Download Space, Earth and Celestial Objects Test Prep

Space, Earth and Celestial Objects Test Prep
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?
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
The apparent daily movement of the Sun across the sky is caused by
1 Earth’s rotation on its axis
2 Earth’s revolution around the Sun
3 the Sun’s revolution around Earth
4 the Sun’s rotation during a 24-hour period
The diagram below, which represents a horizon in New York State, 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
(3) C
(4) D
On which day of the year does New York State have the fewest hours of daylight?
1 April 21
2 June 21
3 October 21
4 December 21
Base your answers to the following 2 questions using the Earth Science Reference Tables, the map below,
and your knowledge of Earth science. Letters A through F are locations on Earth’s surface.
Ocean currents at location A move clockwise, and ocean currents at location B move counterclockwise.
These currents curve due to Earth’s
1 internal structure
2 magnetic field
3 rotation
4 revolution
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?
A Foucault pendulum appears to change its direction of swing due to the
(1) tilt of Earth’s axis
(2) spin of Earth on its axis
(3) deflection of Earth’s planetary winds
(4) movement of Earth in its orbit around the Sun
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.
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the diagram below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The diagram shows a pin perpendicular to a card. The card was placed outdoors in the sunlight on a
horizontal surface. The positions of the pin’s shadow on the card were recorded several times on March 21
by an observer in New York State.
Which diagram best represents the length of the pin’s shadow at 2 p.m. on March 21?
The changing location of the pin’s shadow on March 21 is caused by
(1) the Sun’s rotation
(2) the Sun’s revolution
(3) Earth’s rotation
(4) Earth’s revolution
On June 21, the card and pin were placed in the same position as they were on March 21. The diagram below
shows the positions of the pin’s shadow.
Which statement best explains the decreased length of each shadow on June 21?
(1) The Sun’s apparent path varies with the seasons.
(2) The Sun’s distance from Earth varies with the seasons.
(3) The intensity of insolation is lower on June 21.
(4) The duration of insolation is shorter on June 21.
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
Base your answers to the following 4 questions on the diagram in your answer booklet, which shows Earth as
seen from above the North Pole. The curved arrows show the direction of Earth’s motion. The shaded
portion represents the nighttime side of Earth. Some of the latitude and longitude lines have been labeled.
Points A and B represent locations on Earth’s surface.
On the diagram above, draw a curved arrow, starting at point B, showing the general direction that planetary
surface winds flow between 30° N and 60° N latitude.
If it is 4:00 p.m. at point B, what is the time at point A?
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Identify one possible date that is represented by the diagram.
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Explain why the angle of insolation at solar noon is greater at point B than at point A.
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The model below shows the apparent path of the Sun on 3 days at a certain location in New York State.
What could be the Sun’s apparent path at this location on March 21?
1 along path A-A′
2 south of path A-A′
3 along path B-B′
4 north of path C-C′
Which diagram best represents the location of Polaris for an observer located at the Equator?
The diagram below shows four positions of a planet in its orbit around the Sun.
At which position is the planet’s orbital speed greatest?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
If Earth’s axis were tilted 35° instead of 23.5°, the average temperatures in New York State would most
likely
(1) decrease in both summer and winter
(2) decrease in summer and increase in winter
(3) increase in summer and decrease in winter
(4) increase in both summer and winter
Which star has a higher luminosity and a lower temperature than the Sun?
(1) Rigel
(2) Barnard’s Star
(3) Alpha Centauri
(4) Aldebaran
Starlight from distant galaxies provides evidence that the universe is expanding because this starlight shows
a shift in wavelength toward the
(1) red-light end of the visible spectrum
(2) blue-light end of the visible spectrum
(3) ultraviolet-ray end of the electromagnetic spectrum
(4) gamma-ray end of the electromagnetic spectrum
The diagram below represents the elliptical orbit of a moon revolving around a planet. The foci of this orbit
are the points labeled F1 and F2.
What is the approximate eccentricity of this elliptical orbit?
(1) 0.3
(2) 0.5
(3) 0.7
(4) 1.4
The coldest climates on Earth are located at or near the poles primarily because Earth’s polar regions
(1) receive mostly low-angle insolation
(2) receive less total yearly hours of daylight
(3) absorb the greatest amount of insolation
(4) are usually farthest from the Sun
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
(2) south
(3) east
(4) west
Which color of the visible spectrum has the shortest wavelength?
(1) violet
(2) blue
(3) yellow
(4) red
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the diagram below, which represents an exaggerated view
of Earth revolving around the Sun. Letters A, B, C, and D represent Earth’s location in its orbit on the first
day of each of the four seasons.
Which location in Earth’s orbit represents the first day of fall (autumn) for an observer in New York State?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Earth’s rate of revolution around the Sun is approximately
(1) 1° per day
(2) 360° per day
(3) 15° per hour
(4) 23.5° per hour
Which observation provides the best evidence that Earth revolves around the Sun?
(1) Stars seen from Earth appear to circle Polaris.
(2) Earth’s planetary winds are deflected by the Coriolis effect.
(3) The change from high ocean tide to low ocean tide is a repeating pattern.
(4) Different star constellations are seen from Earth at different times of the year.
The diagram below shows an observer on Earth measuring the altitude of Polaris.
What is the latitude of this observer?
(1) 90° N
(2) 66.5° N
(3) 43° N
(4) 23.5° N
Compared to other groups of stars, the group that has relatively low luminosities and relatively low
temperatures is the
(1) Red Dwarfs
(2) White Dwarfs
(3) Red Giants
(4) Blue Supergiants
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.
The time at point X is closest to
(1) 6 a.m.
(2) 12 noon
(3) 6 p.m.
(4) 12 midnight
The diagram below represents the route of a ship traveling from New York City to Miami, Florida. Each
night, a passenger on the ship observes Polaris.
Which statement best describes the observed changes in the altitude of Polaris made by the passenger during
voyage?
1 Each night the altitude decreases in the northern sky.
2 Each night the altitude decreases in the southern sky.
3 Each night the altitude increases in the northern sky.
4 Each night the altitude increases in the southern sky.
Which observation is a direct result of the 23½° 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.
An observer on Earth measured the apparent diameter of the Sun over a period of 2 years. Which graph best
represents the Sun’s apparent diameter during the 2 years?
The graph below shows the relative amount of radiation energy gained and lost by Earth’s surface at all
latitudes in July and January.
Which statement best explains the differences between the July and January values shown on the graph?
1 The ozone layer changes position.
2 The temperature of Earth remains constant.
3 The position of maximum insolation on Earth’s surface changes.
4 The location of heat flow from Earth’s interior changes.
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
The diagram below shows information needed to use Eratosthenes’ method to find the circumference of a
planet. At noon, a vertical stick at the planet’s equator casts no shadow. At a location farther north, another
vertical stick casts a shadow that makes an angle of 25° with the rays of the Sun. The distance between the
two sticks is 2,000 kilometers.
What is the approximate circumference of this planet?
(1) 18,800 km
(2) 28,800 km
(3) 36,200 km
(4) 50,000 km
During how many days of a calendar year is the Sun directly overhead at noon in New York State?
(1) only 1 day
(2) only 2 days
(3) 365 days
(4) 0 days
Which diagram best represents the wavelength of most of the sunlight energy absorbed and the wavelength
of infrared energy reradiated by the roof of a building at 2 p.m. on a clear summer day?
The North Star (Polaris) can be used for navigation in Earth’s Northern Hemisphere because
1 Polaris is located directly over the Tropic of Cancer
2 Polaris is the brightest and most easily located star
3 the altitude of Polaris is equal to the observer’s latitude
4 the position of Polaris changes with the seasons
Which statement correctly describes the motion on which an Earth time interval is based?
1 Earth’s year is based on the Sun’s revolution.
2 Earth’s year is based on Earth’s rotation.
3 Earth’s day is based on the Sun’s revolution.
4 Earth’s day is based on Earth’s rotation.
Which observation is a direct result of changes in distance between Earth and the Sun?
1 A Foucault pendulum shows predictable changes in its direction of swing.
2 The apparent diameter of the Sun shows predictable changes in size.
3 The length of daylight at the poles changes from 0 to 24 hours during the year.
4 Summer occurs in the Northern Hemisphere at the same time that winter occurs in the Southern
Hemisphere.
Which statement about Polaris is best illustrated by the diagrams shown below?
(1) Polaris is located in a winter constellation.
(2) Polaris is located at the zenith at each location.
(3) Polaris’ apparent movement through the sky follows a south-to-north orientation.
(4) Polaris’ altitude is equal to a location’s latitude.
The diagram below represents the shape of the Milky Way Galaxy.
