents a model of the Earth-Moon
system as viewed from above the North Pole. The numbers 1 through 8 represent positions of the Moon as it
revolves around Earth. The parts of the diagram lettered A through D show how the Moon's phases appear to an
observer in New Jersey.
As the Moon's phase changes from first quarter to last quarter, the visible portion of the Moon as observed from
Earth will
(1) decrease, only
(3) decrease, then increase
(2) increase, only
(4) increase, then decrease
73. The diagram below shows Earth on a particular
day in its orbit around the Sun. The dashed line
represents Earth’s axis.
Which date is represented by the diagram?
(1) March 21
(3) September 23
(2) June 21
(4) December 21
74. The diagram below shows the noontime
shadows cast by a student and a tree.
If the time is solar noon and the student is
located in New York State, in what direction is
the student facing?
(1) north
(3) east
(2) south
(4) west
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
75. The diagram below shows the relative positions
of the Earth, Moon, and Sun for a 1-month
period.
77. The diagrams below show the phases of the
Moon as viewed by an observer in New York
State at different times in August.
Which phase could have been observed on
August 17?
Which diagram best represents the appearance
of the Moon at position P when viewed from the
Earth?
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
76. The diagram below shows Earth on a particular
day in its orbit around the Sun. The dashed line
represents Earth’s axis.
What happens to the length of daylight at this
location on this date as you travel from the
Arctic Circle to the Antarctic Circle?
(1) Increases
(2) Decreases
(3) Stays the same
(4) Increases then decreases
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
78. The diagram below shows Earth on a particular
day in its orbit around the Sun. The dashed line
represents Earth’s axis.
Which Earth location is receiving the most
intense insolation?
(1) North Pole
(3) Tropic of Cancer
(2) South Pole
(4) Tropic of Capricorn
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
79. The diagram below shows the shadow cast by a
telephone pole on March 21 at solar noon at a
location in New York State.
Which shadow was cast by the same telephone
pole on December 21 at solar noon?
(1)
(3)
83. The diagram below shows the altitude of the
Sun at solar noon on March 21, as seen by an
observer at 42° N latitude.
Compared to the altitude of the Sun observed at
solar noon on March 21, the altitude of the Sun
observed at solar noon on June 21 will be
(1) 15° higher in the sky
(2) 23.5° higher in the sky
(3) 42° higher in the sky
(4) 48° higher in the sky
84. The diagram below represents Earth at four
different positions, A, B, C, and D, in its orbit
around the Sun.
(2)
(4)
80. The lowest surface air temperatures in the
Southern Hemisphere usually occur during the
month of
(1) January
(3) July
(2) April
(4) October
81. During how many days of a calendar year is the
Sun directly overhead at noon in New Jersey?
(1) only 1 day
(3) 365 days
(2) only 2 days
(4) 0 days
82. Approximately how many degrees per day does
Earth revolve in its orbit around the Sun?
(1) 1°
(3) 15°
(2) 13°
(4) 23.5°
Between which positions would Texas be
experiencing the summer season?
(1) A and B
(3) C and D
(2) B and C
(4) D and A
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 85 and 86 on the world map below. Letters A through D represent locations on Earth’s
surface.
85. At which location on December 21 is the Sun directly overhead at solar noon?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
86. Which location receives 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness on June 21?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
87. Which observation is a direct result of the 23½º
tilt of Earth's axis as Earth orbits the Sun?
(1) Locations on Earth's Equator receive 12
hours
of daylight every day.
(2) The apparent diameter of the Sun shows
predictable changes in size.
(3) A Foucault pendulum shows predictable
shifts in its direction of swing.
(4) Winter occurs in the Southern Hemisphere
at the same time that summer occurs in the
Northern Hemisphere.
88. The tilt of the Earth on its axis is a cause of the
Earth's
(1) uniform daylight hours
(2) changing length of day and night
(3) 24-hour day
(4) 365£-day year
89. To an observer located at the Equator, on which
date would the Sun appear to be directly
overhead at noon?
(1) February 1
(3) March 21
(2) June 6
(4) December 21
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
90. Which graph best represents the average monthly temperatures for one year at a location in the Southern
Hemisphere?
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
91. The diagram below shows the apparent daily path of the Sun, as viewed by an observer at a certain latitude on
three different days of the year.
At which latitude were these apparent Sun paths most likely observed?
