Beach Channel High School
Dr. David Morris, Principal
Earth Science
The Physical Setting
Regents Questions
2005 - 2007
Name:
Teacher:
Period:
Physical Setting Earth Science January, 2005
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
5 The diagram below shows a standard spectrum
compared to a spectrum produced from a distant star.
Directions (1-35) : For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 Which planet's orbit around the Sun is most nearly
circular?
(1) Mercury
(3) Pluto
(2) Neptune
(4) Venus
2 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
(3) 3
(2) 2
(4) 4
3 Which star's surface temperature is closest to the
temperature at the boundary between Earth's mantle and
core?
(1) Sirius
(3) the Sun
(2) Rigel
(4) Betelgeuse
4 Which graph best represents the relationship between
soil particle size and the rate at which water infiltrates
permeable soil?
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.
6 Scientists are concerned about the decrease in ozone in
the upper atmosphere primarily because ozone protects
life on Earth by absorbing certain wavelengths of
(1) x-ray radiation
(2) ultraviolet radiation
(3) infrared radiation
(4) microwave radiation
7 It is inferred that during the early Archean Era the
atmosphere of Earth contained water vapor; carbon
dioxide, nitrogen, and other gases in small amounts.
These gases probably came from
(1) precipitation of groundwater
(2) volcanic eruptions
(3) evaporation of Paleozoic oceans
(4) convection currents in the mantle
8 Which ocean current flows northeast along the eastern
coast of North America?
(1) Gulf Stream
(3) California
(2) North Equatorial
(4) Labrador
9 Which type of land surface would probably reflect the
most incoming solar radiation?
(1) light colored and smooth
(2) light colored and rough
(3) dark colored and smooth
(4) dark colored and rough
Earth Science January 2005 Page 2
10 There is evidence that an asteroid or a comet crashed
into the Gulf of Mexico at the end of the Mesozoic Era.
Consequences of this impact event may explain the
(1) extinction of many kinds of marine animals,
including trilobites
(2) extinction of ammonoids and dinosaurs
(3) appearance of the earliest birds and mammals
(4) appearance of great coal-forming forests and
insects
11 What is the approximate location of the Canary Islands
hot spot?
(1) 32° 5 18° W
(3) 32° N 18° W
(2) 32° 5 18° E
(4) 32° N 18° E
15 Outwash plains are formed as a result of deposition by
(1) landslides
(2) ocean waves
(3) winds from hurricanes
(4) meltwater from glaciers
16 A stream with a velocity of 100 centimeters per
second flows into a lake. Which sediment-size particles
would the stream most likely deposit first as it enters
the lake?
(1) boulders
(3) pebbles
(2) cobbles
(4) sand
17 The cross section below shows a soil profile.
12 How long would it take for the first S-wave to arrive
at a seismic station 4,000 kilometers away from the
epicenter of an earthquake?
(1) 5 mm 40 sec
(3) 12 mm 40 sec
(2) 7 mm 0 sec
(4) 13 mm 20 sec
13 Which New York State river flows generally
southward?
(1) St. Lawrence River
(3) Genesee River
(2) Niagara River
(4) Hudson River
14 The map below shows the stream drainage patterns
for a region of Earth's surface. Points A B, C, and D are
locations in the region.
This soil was formed primarily by
(1) erosion by glaciers
(2) erosion by running water
(3) capillarity and human activity
(4) weathering and biological activity
18 Which type of rock most likely contains fossils?
(1) scoria
(3) schist
(2) gabbro
(4) shale
19 In which New York State landscape region is most of
the surface bedrock composed of metamorphic rock?
(1) Adirondacks
(2) Catskills
(3) Erie-Ontario Lowlands
(4) Newark Lowlands
The highest elevation most likely exists at point
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
20 A human fingernail has a hardness of approximately
2.5. Which two minerals are softer than a human
fingernail?
(1) calcite and halite
(3) graphite and talc
(2) sulfur and fluorite
(4) pyrite and magnetite
Earth Science January 2005 Page 3
21 The photograph below shows an escarpment (cliff)
located in the western United States. The directions for
north and south are indicated by arrows. A fault in the
sedimentary rocks is shown on the front of the
escarpment.
An arrangement of atoms such as the one shown in the
diagram determines a mineral's
(1) age of formation
(2) infiltration rate
(3) physical properties
(4) temperature of formation
25 The map below shows the path of a river. The arrow
shows the direction the river is flowing. Letters A and B
identify the banks of the river.
The photograph shows that the fault most likely formed
(1) after the rock layers were deposited, when the
north side moved downward
(2) after the rock layers were deposited, when the
north side moved upward
(3) before the rock layers were deposited, when the
south side moved downward
(4) before the rock layers were deposited, when the
south side moved upward
22 Which mountain range resulted from the collision of
North America and Africa, as parts of Pangea joined
together in the late Pennsylvanian Period?
(1) Appalachian Mountains
(2) Acadian Mountains
(3) Taconic Mountains
(4) Grenville Mountains
23 Which physical characteristic best describes the rock
phyllite?
(1) glassy texture with gas pockets
(2) clastic texture with angular fragments
(3) bioclastic texture with cemented shell fragments
(4) foliated texture with microscopic mica crystals
The water depth is greater near bank A than bank B
because the water velocity near bank A is
(1) faster, causing deposition to occur
(2) faster; causing erosion to occur
(3) slower; causing deposition to occur
(4) slower; causing erosion to occur
26 Which home-building material is made mostly from the
mineral gypsum?