The Milky Way Galaxy is best described as
(1) elliptical
(2) irregular
(3) circular
(4) spiral
Compared to the temperature and luminosity of the star Polaris, the star Sirius is
(1) hotter and more luminous
(2) hotter and less luminous
(3) cooler and more luminous
(4) cooler and less luminous
The Big Bang Theory, describing the creation of the universe, is most directly supported by the
(1) redshift of light from distant galaxies
(2) presence of volcanoes on Earth
(3) apparent shape of star constellations
(4) presence of craters on Earth’s Moon
Base your answers to the following three questions on the world map below, which shows regions of Earth
where a solar eclipse was visible on May 20, 1947. Locations A, B, C, and D are on Earth’s surface.
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
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.
Which diagram best represents the positions of Earth (E), the Sun, and the Moon (M) that created the solar
eclipse? (Diagrams are not drawn to scale.)
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which represents an asteroid’s
elliptical orbit around the Sun. The dashed line is the major axis of the ellipse.
Place a circle, O, on the orbital path where the velocity of the asteroid would be the least.
The Sun is located at one focal point of the orbit. Place an X on the diagram at the location of the second
focal point.
The diagram below shows the elliptical orbit of a planet revolving around a star. The star and F2 are the foci
of this ellipse.
What is the approximate eccentricity of this ellipse?
(1) 0.22
(2) 0.47
(3) 0.68
(4) 1.47
In October, observers in New York State looking due south at the night sky would see a different group of
constellations than they had seen in March. What is the best explanation for this change in the night sky?
(1) Constellations revolve around Earth.
(2) Constellations revolve around the Sun.
(3) The Sun revolves around the center of our galaxy.
(4) Earth revolves around the Sun.
Which process transfers energy primarily by electromagnetic waves?
(1) radiation
(2) evaporation
(3) conduction
(4) convection
Base your answers to the following three questions on the passage below and on your knowledge of Earth
science.
The Future of the Sun
Hydrogen gas is the main source of fuel that powers the nuclear reactions that occur in the Sun. But just like
many sources of fuel, the hydrogen is in limited supply. As the hydrogen gas is used up, scientists predict
that the helium created as an end product of earlier nuclear reactions will begin to fuel new nuclear reactions.
When this happens, the Sun is expected to become a red giant star with a radius that would extend out past
the orbit of Venus and possibly out as far as Earth’s orbit. Earth will probably not survive this change in the
Sun’s size. But no need to worry at this time. The Sun is not expected to expand to this size for a few billion
years.
Identify the nuclear reaction referred to in this passage that combines hydrogen gas to form helium and
produces most of the Sun’s energy.
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On the diagram of the planets and the Sun’s surface below, draw a vertical line to represent the inferred
location of the Sun’s surface when it becomes a red giant star.
Explain why a red giant star, similar to Aldebaran, has a greater luminosity than the Sun.
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Base your answers to the following three questions on the passage below and on your knowledge of Earth
science.
Asteroids
Most known asteroids are found orbiting the Sun approximately halfway between the orbits of Mars
and Jupiter, in a vast ring known as the Asteroid Belt. Occasionally, though, an asteroid leaves this orbit belt
and moves into a more eccentric orbit that brings it into the inner solar system. This sudden change may be
caused by an impact with another asteroid or by the gravitational pull of Jupiter or Mars.
The closest known near-Earth collision was in 1994, when asteroid 1994 XL1 came within the
Moon’s orbit at a distance of 100,000 kilometers from Earth. Earth had missed hitting this asteroid by a mere
52 minutes. This asteroid was only about 15 hours away from Earth when it was first noticed. Only 30 feet in
diameter, 1994 XL1 was 100,000 times fainter than an object that could be seen with the naked eye. Each
year other asteroids are spotted coming close to Earth.
Evidence on Earth indicates that some asteroids have come close enough to be drawn into Earth by
gravitational attraction. A 110-mile-wide crater discovered by oil geologists under the Yucatan Peninsula and
the Gulf of Mexico is one such piece of evidence. This crater is closely linked to the extinction of the
dinosaurs. Some scientists estimate that a 10-mile-wide asteroid caused this crater.
Approximately how many million kilometers from the Sun is the Asteroid Belt?
State one probable reason why asteroid 1994 XL1 was so close to Earth before being spotted by astronomers.
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Some scientists believe an asteroid impact on Earth caused the extinction of the last of the dinosaurs. How
many million years ago did this asteroid impact occur?
Scientists can plan to photograph a solar eclipse because most astronomical events are
(1) cyclic and predictable
(2) cyclic and unpredictable
(3) random and predictable
(4) random and unpredictable
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
Approximately how many degrees per day does Earth revolve in its orbit around the Sun?
(1) 1°
(2) 13°
(3) 15°
(4) 23.5°
Compared with our Sun, the star Betelgeuse is
(1) smaller, hotter, and less luminous
(2) smaller, cooler, and more luminous
(3) larger, hotter, and less luminous
(4) larger, cooler, and more luminous
Astronomers viewing light from distant galaxies observe a shift of spectral lines toward the red end of the
visible spectrum. This shift provides evidence that
(1) orbital velocities of stars are decreasing
(2) Earth’s atmosphere is warming
(3) the Sun is cooling
(4) the universe is expanding
Most of the solar radiation absorbed by Earth’s surface is later radiated back into space as which type of
electromagnetic radiation?
(1) x ray
(2) ultraviolet
(3) infrared
(4) radio wave
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows an inferred sequence
in which our solar system formed from a giant interstellar cloud of gas and debris. Stage A shows the
collapse of the gas cloud, stage B shows its flattening, and stage C shows the sequence that led to the
formation of planets.
From stage B to stage C, the young Sun was created
(1) when gravity caused the center of the cloud to contract
(2) when gravity caused heavy dust particles to split apart
(3) by outgassing from the spinning interstellar cloud
(4) by outgassing from Earth’s interior
After the young Sun formed, the disk of gas and dust
(1) became spherical in shape
(2) formed a central bulge
(3) became larger in diameter
(4) eventually formed into planets
Base your answers to the following three questions on the world map below. The shaded portion of the map
indicates areas of night, and the unshaded portion indicates areas of daylight on a certain day of the year.
Dashed latitude lines represent the Arctic Circle (66.5° N) and the Antarctic Circle (66.5° S). Point A is a
location on Earth’s surface.
Which diagram shows the position of Earth relative to the Sun’s rays on this day?
Approximately how many hours of daylight would occur at position A on this day?
(1) 6
(2) 9
(3) 12
(4) 15
On this day, the duration of daylight from the equator to the Arctic Circle
(1) decreases, only
(2) increases, only
(3) decreases, then increases
(4) increases, then decreases
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram in your answer booklet. The diagram
shows the positions of Halley’s Comet and Asteroid 134340 at various times in their orbits. Specific orbital
positions are shown for certain years.
The eccentricity of the asteroid’s orbit is 0.250. On the orbital diagram below, mark the position of the
second focus of the asteroid’s orbit by placing an X on the major axis at the proper location.
Determine which was traveling faster, Halley’s Comet or the asteroid, between the years 1903 and 1908.
State one reason for your choice.
Explain why Halley’s Comet is considered to be part of our solar system.
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Base your answers to the following three questions on the data table below. A student recorded the hours of
daylight and the altitude of the Sun at noon on the twenty-first day of every month for one year in Buffalo,
New York.
On the graph below, draw a line to represent the general relationship between the altitude of the Sun at noon
and the number of hours of daylight throughout the year at Buffalo.
The sky model diagram below shows the apparent path of the Sun on March 21 for an observer in Buffalo,
New York. Draw a line to represent the apparent path of the Sun from sunrise to sunset at Buffalo on May
21. Be sure your path indicates the correct altitude of the noon Sun and begins and ends at the correct
positions on the horizon.
On the same sky model diagram above, place an asterisk (Q) at the apparent position of the North Star as
seen from Buffalo.
Which altitude of Polaris could be observed in New York State?
(1) 23°
(2) 35°
(3) 44°
(4) 90°
Which statement provides the best evidence that Earth revolves around the Sun?
1 The Sun follows an apparent daily path, rising in the east and setting in the west.
2 A Foucault pendulum appears o shift its direction of swing in a predictable manner.
3 The stars appear to follow circular paths around the North Star (Polaris).
4 The seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter repeat in a pattern.
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
2 Sun
3 Moon
4 planets
Differences in Earth’s orbital velocity around the Sun are caused primarily by changes in the
1 inclination of Earth’s axis
2 rate of rotation of Earth
3 distance between Earth and the Sun
4 oblate spheroid shapes of Earth and the Sun
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the diagram
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The diagram represents the Sun’s apparent path in relation to a
house on June 21 and on December 21.
What is the most likely location of the house shown in the diagram?
1 Australia
2 North Pole
3 South America
4 North America
For the roof of this house, which color would absorb the most insolation and also reradiate the most energy?