(1) 0°
(2) 23.5° N
(3) 43° N
(4) 66.5° N
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
92. A student in New York State looked toward the eastern horizon to observe sunrise at three different times during
the year. The student drew the following diagram that shows the positions of sunrise, A, B, and C, during this
one-year period.
Which list correctly pairs the location of sunrise to the time of the year?
(1) A—June 21
B—March 21
C—December 21
(2) A—December 21
B—March 21
C—June 21
(3) A—March 21
B—June 21
C—December 21
(4) A—June 21
B—December 21
C—March 21
93. The diagram below, which represents a horizon in Pennsylvania, shows four positions of sunrise, A, B, C, and D,
on different days of the year.
At which position would sunrise occur on June 21?
(1) A
(2) B
94. The best evidence that Earth spins on its axis is
the motion of
(1) tectonic plates
(2) Polaris
(3) a wind vane
(4) a Foucault pendulum
(3) C
(4) D
95. A Foucault pendulum appears to change its
direction of swing over a period of several hours
because of Earth’s
(1) rotation
(3) tilted axis
(2) revolution
(4) gravity
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
96. Which diagram best shows the Sun’s apparent path, as seen by an observer on July 21 in New Jersey?
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
97. Which diagram shows the position of the Earth
relative to the Sun's rays during a winter day in
the Northern Hemisphere?
(1)
(3)
(2)
(4)
98. On March 21, at which location in New York
State would sunrise occur first?
(1) Riverhead
(3) Buffalo
(2) Syracuse
(4) Massena
99. The diagram below represents a swinging
Foucault pendulum.
This pendulum will show an apparent change in
the direction of its swing due to Earth’s
(1) curved surface
(3) rotation
(2) tilted axis
(4) revolution
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 100 and 101 on the
104. The diagram below shows the shadow cast by a
diagram below, which represents an exaggerated
telephone pole on March 21 at solar noon at a
view of Earth revolving around the Sun. Letters A, B,
location in New York State.
C, and D represent Earth’s location in its orbit on the
first day of each of the four seasons.
Which shadow was cast by the same telephone
pole on June 21 at solar noon?
100. Which location in Earth’s orbit represents the
first day of fall (autumn) for an observer in
Pennsylvania?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
101. Earth’s rate of revolution around the Sun is
approximately
(1) 1° per day
(3) 15° per hour
(2) 360° per day
(4) 23.5° per hour
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
102. The Coriolis effect causes winds in New York
State to generally curve
(1) to the right of the direction of travel
(2) to the left of the direction of travel
(3) upward away from Earth’s surface
(4) downward toward Earth’s surface
105. Surface ocean currents curve to the right in the
Northern Hemisphere because
(1) the Moon spins on its axis
(2) the Moon travels in an orbit around Earth
(3) Earth spins on its axis
(4) Earth travels in an orbit around the Sun
103. In the Northern Hemisphere, planetary winds
blowing from north to south are deflected, or
curved, toward the west. This deflection is
caused by the
(1) unequal heating of land and water surfaces
(2) movement of low-pressure weather systems
(3) orbiting of Earth around the Sun
(4) spinning of Earth on its axis
106. The length of an Earth day is determined by the
time required for approximately one
(1) Earth rotation
(3) Sun rotation
(2) Earth revolution
(4) Sun revolution
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 107 through 109 on the diagram below, which represents a model of the sky (celestial
sphere) for an observer in New York State. The curved arrow represents the Sun’s apparent path for part of one day.
The altitude of Polaris is also indicated.
107. On which date could this observation of the Sun’s apparent path have been made?
(1) March 21
(2) July 21
(3) October 21
(4) December 21
108. Where is this observer most likely located?
(1) Massena
(2) Oswego
(4) Mt. Marcy
(3) Slide Mountain
109. According to this diagram, what is the Sun’s altitude at solar noon?
(1) 23.5°
(2) 42°
(3) 48°
(4) 90°
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 110 through 112 on the diagram below, which shows the altitude and apparent
position of the noontime Sun, as seen from various latitudes on Earth on a particular day of the year. Letters A
through D represent locations on Earth's surface.