1 white
2 green
3 grey
4 black
Which factor is a cause of the difference in the noontime altitude of the Sun on June 21 and December 21?
1 the tilt of Earth’s axis
2 the Sun’s apparent diameter
3 Earth’s changing distance from the Sun
4 the Sun’s period of rotation
On a clear day, the house will receive the greatest intensity of solar electromagnetic radiation in the form of
1 infrared radiation
2 ultraviolet radiation
3 visible light radiation
4 radio radiation
On which side of the house should a solar collector be installed to absorb the greatest amount of insolation?
1 north
2 south
3 east
4 west
A black hole is a celestial feature believed to have a mass millions of times the mass of our Sun and a
diameter less than the diameter of Earth. An object of such high mass and small volume would have
1 a very low density
2 a very high density
3 an elliptical orbit with the Sun at one focal point
4 an elliptical orbit with Earth at one focal point
When observed from a location in New York State 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
Most of the energy radiated by Earth’s surface at night is in the form of
(1) infrared rays
(2) ultraviolet rays
(3) visible light rays
(4) x rays
The diagram below shows the percentage of sunlight reflected by different Earth surfaces when the Sun is
directly overhead.
Which material reflects the least sunlight?
1 forest
2 beach
3 ocean
4 snow
On which two dates could all locations on Earth have equal hours of day and night?
1 September 23 and December 21
2 December 21 and March 21
3 March 21 and June 21
4 March 21 and September 23
When viewed from Earth, the light from very distant galaxies shows a red shift. This is evidence that these
distant galaxies are
(1) revolving around the Sun
(2) revolving around the Milky Way
(3) moving away from Earth
(4) moving toward Earth
Which type of electromagnetic energy has the longest wavelength?
(1) infrared radiation
(2) radio wave radiation
(3) ultraviolet radiation
(4) x-ray radiation
The symbols below are used to represent different regions of space.
Which diagram shows the correct relationship between these four regions? [If one symbol is within another
symbol, that means it is part of, or included in, that symbol.]
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.
Base your answers to the following three questions on the world map below. Letters A through D represent
locations on Earth’s surface.
At which location could an observer not see Polaris in the night sky at any time during the year?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which location receives 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness on June 21?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
At which location on December 21 is the Sun directly overhead at solar noon?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Base your answers to the following four questions on the table below, which shows eight inferred stages
describing the formation of the universe from its beginning to the present time.
How soon did protons and neutrons form after the beginning of the universe?
(1) 10–43 second
(2) 10–32 second
(3) 10–6 second
(4) 13.7 billion years
What is the most appropriate title for this table?
(1) The Big Bang Theory
(2) The Theory of Plate Tectonics
(3) The Law of Superposition
(4) The Laws of Planetary Motion
According to this table, the average temperature of the universe since stage 3 has
(1) decreased, only
(2) increased, only
(3) remained the same
(4) increased, then decreased
Between which two stages did our solar system form?
(1) 1 and 3
(2) 3 and 5
(3) 6 and 7
(4) 7 and 8
Base your answers to the following four questions on the topographic map shown below. Letters A, B, C, D,
and E represent locations on Earth’s surface. Letters K, L, M, and N are locations along Copper Creek.
Elevations are measured in meters.
What is the elevation of location A?
Calculate the gradient between points B and C and label your answer with the correct units.
On the grid below, construct a topographic profile along line DE by plotting an X for the elevation of each
contour line that crosses line DE. Connect the Xs with a smooth, curved line to complete the profile.
Explain how the map indicates that Copper Creek flows faster between points N and M than between points
L and K.
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How many times will the Sun’s perpendicular rays cross Earth’s Equator between March 1 of one year and
March 1 of the next year?
(1) 1
(2) 2
(3) 3
(4) 4
Which star’s surface temperature is closest to the temperature at the boundary between Earth’s mantle and
core?
(1) Sirius
(2) Rigel
(3) the Sun
(4) Betelgeuse
The diagram below shows a standard spectrum compared to a spectrum produced from a distant star.
Which conclusion can be made by comparing the standard spectrum to the spectrum produced from this
distant star?
(1) The star’s spectral lines have shifted toward the ultraviolet end of the spectrum and the star is moving
toward Earth.
(2) The star’s spectral lines have shifted toward the ultraviolet end of the spectrum and the star is moving
away from Earth.
(3) The star’s spectral lines have shifted toward the infrared end of the spectrum and the star is moving
toward Earth.
(4) The star’s spectral lines have shifted toward the infrared end of the spectrum and the star is moving away
from Earth.
Base your answers to the following three questions 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.
According to this diagram, what is the Sun’s altitude at solar noon?
(1) 23.5°
(2) 42°
(3) 48°
(4) 90°
Where is this observer most likely located?
(1) Massena
(2) Oswego
(3) Slide Mountain
(4) Mt. Marcy
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
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram provided below. The diagram shows a
model of Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Two motions of Earth are indicated. Distances to the Sun are given
for two positions of Earth in its orbit.
On the diagram provided below, place an X on Earth’s orbit to indicate Earth’s position on May 21.
Explain why New York State experiences summer when Earth is at its greatest distance from the Sun.
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Which two stars have the most similar luminosity and temperature?
(1) Betelgeuse and Barnard’s Star
(2) Rigel and Betelgeuse
(3) Alpha Centauri and the Sun
(4) Sirius and Procyon B
The diagram below shows the noontime shadow cast by a vertical post located in New York State.
Which letter indicates a location west of the post?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
On March 21, at which location in New York State would sunrise occur first?
(1) Riverhead
(2) Syracuse
(3) Buffalo
(4) Massena
Earth is farthest from the Sun during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, and Earth is closest to the Sun
during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter. During which season in the Northern Hemisphere is Earth’s
orbital velocity greatest?
(1) winter
(2) spring
(3) summer
(4) fall
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.
The time at point X is closest to
(1) 9 a.m.
(2) 12 noon
(3) 9 p.m.
(4) 12 midnight
Which part of the Sun’s electromagnetic spectrum has the longest wavelength?
(1) radio wave radiation
(2) infrared radiation
(3) visible light radiation
(4) x-ray radiation
A camera was placed outside at night and pointed directly at Polaris and several other stars. The lens was
kept open and a time-exposure photograph was taken. The diagram below represents that photograph of
Polaris and star trails, with an angular protractor to measure apparent motion.
How many hours was the lens kept open to create the star trails in this photograph?
(1) 1 hour
(2) 6 hours
(3) 3 hours
(4) 4 hours
Base your answers to the following three questions 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.
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
What is the altitude of the noontime Sun at the Equator on this date?
(1) 23 °
(2) 43°
(3) 66 °
(4) 90°
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
Base your answers to the following two questions on the information below and on your knowledge of Earth
science.
Accurate observations of the Sun were made by a New York State observer. This person observed the time
of sunrise and the position of sunrise along the eastern horizon for each day during the month of May.
Describe how the time of sunrise changed for the observer each day during the month of May.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
State the actual Earth motion that causes the Sun to appear to rise each day.
______________________________________________________________________________________
Which diagram correctly shows the apparent motion of Polaris from sunset to midnight for an observer in
northern Canada?
The diagram below shows the types of electromagnetic energy given off by the Sun. The shaded part of the
diagram shows the approximate amount of each type actually reaching Earth’s surface.
Which conclusion is best supported by the diagram?
(1) All types of electromagnetic energy reach Earth’s surface.
(2) Gamma rays and x rays make up the greatest amount of electromagnetic energy reaching Earth’s surface.
(3) Visible light makes up the greatest amount of electromagnetic energy reaching Earth’s surface.
(4) Ultraviolet and infrared radiation make up the greatest amount of electromagnetic energy reaching
Earth’s surface.
Base your answers to the following two questions on the graph below, which shows changes in the Sun’s
magnetic activity and changes in the number of sunspots over a period of approximately 100 years. Sunspots
are dark, cooler areas within the Sun’s photosphere that can be seen from Earth.
The graph indicates that years having the greatest number of sunspots occur
(1) randomly and unpredictably
(2) precisely at the beginning of each decade
(3) in a cyclic pattern, repeating approximately every 6 years
(4) in a cyclic pattern, repeating approximately every 11 years
Which graph best represents the relationship between the number of sunspots and the amount of magnetic
activity in the Sun?
The apparent rising and setting of the Sun, as viewed from Earth, is caused by
(1) Earth’s rotation
(2) Earth’s revolution
(3) the Sun’s rotation
(4) the Sun’s revolution
In which direction on the horizon does the Sun appear to rise on July 4 in New York State?
(1) due north
(2) due south
(3) north of due east
(4) south of due east
Which graph best represents the change in gravitational attraction between the Sun and a comet as the
distance between them increases?
A major belt of asteroids is located between Mars and Jupiter. What is the approximate average distance
between the Sun and this major asteroid belt?
(1) 110 million kilometers
(2) 220 million kilometers
(3) 390 million kilometers
(4) 850 million kilometers
Which diagram represents the approximate altitude of Polaris as seen by an observer located in Syracuse,
New York?
In the diagram below, the spectral lines of hydrogen gas from three galaxies, A, B, and C, are compared
to the spectral lines of hydrogen gas observed in a laboratory.
What is the best inference that can be made concerning the movement of galaxies A, B, and C?
(1) Galaxy A is moving away from Earth, but galaxies B and C are moving toward Earth.
(2) Galaxy B is moving away from Earth, but galaxies A and C are moving toward Earth.
(3) Galaxies A, B, and C are all moving toward Earth.
(4) Galaxies A, B, and C are all moving away from Earth.
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which represents the position of
the Sun with respect to Earth’s surface at solar noon on certain dates. The latitudes of six locations on the
same line of longitude are shown. The observer is located at 42° N in New York State. The date for the Sun
at position A has been deliberately left blank.
At which New York State location could the observer be located?
(1) Plattsburgh
(2) Mount Marcy
(3) New York City
(4) Slide Mountain
When the Sun is at position A, which latitude receives the most direct rays of the Sun?
(1) Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N)
(2) Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S)
(3) Equator (0°)
(4) Antarctic Circle (66.5° S)
When the Sun is at the March 21 position, New York State will usually have
(1) longer days than nights
(2) 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness
(3) the lowest annual altitude of the Sun at solar noon
(4) the highest annual altitude of the Sun at solar noon
Base your answers to the following four questions on the diagram below, which represents an exaggerated
model of Earth’s orbital shape. Earth is closest to the Sun at one time of year (perihelion) and farthest from
the Sun at another time of year (aphelion).
State the actual geometric shape of Earth’s orbit.
________________________________________________
Identify the season in the Northern Hemisphere when Earth is at perihelion.
________________________________________________
Describe the change that takes place in the apparent size of the Sun, as viewed from Earth, as Earth moves
from perihelion to aphelion.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
State the relationship between Earth’s distance from the Sun and Earth’s orbital velocity.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
A person in New York State worked outdoors in sunlight for several hours on a day in July. Which type of
clothing should the person have worn to absorb the least electromagnetic radiation?
(1) dark colored with a rough surface
(2) dark colored with a smooth surface
(3) light colored with a rough surface
(4) light colored with a smooth surface
The diagram below represents Earth at a specific position in its orbit as viewed from space. The shaded area
represents nighttime.
Which Earth latitude receives the greatest intensity of insolation when Earth is at the position shown in the
diagram?
(1) 0°
(2) 23 °N
(3) 66 ° N
(4) 90° N
Which star color indicates the hottest star surface temperature?
(1) blue
(2) white
(3) yellow
(4) red
The table below shows the duration of insolation (hours of daylight) measured by four observers, W, X, Y,
and Z, at four different Earth latitudes on both March 21 and June 21. There were clear skies at all four
latitudes on both days.
Which observer was located at the Equator?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
The diagram below represents Earth at four different positions, A, B, C, and D, in its orbit around the Sun.
Between which positions would New York State be experiencing the summer season?
(1) A and B
(2) B and C
(3) C and D
(4) D and A
The diagram below shows a classroom demonstration. Two identical flashlights were placed in the positions
shown and they illuminated areas of varying size, A and B, on a classroom globe. Thermometers were then
placed at the center of each illuminated area to measure the rate of temperature increase. Readings were
taken over a period of 30 minutes.
Students most likely observed that the temperature of area A increased at a
(1) slower rate than the temperature of area B because area A received rays that were less concentrated
(2) slower rate than the temperature of area B because area A received rays that were more slanted
(3) faster rate than the temperature of area B because area A received rays that were more perpendicular to
the surface
(4) faster rate than the temperature of area B because area A received rays with less total energy
The table below shows gravitational data for a planet traveling in an elliptical orbit around a star. The table
shows the relative gravitational force between the star and this planet at eight positions in the orbit (letters
A through H). Higher numbers indicate stronger gravitational attraction.
Which diagram best represents the positions of the planet in its orbit that would produce the gravitational
forces shown in the data table?
Base your answers to the following two questions 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 York
State. Numbers 1 through 4 represent apparent positions of the Sun.
The observer had the longest shadow when the Sun was at position
(1) 1
(2) 2
(3) 3
(4) 4
During which day of the year is the Sun most likely to follow the apparent path shown?
(1) March 1
(2) July 1
(3) October 1
(4) December 1
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows the altitude of the
Sun at solar noon on certain dates. The positions of the Sun, labeled A, B, and C, were measured by an
observer at 42° north latitude. The date when the Sun was observed at position A has been deliberately left
blank.
Which season begins in New York State when the noontime Sun is observed at position A?
__________________________________
Position B represents the Sun’s position at solar noon on March 21.
On what other date of the year would the noontime Sun be observed at position B?
__________________________________
What is the total change in altitude that occurs as the noontime Sun appears to move from position A to
position C?
Which form of electromagnetic radiation has a wavelength of 1.0 ×10–3 centimeter?
(1) ultraviolet
(2) infrared
(3) radio waves
(4) microwaves
On June 21, where will the Sun appear to rise for an observer located in New York State?
(1) due west
(2) due east
(3) north of due east
(4) south of due east
In each diagram below, the mass of the star is the same. In which diagram is the force of gravity greatest
between the star and the planet shown?
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 June 21 at solar noon?
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows two possible
sequences in the life cycle of stars, beginning with their formation from nebular gas clouds in space.
According to the diagram, the life-cycle path followed by a star is determined by the star’s initial
(1) mass and size
(2) temperature and origin
(3) luminosity and color
(4) luminosity and structure
Stars like Earth’s Sun most likely formed directly from a
(1) nebula
(2) supernova
(3) red giant
(4) black dwarf
According to the diagram, a star like Earth’s Sun will eventually
(1) explode in a supernova
(2) become a black hole
(3) change into a white dwarf
(4) become a neutron star
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram provided below, which represents the
Sun’s rays striking Earth at a position in its orbit around the Sun.
On the diagram provided above, neatly and accurately shade the area of Earth that is in darkness.
On the diagram provided above, draw the line of latitude that is receiving the Sun’s direct perpendicular rays
on this date.
What month of the year is represented by the diagram? ______________________________
Using the “Luminosity and Temperature of Stars” graph in the Earth Science Reference Tables, list the five
stars below in order of decreasing relative luminosity, with letter a being the brightest.
Aldebaran, Betelgeuse, Polaris, Sirius, the Sun
Base your answers to the following three questions on diagram 1 below and on diagram 2 below, which show
some constellations in the night sky viewed by a group of students. Diagram 1 below shows the positions of
the constellations at 9:00 p.m. Diagram 2 below shows their positions two hours later.
Circle Polaris on diagram 2 provided above.
In which compass direction were the students facing? _______________________________________
Describe the apparent direction of movement of the constellations Hercules and Perseus during the two hours
between student observations.
To an observer in Buffalo, New York, the North Star, Polaris, is always located above the northern
horizon at an altitude of approximately
(1) 23 ½°
(2) 43°
(3) 66 ½°
(4) 90°
What is the basic difference between ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation?
(1) half-life
(2) temperature
(3) wavelength
(4) wave velocity
The diagram below illustrates three stages of a current theory of the formation of the universe.
A major piece of scientific evidence supporting this theory is the fact that wavelengths of light from galaxies
moving away from Earth in stage 3 are observed to be
(1) shorter than normal (a red shift)
(2) shorter than normal (a blue shift)
(3) longer than normal (a red shift)
(4) longer than normal (a blue shift)
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which represents Earth at a
specific position in its orbit as viewed from space. The shaded area represents nighttime. Points A and B are
locations on Earth’s surface.
a State the month in which Earth is at the position shown in the diagram.
b State the latitude that receives the most intense radiation from the Sun when Earth is at this position in its
orbit.
Describe the length of daylight at point A compared to the length of daylight at point B on the day
represented by the diagram.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
The model of Earth provided below represents Earth in its orbit 6 months later. On the model shown below
• draw the position of Earth’s axis and label the axis
• label the North Pole
• draw the position of Earth’s Equator and label the Equator
At which location will the highest altitude of the star Polaris be observed?
(1) Equator
(2) Tropic of Cancer
(3) Arctic Circle
(4) central New York State
Which star is cooler and many times brighter than Earth’s Sun?