110. Which season will begin at 41° N latitude, three months after the date represented by this diagram?
(1) summer
(2) fall
(3) winter
(4) spring
111. What is the altitude of the noontime Sun at the Equator on this date?
(1) 23¡
(2) 43
(3) 66¡
(4) 90
112. Which lettered location will experience the shortest period of daylight during one Earth rotation on this day?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
113. In New York State, the constellation Pisces can
be seen in the night sky between the middle of
summer and the middle of winter. The
constellation Scorpio can be seen in the night
sky between early spring and early fall. The
reason these two constellations can be viewed
only at these times is a direct result of Earth’s
(1) spin on its axis
(2) movement around the Sun
(3) axis having a 23.5° tilt
(4) distance from the Sun
114. Which observable change would occur in New
York State if Earth’s rate of rotation were onehalf its present rate?
(1) The Sun would rise in the southwest each
day.
(2) The length of a day would be longer.
(3) The time needed to complete a cycle of
Moon phases would be greater.
(4) The seasonal changes would not occur.
115. Units of time are based on Earth's motion
relative to other celestial objects. The year is
best defined as Earth's motion relative to the
(1) asteroids
(3) Moon
(2) Sun
(4) planets
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
116. Which model best represents the apparent path
of the Sun observed at various times during the
year at the Equator?
(1)
Base your answers to questions 119 and 120 on the
diagram below, which shows numbered positions of
the Sun at four different times along the Sun’s
apparent daily path, as seen by an observer in New
Jersey. Numbers 1 through represent apparent
positions of the Sun.
(2)
(3)
(4)
119. During which day of the year is the Sun most
likely to follow the apparent path shown?
(1) March 1
(3) October 1
(2) July 1
(4) December 1
120. The observer had the longest shadow when the
Sun was at position
(1) 1
(3) 3
(2) 2
(4) 4
121. The diagram below represents the direction of
Earth’s rotation as it appears from above the
North Pole. Point X is a location on Earth’s
surface.
117. If the axis of Earth were not tilted relative to the
plane of its orbit around the Sun, the result
would be
(1) a greater number of hours in a day
(2) a greater number of days in a year
(3) a reversal of polar and equatorial climates
(4) an equal number of hours of daylight at most
locations
118. Which change would occur if the Earth's rate of
rotation were to increase?
(1) The year would be shorter.
(2) The day would be shorter.
(3) The year would be longer.
(4) The day would be longer.
The time at point X is closest to
(1) 6 a.m.
(3) 6 p.m.
(2) 12 noon
(4) 12 midnight
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 122 and 123 on the diagram below, which shows the angle of the Sun’s noontime rays
received at different Earth latitudes on May 1.
122. At which latitude can the noontime Sun be observed in the northern part of the sky?
(1) 0°
(2) 30° N
(3) 60° N
(4) 90° N
123. Which changes can be expected to occur at 45° N over the next 30 days?
(1) The duration of insolation will decrease and the temperature will decrease.
(2) The duration of insolation will decrease and the temperature will increase.
(3) The duration of insolation will increase and the temperature will decrease.
(4) The duration of insolation will increase and the temperature will increase.
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 124 through 126 on the diagram below, which shows a model of the apparent path and
position of the Sun in relation to an observer at four different locations, A, B, C, and D, on Earth’s surface on the dates
indicated. The zenith (z) and the actual position of the Sun in the model at the time of the observation are shown. [The
zenith is the point directly over the observer.]
124. From sunrise to sunset at location B, the length of the observer’s shadow will
(1) increase, only
(3) increase, then decrease
(2) decrease, only
(4) decrease, then increase
125. Where on Earth’s surface is the observer at location C located?
(1) at the Equator
(2) at the South Pole
(3) at the North Pole
(4) in Oswego, New York
126. According to the Sun’s actual position shown in the diagrams, the most intense insolation is being received by
the observer at location
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
127. The shaded portion of the map below indicates areas of night and the unshaded portion indicates areas of
daylight.
What day of the year is best represented by the map?
(1) March 21
(2) June 21
(3) September 21
(4) December 21
128. The diagram below represents a plastic hemisphere upon which lines have been drawn to show the apparent
paths of the Sun at a location in New York State on the first day of each season. Letters A through I represent
points on the paths.
Which point represents the sunrise location on the first day of winter?
(1) G
(2) F
(3) E
(4) D
129. What is the total number of degrees that the
130. Which object orbits Earth in both the EarthEarth rotates on its axis during a 12-hour period?
centered (geocentric) and Sun-centered
(heliocentric) models of our solar system?