(1) Barnard’s Star
(2) Betelgeuse
(3) Rigel
(4) Sirius
Energy is transferred from the Sun to Earth mainly by
(1) molecular collisions
(2) density currents
(3) electromagnetic waves
(4) red shifts
Compared to dull and rough rock surfaces, shiny and smooth rock surfaces are most likely to cause sunlight
to be
(1) reflected
(2) refracted
(3) scattered
(4) absorbed
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which shows the tilt of Earth on its
axis in relation to the Sun on one particular day. Points A through E are locations on Earth’s surface. Point D
is located in New York State. The dashed line represents Earth’s axis.
Which diagram best represents the angle of the Sun’s rays received at location C at noon on this day?
What is the latitude of location A?
(1) 0°
(2) 23 ½° N
(3) 63 ½° S
(4) 90° N
On this day, which location has the greatest number of hours of daylight?
(1) E
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which graph best represents the force of gravity between Earth and the Sun during one revolution of Earth
around the Sun?
Which celestial feature is largest in actual size?
(1) the Moon
(2) Jupiter
(3) the Sun
(4) the Milky Way
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows the angle of the Sun’s
noontime rays received at different Earth latitudes on May 1.
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.
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
Which model best represents the apparent path of the Sun observed at various times during the year at the
Equator?
The graph below represents the brightness and temperature of stars visible from Earth.
Which location on the graph best represents a star with average brightness and temperature?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
The diagram below represents the major stars of the constellation Orion, as viewed by an observer in New
York State.
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.
A student read in a newspaper that the maximum length of the daylight period for the year in Syracuse, New
York, had just been reached. What was the date of this newspaper?
(1) March 22
(2) June 22
(3) September 22
(4) December 22
In a Doppler red shift, the observed wavelengths of light from distant celestial objects appear closer to the
red end of the spectrum than light from similar nearby celestial objects. The explanation for the red shift is
that the universe is presently
(1) contracting, only
(2) expanding, only
(3) remaining constant in size
(4) alternating between contracting and expanding
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?
Base your answers to the following four questions on the diagram below. The diagram 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.
The observer at location A casts a shadow at the time represented in the diagram.
a State the compass direction in which the observer at location A must look to view her shadow.
b Describe the change in the length of the shadow that will occur between the time shown and sunset.
State the approximate time of day for the observer at location B when the Sun is at the position shown in the
diagram.
Explain why the intensity of sunlight at noon on March 21 is greater at location C than at the other locations.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
The observer at location D is located at a higher latitude than the other three observers.
State one way that this conclusion can be determined from the diagram.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
State the other day of the year when the Sun’s apparent path is exactly the same as that shown for these four
locations on March 21.
_______________________________________________
The dashed line on the map below shows a ship’s route from Long Island, New York, to Florida.
As the ship travels south, the star Polaris appears lower in the northern sky each night.
The best explanation for this observation is that Polaris
(1) rises and sets at different locations each day
(2) has an elliptical orbit around Earth
(3) is located directly over Earth’s Equator
(4) is located directly over Earth’s North Pole
On June 21, some Earth locations have 24 hours of daylight. These locations are all between the latitudes of
(1) 0° and 23 ½° N
(2) 23 ½° N and 47° N
(3) 47° N and 66 ½° N
(4) 66 ½° N and 90° N
The Milky Way galaxy is best described as
(1) a type of solar system
(2) a constellation visible to everyone on Earth
(3) a region in space between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter
(4) a spiral-shaped formation composed of billions of stars
In which list are the forms of electromagnetic energy arranged in order from longest to shortest wavelengths?
(1) gamma rays, x rays, ultraviolet rays, visible light
(2) radio waves, infrared rays, visible light, ultraviolet rays
(3) x rays, infrared rays, blue light, gamma rays
(4) infrared rays, radio waves, blue light, red light
Base your answers to the following three questions on the diagram below, which represents the elliptical
orbit of a planet traveling around a star. Points A, B, C, and D are four positions of this planet in its orbit.
The calculated eccentricity of this orbit is approximately
(1) 0.1
(2) 0.2
(3) 0.3
(4) 0.4
The gravitational attraction between the star and the planet will be greatest at position
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
As the planet revolves in orbit from position A to position D, the orbital velocity will
(1) continually decrease
(2) continually increase
(3) decrease, then increase
(4) increase, then decrease
Base your answers to the following two questions on the graph below and on the “Luminosity and
Temperature of Stars” graph in the Earth Science Reference Tables. The graph below shows the inferred
stages of development of the Sun, showing luminosity and surface temperature at various stages.
Describe the changes in luminosity of the Sun that will occur from its current Main Sequence stage to its
final White Dwarf stage.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Which star shown on the “Luminosity and Temperature of Stars” graph in the Earth Science Reference
Tables is currently at the Sun’s final predicted stage of development?
_______________________________________
The redshift of light from distant galaxies provides evidence that the universe is
(1) shrinking, only
(2) expanding, only
(3) shrinking and expanding in a cyclic pattern
(4) remaining the same size
Base your answers to the following two questions on the map below, which shows the latitude and longitude
of five observers, A, B, C, D, and E, on Earth.
What is the altitude of Polaris (the North Star) above the northern horizon for observer A?
(1) 0°
(2) 10°
(3) 80°
(4) 90°
Which two observers would be experiencing the same apparent solar time?
(1) A and C
(2) B and C
(3) B and E
(4) D and E
Base your answers to the following three questions 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.]
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
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
From sunrise to sunset at location B, the length of the observer’s shadow will
(1) increase, only
(2) decrease, only
(3) increase, then decrease
(4) decrease, then increase
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows sunlight entering a
room through the same window at three different times on the same winter day.
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
(2) Earth rotating at a rate of 15° per hour
(3) the Sun’s axis tilted at an angle of 23 ½°
(4) Earth’s axis tilted at an angle of 23 ½°
This room is located in a building in New York State. On which side of the building is the window located?
(1) north
(2) south
(3) east
(4) west
Base your answers to the following four questions on your knowledge of Earth science and on the table
below, which lists the seven brightest stars, numbered 1 through 7, in the constellation Orion. This
constellation can be seen in the winter sky by an observer in New York State. The table shows the celestial
coordinates for the seven numbered stars of Orion.
On the grid provided below, graph the data shown in the table by following the steps below.
a Mark with an X, the position of each of the seven stars. Write the number of the plotted star beside each X.
The first star has been plotted for you.
b Show the apparent shape of Orion by connecting the Xs in the following order:
5–1–2–7–3–4–5–6–7
Star 1 plotted on the grid is the star Betelgeuse. Star 3 plotted on the grid is the star Rigel. How do the
temperature and luminosity of Betelgeuse compare to the temperature and luminosity of Rigel?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
The seven stars of the constellation Orion that were plotted are located within our galaxy. Name the galaxy
in which the plotted stars of Orion are located.
____________________________________________________
State one reason why an observer in New York State can never observe the constellation Orion at midnight
during July but can observe the constellation Orion at midnight during January.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Space, Earth and Celestial Objects Test Prep
Teacher Answer Key – Guide
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?
If the axis of Earth were not tilted relative to the plane of its orbit around the Sun, the result would be
4 an equal number of hours of daylight at most locations
The apparent daily movement of the Sun across the sky is caused by
1 Earth’s rotation on its axis
The diagram below, which represents a horizon in New York State, shows four positions of sunrise, A, B, C,
and D, on different days of the year.
(1) A
On which day of the year does New York State have the fewest hours of daylight?
4 December 21
Ocean currents at location A move clockwise, and ocean currents at location B move counterclockwise.
These currents curve due to Earth’s
3 rotation
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?
A Foucault pendulum appears to change its direction of swing due to the
(2) spin of Earth on its axis
Which statement provides evidence that Earth revolves around the Sun?
(2) Different star constellations are visible from Earth at different seasons of the year.
The diagram shows a pin perpendicular to a card. The card was placed outdoors in the sunlight on a
horizontal surface. The positions of the pin’s shadow on the card were recorded several times on March 21
by an observer in New York State. Which diagram best represents the length of the pin’s shadow at 2 p.m. on
March 21?
The changing location of the pin’s shadow on March 21 is caused by
(3) Earth’s rotation
On June 21, the card and pin were placed in the same position as they were on March 21. The diagram below
shows the positions of the pin’s shadow. Which statement best explains the decreased length of each shadow
on June 21?
(1) The Sun’s apparent path varies with the seasons.
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?
(3) 43° N
On the diagram above, draw a curved arrow, starting at point B, showing the general direction that planetary
surface winds flow between 30° N and 60° N latitude.
An arrow should begin at point B and curve to the northeast or curve to the right.
Allow credit even if the arrow is not curved or if it does not start at point B, but is drawn from
southwest to northeast.
Note: Do not allow credit if the arrow extends past the 60° north latitude line.
Example response:
If it is 4:00 p.m. at point B, what is the time at point A?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— 12 noon
— noon
— 12 p.m.
Identify one possible date that is represented by the diagram.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— March 20, 21, or 22
— September 21, 22, 23, or 24
— equinox
Explain why the angle of insolation at solar noon is greater at point B than at point A.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— B is located at a lower latitude.
— B is located closer to the equator.
— A is farther north.
— A is located at a greater distance from the latitude receiving direct Sun rays on this day.
The model below shows the apparent path of the Sun on 3 days at a certain location in New York State. What
could be the Sun’s apparent path at this location on March 21?
3 along path B-B′
Which diagram best represents the location of Polaris for an observer located at the Equator?
The diagram below shows four positions of a planet in its orbit around the Sun. At which position is the
planet’s orbital speed greatest?
(2) B
If Earth’s axis were tilted 35° instead of 23.5°, the average temperatures in New York State would most
likely
(3) increase in summer and decrease in winter
Which star has a higher luminosity and a lower temperature than the Sun?
(4) Aldebaran
Starlight from distant galaxies provides evidence that the universe is expanding because this starlight shows
a shift in wavelength toward the
(1) red-light end of the visible spectrum
The diagram below represents the elliptical orbit of a moon revolving around a planet. The foci of this orbit
are the points labeled F1 and F2. What is the approximate eccentricity of this elliptical orbit?
(3) 0.7
The coldest climates on Earth are located at or near the poles primarily because Earth’s polar regions
(1) receive mostly low-angle insolation
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
Which color of the visible spectrum has the shortest wavelength?
(1) violet
Which location in Earth’s orbit represents the first day of fall (autumn) for an observer in New York State?
(3) C
Earth’s rate of revolution around the Sun is approximately
(1) 1° per day
Which observation provides the best evidence that Earth revolves around the Sun?
(4) Different star constellations are seen from Earth at different times of the year.
The diagram below shows an observer on Earth measuring the altitude of Polaris.
What is the latitude of this observer?
(2) 66.5° N
Compared to other groups of stars, the group that has relatively low luminosities and relatively low
temperatures is the
(1) Red Dwarfs
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. The time at point X is closest to
(3) 6 p.m.
The diagram below represents the route of a ship traveling from New York City to Miami, Florida. Each
night, a passenger on the ship observes Polaris. Which statement best describes the observed changes in the
altitude of Polaris made by the passenger during voyage?
1 Each night the altitude decreases in the northern sky.
Which observation is a direct result of the 23½° tilt of Earth’s axis as Earth orbits the Sun?
4 Winter occurs in the Southern Hemisphere at the same time that summer occurs in the Northern
Hemisphere.
An observer on Earth measured the apparent diameter of the Sun over a period of 2 years. Which graph best
represents the Sun’s apparent diameter during the 2 years?
Which statement best explains the differences between the July and January values shown on the graph?
3 The position of maximum insolation on Earth’s surface changes.
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?
4 December 21
The diagram below shows information needed to use Eratosthenes’ method to find the circumference of a
planet. At noon, a vertical stick at the planet’s equator casts no shadow. At a location farther north, another
vertical stick casts a shadow that makes an angle of 25° with the rays of the Sun. The distance between the
two sticks is 2,000 kilometers. What is the approximate circumference of this planet?
(2) 28,800 km
During how many days of a calendar year is the Sun directly overhead at noon in New York State?
(4) 0 days
Which diagram best represents the wavelength of most of the sunlight energy absorbed and the wavelength
of infrared energy reradiated by the roof of a building at 2 p.m. on a clear summer day?
The North Star (Polaris) can be used for navigation in Earth’s Northern Hemisphere because
3 the altitude of Polaris is equal to the observer’s latitude
Which statement correctly describes the motion on which an Earth time interval is based?
4 Earth’s day is based on Earth’s rotation.
Which observation is a direct result of changes in distance between Earth and the Sun?
2 The apparent diameter of the Sun shows predictable changes in size.
Which statement about Polaris is best illustrated by the diagrams shown below?
(4) Polaris’ altitude is equal to a location’s latitude.
The Milky Way Galaxy is best described as
(4) spiral
Compared to the temperature and luminosity of the star Polaris, the star Sirius is
(2) hotter and less luminous
The Big Bang Theory, describing the creation of the universe, is most directly supported by the
(1) redshift of light from distant galaxies
At which location could an observer have viewed this total solar eclipse if the skies were clear?
(3) C
Which statement best describes the visibility of this eclipse from locations in New York State?
(4) Neither a partial nor a total eclipse was visible.
Which diagram best represents the positions of Earth (E), the Sun, and the Moon (M) that created the solar
eclipse? (Diagrams are not drawn to scale.)
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which represents an asteroid’s
elliptical orbit around the Sun. The dashed line is the major axis of the ellipse.
The center of the X should be placed within the circle shown.
Note: Allow credit if a symbol other than X is used.
What is the approximate eccentricity of this ellipse?
(3) 0.68
In October, observers in New York State looking due south at the night sky would see a different group of
constellations than they had seen in March. What is the best explanation for this change in the night sky?
(4) Earth revolves around the Sun.
Which process transfers energy primarily by electromagnetic waves?
(1) radiation
Identify the nuclear reaction referred to in this passage that combines hydrogen gas to form helium and
produces most of the Sun’s energy.
fusion or nuclear fusion
On the diagram of the planets and the Sun’s surface below, draw a vertical line to represent the inferred
location of the Sun’s surface when it becomes a red giant star.
A vertical line should be drawn anywhere through the shaded area shown below. The line does not
have to be perfectly vertical.
Example response:
Explain why a red giant star, similar to Aldebaran, has a greater luminosity than the Sun.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Aldebaran is larger than the Sun.
— The Sun is smaller than Aldebaran.
Approximately how many million kilometers from the Sun is the Asteroid Belt?
Any value from 400 to 600 million km
State one probable reason why asteroid 1994 XL1 was so close to Earth before being spotted by astronomers.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Asteroid 1994 XL1 was very small.
— The asteroid was 100,000 times fainter than the naked eye could see.
— Asteroid 1994 XL1 was dark colored.
Some scientists believe an asteroid impact on Earth caused the extinction of the last of the dinosaurs. How
many million years ago did this asteroid impact occur?
65 million yr
Scientists can plan to photograph a solar eclipse because most astronomical events are
(1) cyclic and predictable
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
(2) movement around the Sun
Approximately how many degrees per day does Earth revolve in its orbit around the Sun?
(1) 1°
Compared with our Sun, the star Betelgeuse is
(4) larger, cooler, and more luminous
Astronomers viewing light from distant galaxies observe a shift of spectral lines toward the red end of the
visible spectrum. This shift provides evidence that
(4) the universe is expanding
Most of the solar radiation absorbed by Earth’s surface is later radiated back into space as which type of
electromagnetic radiation?
(3) infrared
From stage B to stage C, the young Sun was created
(1) when gravity caused the center of the cloud to contract
After the young Sun formed, the disk of gas and dust
(4) eventually formed into planets
Which diagram shows the position of Earth relative to the Sun’s rays on this day?
Approximately how many hours of daylight would occur at position A on this day?
(3) 12
On this day, the duration of daylight from the equator to the Arctic Circle
(1) decreases, only
The eccentricity of the asteroid’s orbit is 0.250. On the orbital diagram below, mark the position of the
second focus of the asteroid’s orbit by placing an X on the major axis at the proper location.
The center of the student’s X is within the bracket shown below
Example response:
Determine which was traveling faster, Halley’s Comet or the asteroid, between the years 1903 and 1908.
State one reason for your choice.
Halley’s Comet and an acceptable reason. Acceptable reasons include, but are not limited to:
— The comet traveled a greater distance during that time.
— Halley’s orbit is closer to the Sun.
Explain why Halley’s Comet is considered to be part of our solar system.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Halley’s Comet orbits the Sun.
On the graph below, draw a line to represent the general relationship between the altitude of the Sun at noon
and the number of hours of daylight throughout the year at Buffalo.
A line on the graph drawn by the student should show that, as the altitude of the noontime Sun
increases, the hours of daylight increase. Example response:
The sky model diagram below shows the apparent path of the Sun on March 21 for an observer in Buffalo,
New York. Draw a line to represent the apparent path of the Sun from sunrise to sunset at Buffalo on May
21. Be sure your path indicates the correct altitude of the noon Sun and begins and ends at the correct
positions on the horizon.
The Sun’s apparent path should be drawn so the altitude of the Sun at noon is within the circle shown
below and a path that starts north of east on the horizon and ends north of west on the horizon.
On the same sky model diagram above, place an asterisk (Q) at the apparent position of the North Star as
seen from Buffalo.
The center of the asterisk should be between 40° and 45°.
Example response for the previous two questions:
Which altitude of Polaris could be observed in New York State?