(1) 1º
(3) 180º
(1) the Moon
(3) Venus
(2) 15º
(4) 360º
(2) the Sun
(4) Polaris
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
131. The maps below show the amount of sea ice surrounding the continent of Antarctica at two different times of the
year. Map A represents late August when the area covered by sea ice approaches its greatest extent. Map B
represents the minimum extent of sea ice.
Which month is most probably represented by map B?
(1) February
(2) May
(3) June
(4) October
132. Base your answer to the following question on the diagram below, which represents the planetary wind and
moisture belts in Earth’s Northern Hemisphere.
The paths of the surface planetary winds are curved due to Earth’s
(1) revolution
(2) rotation
(3) circumference
(4) size
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
133. Base your answer to the following question on the diagram below, which represents the apparent path of the Sun
observed at four locations on Earth's surface on March 21. The present positions of the Sun, Polaris, and the
zenith (position directly overhead) are shown for an observer at each location.
State the approximate time of day for the observer at location B when the Sun is at the position shown in the
diagram.
134. The diagram below represents a simple
geocentric model. Which object is represented
by the letter X?
135. In which type of model are the Sun, other stars,
and the Moon in orbit around the Earth?
(1) heliocentric model (3) concentric model
(2) tetrahedral model (4) geocentric model
136. Which planet’s orbit around the Sun is most
nearly circular?
(1) Mercury
(3) Pluto
(2) Neptune
(4) Venus
(1) Earth
(2) Sun
(3) Moon
(4) Polaris
137. Which planet has an orbital eccentricity most
like the orbital eccentricity of the Moon?
(1) Pluto
(3) Mars
(2) Saturn
(4) Mercury
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
138. In which map does the shaded area correctly represent the part of Earth that receives direct (perpendicular) rays
from the Sun sometime during the year?
(3)
(1)
(2)
139. Which object is located at one foci of the
elliptical orbit of Mars?
(1) the Sun
(3) Earth
(2) Betelgeuse
(4) Jupiter
140. An observer on Earth determines that the
apparent diameter of the Moon as viewed from
Earth varies in a cyclic manner. The best
explanation for this observation is that the
(1) Moon is rotating
(2) Moon’s orbit is elliptical
(3) atmospheric transparency of the Moon
changes
(4) distance between the Moon and the Sun
changes
(4)
141. The shape of the orbits of most of the planets in
the solar system would best be described as
(1) elliptical and very elongated
(2) parabolic
(3) nearly circular
(4) perfectly circular
142. In what way are the planets Mars, Mercury, and
Earth similar?
(1) They have the same period of revolution.
(2) They are perfect spheres.
(3) They exert the same gravitational force on
each other.
(4) They have elliptical orbits with the Sun at
one focus.
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
143. Which graph best represents the angle of the
Sun above the horizon as observed from 6 a.m.
to 6 p.m. on September 23 at a location in New
York State?
(1)
Base your answers to questions 145 through 147 on
the diagram below, which represents latitude and
longitude lines on Earth. Points A through E represent
locations on Earth. Arrows represent direction of
rotation.
(2)
(3)
(4)
145. At which location will the Sun reach the highest
angle above the horizon at solar noon?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) E
(4) D
146. Which location has the longest duration of
insolation on December 21?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) E
144. Which observation is a direct result of changes 147. When the local time at location C is 3 p.m., the
local time at location D is
in distance between Earth and the Sun?
(1) 1 p.m.
(3) 3 p.m.
(1) A Foucault pendulum shows predictable
changes in its direction of swing.
(2) 5 p.m.
(4) 3 a.m.
(2) The apparent diameter of the Sun shows
predictable changes in size.
(3) The length of daylight at the poles changes 148. The actual shape of the Earth's orbit around the
Sun is best described as
from 0 to 24 hours during the year.
(4) Summer occurs in the Northern Hemisphere
(1) a very eccentric ellipse
at the same time that winter occurs in the
(2) a slightly eccentric ellipse
Southern Hemisphere.
(3) an oblate spheroid
(4) a perfect circle
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
149. A student accurately measured the altitude of the noontime Sun from the same New Jersey location on four days
during the school year. Which sequence best shows these measurements?
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
150. The period of time a planet takes to make one
151. When the distance between the foci of an ellipse
revolution around the Sun is most dependent on
is increased, the eccentricity of the ellipse will
the planet's average
(1) decrease
(3) remain the same
(1) rotation rate
(2) increase
(2) mass
(3) insolation from the Sun
152. The elliptical shape of the Earth's orbit results in
(4) distance from the Sun
(1) changes in the orbital velocity of the Earth
(2) tilting of the Earth's axis
(3) the oblate spheroid shape of the Earth
(4) the phases of the Moon
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
153. The diagram below represents a Foucault
pendulum swinging freely for 8 hours.