(3) 44°
Which statement provides the best evidence that Earth revolves around the Sun?
4 The seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter repeat in a pattern.
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
2 Sun
Differences in Earth’s orbital velocity around the Sun are caused primarily by changes in the
3 distance between Earth and the Sun
What is the most likely location of the house shown in the diagram?
4 North America
For the roof of this house, which color would absorb the most insolation and also reradiate the most energy?
4 black
Which factor is a cause of the difference in the noontime altitude of the Sun on June 21 and December 21?
1 the tilt of Earth’s axis
On a clear day, the house will receive the greatest intensity of solar electromagnetic radiation in the form of
3 visible light radiation
On which side of the house should a solar collector be installed to absorb the greatest amount of insolation?
2 south
A black hole is a celestial feature believed to have a mass millions of times the mass of our Sun and a
diameter less than the diameter of Earth. An object of such high mass and small volume would have
2 a very high density
When observed from a location in New York State for one night, the North Star (Polaris) appears to
4 remain stationary in the sky
Most of the energy radiated by Earth’s surface at night is in the form of
(1) infrared rays
Which material reflects the least sunlight?
3 ocean
On which two dates could all locations on Earth have equal hours of day and night?
4 March 21 and September 23
When viewed from Earth, the light from very distant galaxies shows a red shift. This is evidence that these
distant galaxies are
(3) moving away from Earth
Which type of electromagnetic energy has the longest wavelength?
(2) radio wave radiation
Which diagram shows the correct relationship between these four regions?
Which list correctly pairs the location of sunrise to the time of the year?
At which location could an observer not see Polaris in the night sky at any time during the year?
(2) B
Which location receives 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness on June 21?
(3) C
At which location on December 21 is the Sun directly overhead at solar noon?
(2) B
How soon did protons and neutrons form after the beginning of the universe?
(3) 10–6 second
What is the most appropriate title for this table?
(1) The Big Bang Theory
According to this table, the average temperature of the universe since stage 3 has
(1) decreased, only
Between which two stages did our solar system form?
(4) 7 and 8
What is the elevation of location A?
10 m
Calculate the gradient between points B and C and label your answer with the correct units.
• Allow credit for any value from 18.9 to 21.1.
• Allow credit for the correct units. Acceptable units include, but are not limited to:
— m/km
— meters/km
— m/kilometer
On the grid below, construct a topographic profile along line DE by plotting an X for the elevation of each
contour line that crosses line DE. Connect the Xs with a smooth, curved line to complete the profile.
• Allow credit if the centers of five or six Xs are located within the circles shown on the profile and are
correctly connected with a line that passes within the circles. The line must have the lowest elevation
between 10 and 20 meters.
• Allow credit if the centers of five or six Xs are located within the circles shown on the profile but the
line is not correctly drawn or is missing.
Explain how the map indicates that Copper Creek flows faster between points N and M than between points
L and K.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Contour lines between N and M are closer together.
— There is a steeper slope between N and M.
— Where contour lines are far apart, there is a gentle slope and the stream velocity is less.
How many times will the Sun’s perpendicular rays cross Earth’s Equator between March 1 of one year and
March 1 of the next year?
(2) 2
Which star’s surface temperature is closest to the temperature at the boundary between Earth’s mantle and
core?
(3) the Sun
Which conclusion can be made by comparing the standard spectrum to the spectrum produced from this
distant star?
(4) The star’s spectral lines have shifted toward the infrared end of the spectrum and the star is
moving away from Earth.
According to this diagram, what is the Sun’s altitude at solar noon?
(3) 48°
Where is this observer most likely located?
(3) Slide Mountain
On which date could this observation of the Sun’s apparent path have been made?
(1) March 21
On the diagram provided below, place an X on Earth’s orbit to indicate Earth’s position on May 21.
Allow credit for the correct placement of the X on the diagram. The center of the X must be between
the brackets indicated on Earth’s orbit, as shown in the diagram below.
Explain why New York State experiences summer when Earth is at its greatest distance from the Sun.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
 The North Pole is tilted toward the Sun in the summer.
 In summer, the Sun is higher in the sky due to the tilt of Earth’s axis.
 New York State receives higher angles of insolation in summer when Earth is farthest from the
Sun.
 New York State receives lower angles of insolation in winter when Earth is closest to the Sun.
 Greater duration of insolation
Which two stars have the most similar luminosity and temperature?
(3) Alpha Centauri and the Sun
Which letter indicates a location west of the post?
(2) B
On March 21, at which location in New York State would sunrise occur first?
(1) Riverhead
Earth is farthest from the Sun during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, and Earth is closest to the Sun
during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter. During which season in the Northern Hemisphere is Earth’s
orbital velocity greatest?
(1) winter
The time at point X is closest to
(4) 12 midnight
Which part of the Sun’s electromagnetic spectrum has the longest wavelength?
(1) radio wave radiation
How many hours was the lens kept open to create the star trails in this photograph?
(4) 4 hours
Which lettered location will experience the shortest period of daylight during one Earth rotation on this day?
(1) A
What is the altitude of the noontime Sun at the Equator on this date?
(3) 66 °
Which season will begin at 41° N latitude, three months after the date represented by this diagram?
(4) spring
Describe how the time of sunrise changed for the observer each day during the month of May.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
The Sun appeared to rise earlier each day during May.
Note: Do not allow credit for “The days get longer” because the response does not describe the time of
sunrise.
State the actual Earth motion that causes the Sun to appear to rise each day.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Earth’s rotation
spinning on its axis
Which diagram correctly shows the apparent motion of Polaris from sunset to midnight for an observer in
northern Canada?
Which conclusion is best supported by the diagram?
(3) Visible light makes up the greatest amount of electromagnetic energy reaching Earth’s surface.
The graph indicates that years having the greatest number of sunspots occur
(4) in a cyclic pattern, repeating approximately every 11 years
Which graph best represents the relationship between the number of sunspots and the amount of magnetic
activity in the Sun?
The apparent rising and setting of the Sun, as viewed from Earth, is caused by
(1) Earth’s rotation
In which direction on the horizon does the Sun appear to rise on July 4 in New York State?
(3) north of due east
Which graph best represents the change in gravitational attraction between the Sun and a comet as the
distance between them increases?
A major belt of asteroids is located between Mars and Jupiter. What is the approximate average distance
between the Sun and this major asteroid belt?
(3) 390 million kilometers
Which diagram represents the approximate altitude of Polaris as seen by an observer located in Syracuse,
New York?
What is the best inference that can be made concerning the movement of galaxies A, B, and C?
(4) Galaxies A, B, and C are all moving away from Earth.
At which New York State location could the observer be located?
(4) Slide Mountain
When the Sun is at position A, which latitude receives the most direct rays of the Sun?
(2) Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S)
When the Sun is at the March 21 position, New York State will usually have
(2) 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness
State the actual geometric shape of Earth’s orbit.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
ellipse
oval
elliptical with the Sun at one focus
Note: Do not accept circle, sphere, or egg shaped.
Identify the season in the Northern Hemisphere when Earth is at perihelion.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
early winter
winter
Note: Do not accept January or any other month.
Describe the change that takes place in the apparent size of the Sun, as viewed from Earth, as Earth moves
from perihelion to aphelion.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
As Earth moves from perihelion to aphelion, the apparent size decreases.
The Sun appears smaller.
State the relationship between Earth’s distance from the Sun and Earth’s orbital velocity.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
As Earth moves from perihelion to aphelion, the orbital velocity decreases.
As distance of Earth from the Sun increases, orbital velocity decreases.
an inverse relationship
A person in New York State worked outdoors in sunlight for several hours on a day in July. Which type of
clothing should the person have worn to absorb the least electromagnetic radiation?
(4) light colored with a smooth surface
Which Earth latitude receives the greatest intensity of insolation when Earth is at the position shown in the
diagram?
(1) 0°
Which star color indicates the hottest star surface temperature?
(1) blue
Which observer was located at the Equator?
(2) X
Between which positions would New York State be experiencing the summer season?
(1) A and B
Students most likely observed that the temperature of area A increased at a
(3) faster rate than the temperature of area B because area A received rays that were more
perpendicular to the surface
Which diagram best represents the positions of the planet in its orbit that would produce the gravitational
forces shown in the data table?
The observer had the longest shadow when the Sun was at position
(4) 4
During which day of the year is the Sun most likely to follow the apparent path shown?
(2) July 1
Which season begins in New York State when the noontime Sun is observed at position A?
winter
Position B represents the Sun’s position at solar noon on March 21.
On what other date of the year would the noontime Sun be observed at position B?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
autumnal equinox
first day of fall
What is the total change in altitude that occurs as the noontime Sun appears to move from position A to
position C?
47 degrees
Which form of electromagnetic radiation has a wavelength of 1.0 ×10–3 centimeter?
(2) infrared
On June 21, where will the Sun appear to rise for an observer located in New York State?
(3) north of due east
In each diagram below, the mass of the star is the same. In which diagram is the force of gravity greatest
between the star and the planet shown?
Which shadow was cast by the same telephone pole on June 21 at solar noon?
According to the diagram, the life-cycle path followed by a star is determined by the star’s initial
(1) mass and size
Stars like Earth’s Sun most likely formed directly from a
(1) nebula
According to the diagram, a star like Earth’s Sun will eventually
(3) change into a white dwarf
On the diagram provided above, neatly and accurately shade the area of Earth that is in darkness.
Allow credit for correctly shading the half of Earth that faces away from the Sun.
On the diagram provided above, draw the line of latitude that is receiving the Sun’s direct perpendicular rays
on this date.
Allow credit for drawing a line approximately parallel to the Equator starting from a point within 2
millimeters of the intersection of the labeled Sun’s ray and Earth’s surface.
The correct responses are shown below.
What month of the year is represented by the diagram?
June
Using the “Luminosity and Temperature of Stars” graph in the Earth Science Reference Tables, list the five
stars below in order of decreasing relative luminosity, with letter a being the brightest.
Allow credit for the correct response shown below.
Brightest:
(a) Betelgeuse
(b) Polaris
(c) Aldebaran
(d) Sirius
Least Bright: (e) the Sun
Circle Polaris on diagram 2 provided above.
Allow credit for correctly circling Polaris, as shown in the diagram below.
In which compass direction were the students facing?
North
Describe the apparent direction of movement of the constellations Hercules and Perseus during the two hours
between student observations.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Hercules:
down and to the left (west)
to the left
counterclockwise
and
Perseus:
up and to the right (east)
upward
counterclockwise
To an observer in Buffalo, New York, the North Star, Polaris, is always located above the northern
horizon at an altitude of approximately
(2) 43°
What is the basic difference between ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation?
(3) wavelength
A major piece of scientific evidence supporting this theory is the fact that wavelengths of light from galaxies
moving away from Earth in stage 3 are observed to be
(3) longer than normal (a red shift)
a State the month in which Earth is at the position shown in the diagram.
b State the latitude that receives the most intense radiation from the Sun when Earth is at this position in its
orbit.
a Allow credit for June.
b Allow credit for 23 ½° N or Tropic of Cancer.
Describe the length of daylight at point A compared to the length of daylight at point B on the day
represented by the diagram.
Accept student responses that indicate that A is longer than B, even if the specific length of the day, in
hours, is stated incorrectly. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
There are more daylight hours at A than at B.
A is longer.
The model of Earth provided below represents Earth in its orbit 6 months later. On the model shown below
• draw the position of Earth’s axis and label the axis
• label the North Pole
• draw the position of Earth’s Equator and label the Equator
Allow credit if the north end of the axis is tilted away from the Sun (approximately 23 ½°).
and
Allow credit if the North Pole is appropriately labeled, based on the student’s drawn axis.
and
Allow credit if the Equator is correctly drawn or is drawn perpendicular to the axis in the student’s
answer.
At which location will the highest altitude of the star Polaris be observed?
(3) Arctic Circle
Which star is cooler and many times brighter than Earth’s Sun?
(2) Betelgeuse
Energy is transferred from the Sun to Earth mainly by
(3) electromagnetic waves
Compared to dull and rough rock surfaces, shiny and smooth rock surfaces are most likely to cause sunlight
to be
(1) reflected
Which diagram best represents the angle of the Sun’s rays received at location C at noon on this day?
What is the latitude of location A?
(4) 90° N
On this day, which location has the greatest number of hours of daylight?
(1) E
Which graph best represents the force of gravity between Earth and the Sun during one revolution of Earth
around the Sun?
Which celestial feature is largest in actual size?
(4) the Milky Way
Which changes can be expected to occur at 45° N over the next 30 days?
(4) The duration of insolation will increase and the temperature will increase.
At which latitude can the noontime Sun be observed in the northern part of the sky?
(1) 0°
Which model best represents the apparent path of the Sun observed at various times during the year at the
Equator?
Which location on the graph best represents a star with average brightness and temperature?
(2) B
Which statement best explains why Orion can be observed from New York State on December 21 but not on
June 21?
(3) Earth revolves around the Sun.
A student read in a newspaper that the maximum length of the daylight period for the year in Syracuse, New
York, had just been reached. What was the date of this newspaper?
(2) June 22
In a Doppler red shift, the observed wavelengths of light from distant celestial objects appear closer to the
red end of the spectrum than light from similar nearby celestial objects. The explanation for the red shift is
that the universe is presently
(2) expanding, only
Which graph best represents a plot of this planet’s apparent path, as viewed by the observer over the 7-month
period?
The observer at location A casts a shadow at the time represented in the diagram.
a State the compass direction in which the observer at location A must look to view her shadow.
b Describe the change in the length of the shadow that will occur between the time shown and sunset.
a northeast or east northeast or north northeast
b increase or become longer
State the approximate time of day for the observer at location B when the Sun is at the position shown in the
diagram.
2:30 p.m.(±1 hour)
Explain why the intensity of sunlight at noon on March 21 is greater at location C than at the other locations.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The Sun is highest in the sky at noon at location C.
The observer is at the Equator.
The observer at location D is located at a higher latitude than the other three observers.
State one way that this conclusion can be determined from the diagram.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Polaris has an altitude of 90°.
The Sun’s apparent path is along the horizon.
The only direction shown on the diagram is south; she must be at the North Pole.
State the other day of the year when the Sun’s apparent path is exactly the same as that shown for these four
locations on March 21.
September 21, 22, 23, or autumnal equinox
The best explanation for this observation is that Polaris
(4) is located directly over Earth’s North Pole
On June 21, some Earth locations have 24 hours of daylight. These locations are all between the latitudes of
(4) 66 ½° N and 90° N
The Milky Way galaxy is best described as
(4) a spiral-shaped formation composed of billions of stars
In which list are the forms of electromagnetic energy arranged in order from longest to shortest wavelengths?
(2) radio waves, infrared rays, visible light, ultraviolet rays
The calculated eccentricity of this orbit is approximately
(2) 0.2
The gravitational attraction between the star and the planet will be greatest at position
(1) A
As the planet revolves in orbit from position A to position D, the orbital velocity will
(3) decrease, then increase
Describe the changes in luminosity of the Sun that will occur from its current Main Sequence stage to its
final White Dwarf stage.
luminosity increases, then decreases
Which star shown on the “Luminosity and Temperature of Stars” graph in the Earth Science Reference
Tables is currently at the Sun’s final predicted stage of development?
Procyon B
The redshift of light from distant galaxies provides evidence that the universe is
(2) expanding, only
What is the altitude of Polaris (the North Star) above the northern horizon for observer A?
(2) 10°
Which two observers would be experiencing the same apparent solar time?
(3) B and E
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
Where on Earth’s surface is the observer at location C located?
(3) at the North Pole
From sunrise to sunset at location B, the length of the observer’s shadow will
(4) decrease, then increase
The apparent change in the Sun’s position shown in the diagram is best explained by
(2) Earth rotating at a rate of 15° per hour
This room is located in a building in New York State. On which side of the building is the window located?
(2) south
On the grid provided below, graph the data shown in the table by following the steps below.
a Mark with an X, the position of each of the seven stars. Write the number of the plotted star beside each X.
The first star has been plotted for you.
b Show the apparent shape of Orion by connecting the Xs in the following order:
5–1–2–7–3–4–5–6–7
a Allow credit if all six student-plotted Xs are plotted and numbered correctly.
Note: Each X must be on the correct vertical line of celestial longitude and be within ±0.5 of the
correct celestial latitude. Allow credit even if the student uses a symbol other than X.
b Allow credit for connecting the Xs in the order specified. Allow this credit even if the Xs are
located incorrectly.
or
Allow credit if the student has drawn the apparent shape of Orion even if the Xs are not numbered.
The correctly plotted graph is shown below.
Star 1 plotted on the grid is the star Betelgeuse. Star 3 plotted on the grid is the star Rigel. How do the
temperature and luminosity of Betelgeuse compare to the temperature and luminosity of Rigel?
Both temperature and luminosity must be included to receive credit.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
Betelgeuse is cooler and less luminous than Rigel.
The seven stars of the constellation Orion that were plotted are located within our galaxy. Name the galaxy
in which the plotted stars of Orion are located.
Milky Way or Milky Way Galaxy
State one reason why an observer in New York State can never observe the constellation Orion at midnight
during July but can observe the constellation Orion at midnight during January.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Earth revolves in its orbit.
Orion is only visible during the daytime in July.
The Sun is between Earth and Orion in July.