155. The diagram below represents an activity in
which an eye dropper was used to place a drop
of water on a spinning globe. Instead of flowing
due south toward the target point, the drop
followed a curved path and missed the target.
The Foucault pendulum appears to gradually
change its direction of swing due to Earth’s
(1) orbit around the Sun (3) tilted axis
(2) curved surface
(4) spin on its axis
154. Which diagram correctly shows how surface
winds are deflected (curved) in the Northern and
Southern Hemispheres due to Earth's rotation?
The actual path results from
(1) the tilt of the globe's axis
(2) the Coriolis effect
(3) the globe's revolution
(4) dynamic equilibrium
156. The diagram below shows Earth as viewed from
above the North Pole (NP). Points A and B are
locations on Earth's surface.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
At location A, the time is 12 noon. What is the
time at location B?
(1) 6 a.m.
(3) 3 p.m.
(2) 6 p.m.
(4) 12 midnight
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
157. The diagram below shows some examples of how surface winds are deflected in the Northern and Southern
Hemispheres because of Earth's rotation.
Earth's rotation causes winds to be deflected to the
(1) right in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres
(2) right in the Northern Hemisphere and left in the Southern Hemisphere
(3) left in the Northern Hemisphere and right in the Southern Hemisphere
(4) left in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres
158. The diagram below shows the latitude-longitude 159. Which diagram best represents a portion of the
grid on an Earth model. Points A and B are
heliocentric model of the solar system? [S =
locations on the surface.
Sun, E = Earth, and M = Moon]
(1)
(3)
(2)
On Earth, the solar time difference between
point A and point B would be
(1) 1 hour
(3) 12 hours
(2) 5 hours
(4) 24 hours
(4)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
160. Base your answer to the following question on the diagram below, which shows Earth's planetary wind belts and
pressure belts.
The surface winds shown in the diagram follow curving paths mainly due to Earth's
(1) revolution
(2) rotation
(3) gravitational field
(4) magnetic field
161. The diagram below shows the elliptical orbit of 162. The diagram below represents the elliptical orbit
a planet revolving around a star. The star and F2
of a moon revolving around a planet. The foci of
are the foci of this ellipse.
this orbit are the points labeled F1 and F2.
What is the approximate eccentricity of this
ellipse?
(1) 0.22
(3) 0.68
(2) 0.47
(4) 1.47
What is the approximate eccentricity of this
elliptical orbit?
(1) 0.3
(3) 0.7
(2) 0.5
(4) 1.4
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 163 and 164 on the
165. Base your answer to the following question on
diagram below. The diagram represents the Earth at a
the diagram below which shows twelve
position in orbit around the Sun, the Sun's rays at
constellations that are visible in the night sky to
solar noon, and the direction to Polaris. Letters A
an observer in New Jersey, over the course of a
through D represent positions on the Earth's surface.
year. Different positions of Earth are
represented by letters A through D. The arrows
represent the direction of Earth's motion around
the Sun.
163. A projectile is launched from a point near the
North Pole toward the Equator. Which diagram
best represents the apparent path of the
projectile, as viewed from the Earth?
Which constellations are both visible at
midnight to an observer in New Jersey when
Earth is located at position D?
(1) Aries and Taurus
(2) Pisces and Libra
(3) Leo and Virgo
(4) Aquarius and Scorpio
166. Which diagram shows a planet with the least
eccentric orbit?
(1)
(3)
( Key: • = planet * = star )
(3)
(1)
(2)
(4)
164. What is the latitude of position A?
(1) 23¡º N
(3) 66¡º N
(2) 47º N
(4) 90º N
(4)
(2)
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
167. Letters A, B, C, D, and X on the map below represent locations on Earth. The map shows the latitude-longitude
grid.
Solar time is based on the position of the Sun. If the solar time is 1 p.m. at location X, at which location is the
solar time 5 p.m.?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to questions 168 and 169 on the diagram below, which shows sunlight entering a room through the
same window at three different times on the same winter day.
168. This room is located in a building in Connecticut. On which side of the building is the window located?
(1) north
(2) south
(3) east
(4) west
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
169. The apparent change in the Sun’s position shown in the diagram is best explained by
(1) the Sun rotating at a rate of 15° per hour
(3) the Sun’s axis tilted at an angle of 23¡°
(2) Earth rotating at a rate of 15° per hour
(4) Earth’s axis tilted at an angle of 23¡°
170. Base your answer to the following question on the map below. Letters A through F are locations on Earth’s
surface.
When solar time at location E is 12 noon, solar time at location A is closest to
(1) 6 a.m.
(2) 8 a.m.
(3) 12 noon
(4) 4 p.m.
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
171. The diagram below shows one model of a
portion of the universe.
172. Base your answer to the question below on the
diagram below. The diagram represents the path
of a planet orbiting a star. Points A, B, C, and D
indicate four orbital positions of the planet.
When viewed by an observer on the planet, the
star has the largest apparent diameter at position
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
What type of model does the diagram best
demonstrate?
(1) a heliocentric model, in which celestial
objects orbit Earth
(2) a heliocentric model, in which celestial
objects orbit the Sun
(3) a geocentric model, in which celestial
objects orbit Earth
(4) a geocentric model, in which celestial
objects orbit the Sun
173. The diagram below represents the Earth's orbital
path around the Sun. The Earth takes the same
amount of time to move from A to B as from C
to D.
Which values are equal within the system?
(1) The shaded sections of the diagram are equal
in area.
(2) The distance from the Sun to the Earth is the
same at point A and at point D.
(3) The orbital velocity of the Earth at point A
equals its orbital velocity at point C.
(4) The gravitational force between the Earth
and the Sun at point B is the same as the
gravitational force at point D.
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Base your answers to questions 174 and 175 on the diagram of the solar system below.
174. Which kind of model of the solar system is represented by the diagram?
(1) heliocentric model
(2) geocentric model
(3) sidereal model
(4) lunar model
175. According to Kepler's Harmonic Law of Planetary Motion, the farther a planet is located from the Sun, the
(1) shorter its period of rotation
(3) longer its period of rotation
(2) shorter its period of revolution
(4) longer its period of revolution
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Answer Key
1.
2
26.
1
51.
4
76.
1
2.
3
27.
3
52.
1
77.
4
3.
4
28.
4
53.
2
78.
4
4.
3
29.
3
54.
2
79.
2
5.
1
30.
1
55.
1
80.
3
6.
3
31.
1
56.
4
81.
4
7.
1
32.
4
57.
3
82.
1
8.
2
33.
3
58.
3
83.
2
9.
3
34.
1
59.
1
84.
1
10.
2
35.
3
60.
1
85.
2
11.
1
36.
2
61.
4
86.
3
12.
3
37.
4
62.
2
87.
4
13.
1
38.
1
63.
4
88.
2
14.
1
39.
3
64.
4
89.
3
15.
2
40.
1
65.
2
90.
3
16.
4
41.
3
66.
1
91.
3
17.
4
42.
4
67.
3
92.
1
18.
3
43.
3
68.
4
93.
1
19.
3
44.
4
69.
3
94.
4
20.
3
45.
4
70.
2
95.
1
21.
1
46.
3
71.
1
96.
1
22.
2
47.
2
72.
4
97.
4
23.
3
48.
4
73.
4
98.
1
24.
4
49.
3
74.
1
99.
3
25.
1
50.
2
75.
4
100.
3
ASTRONOMY REVIEW Qs
Answer Key
101.
1
126.
1
151.
2
102.
1
127.
4
152.
1
103.
4
128.
4
153.
4
104.
2
129.
3
154.
3
105.
3
130.
1
155.
2
106.
1
131.
1
156.
1
107.
1
132.
2
157.
2
108.
3
133. 2:30 pm () 1 hour)
158.
2
109.
3
134.
1
159.
3
110.
4
135.
4
160.
2
111.
3
136.
4
161.
3
112.
1
137.
2
162.
3
113.
2
138.
4
163.
4
114.
2
139.
1
164.
4
115.
2
140.
2
165.
3
116.
2
141.
3
166.
1
117.
4
142.
4
167.
2
118.
2
143.
4
168.
2
119.
2
144.
2
169.
2
120.
4
145.
1
170.
2
121.
3
146.
2
171.
3
122.
1
147.
2
172.
1
123.
4
148.
2
173.
1
124.
4
149.
1
174.
1
125.
3
150.
4
175.
4