(1) plastic pipes
(3) drywall panels
(2) window glass
(4) iron nails
27 The two most abundant elements by Mass in Earth's
crust are oxygen and
(1) potassium
(3) nitrogen
(2) hydrogen
(4) silicon
Base your answers to questions 28 through 30 on the
diagram below, which represents the planetary wind and
moisture belts in Earth's Northern Hemisphere.
24 The diagram below represents a part of the crystal
structure of the mineral kaolinite.
28 The climate at 90° north latitude is dry because the
air at that location is usually
(1) warm and rising
(3) cool and rising
(2) warm and sinking
(4) cool and sinking
Earth Science January 2005 Page 4
29 The paths of the surface planetary winds are curved
due to Earth's
(1) revolution
(3) circumference
(2) rotation
(4) size
30 The tropopause is approximately how far above sea
level?
(1) 12 mi
(3) 60 mi
(2) 12 km
(4) 60 km
31 The diagram below shows four magnified block-shaped
sandstone samples labeled A, B, C, and D. Each sandstone
sample contains quartz grains of different shapes and
sizes. The quartz grains are held together by hematite
cement.
33 The diagrams below show four major types of fault
motion occurring in Earth's crust. Which type of fault
motion best matches the general pattern of crustal
movement at California's San Andreas fault?
In which sample did the quartz grains undergo the most
abrasion during erosional transport?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
32 On the map below, line AB is drawn across several of
Earth's tectonic plates in the South Atlantic Ocean.
34 The cross section below shows the movement of
wind-driven sand particles that strike a partly exposed
basalt cobble located at the surface of a windy desert.
Which cross section best represents the plate boundaries
and mantle movement beneath line AB?
Earth Science January 2005 Page 5
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 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.
Which cross section best represents the appearance of
this cobble after many years of exposure to the
wind-driven sand?
35 Each dot on the graph below shows the result of
separate scientific studies of the relationship between the
rates of erosion in regions of different relief. Relief is
the local difference between the highest and the lowest
elevations.
36 According to this diagram, what is the Sun's altitude
at solar noon?
(1) 23.5°
(3) 48°
(2) 42°
(4) 90°
37 Where is this observer most likely located?
(1) Massena
(3) Slide Mountain
(2) Oswego
(4) Mt. Marcy
38 On which date could this observation of the Sun's
apparent path have been made?
(1) March 21
(3) October 21
(2) July 21
(4) December 21
Base your answers to questions 39 through 42 on the
weather map below. The map shows a low-pressure
system and some atmospheric conditions at weather
stations A, B, and C.
The results of these combined studies indicate that with
each 100-meter increase in relief, the rate of erosion
generally
(1) decreases at a rate of 10 cm/1,000 years
(2) decreases at a rate of 20 cm/1,000 years
(3) increases at a rate of 10 cm/1,000 years
(4) increases at a rate of 20 cm/1,000 years
Part B-1
Answer all questions in this part
Directions (36-50) : For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Earth Science January 2005 Page 6
39 Which type of weather is usually associated with a cP
air mass, as shown near weather station C?
(1) moist and cool
(3) dry and cool
(2) moist and warm
(4) dry and warm
Base your answers to questions 43 and 44 on the bedrock
cross section below. The cross section represents part of
Earth's crust where natural gas, oil, and water have
moved upward through a layer of folded sandstone and
filled the pore spaces at the top of the sandstone layer.
40 Which cross section best represents the air masses,
air movement, clouds, and precipitation occurring behind
and ahead of the warm front located between stations A
and B?
41 The arrows on which map best represent the direction
of surface winds associated with this low-pressure
system?
43 The final arrangement of the natural gas, oil, and
water within the sandstone was caused by differences in
their
(1) density
(3) relative age
(2) specific heat
(4) radioactive half-life
44 The natural gas, oil, and water are trapped within the
top of the sandstone and do not move upward through the
shale because, compared to the sandstone, the shale has
(1) lower permeability
(3) larger pore spaces
(2) less foliation
(4) larger particles
Base your answers to questions 45 through 47 on the map
below, which shows the drainage basin of the Mississippi
River system. Several rivers that flow into the
Mississippi River are labeled. The arrow at location X
shows where the Mississippi River enters the Gulf of
Mexico.
42 If this weather system follows a normal storm track,
the low-pressure center (L) will generally move toward
the
(1) northeast
(3) southeast
(2) northwest
(4) southwest
45 The
system
(1)
(2)
entire land area drained by the Mississippi River
is referred to as a
levee
(3) meander belt
watershed
(4) floodplain
Earth Science January 2005 Page 7
46 Sediments deposited at location X by the Mississippi
River most likely have which characteristics?
(1) angular fragments arranged as mixtures
(2) rock particles arranged in sorted beds
(3) rocks with parallel scratches and grooves
(4) high-density minerals with hexagonal crystals
47 The structure formed by the deposition of sediments
at location X is best described as a
(1) moraine
(3) delta
(2) tributary
(4) drumlin
Base your answers to questions 48 through 50 on the
reading passage and the drawing below and on your
knowledge of Earth science.
Fossil With Signs of Feathers Is Cited as
Bird-Dinosaur Line
Paleontologists have discovered in China a fossil
dinosaur with what are reported to be clear traces of
feathers from head to tail, the most persuasive evidence
so far; scientists say, that feathers predated the origin
of birds and that modern birds are descendants of
dinosaurs.
Entombed in fine-grained rock, the unusually
well-preserved skeleton resembles that of a duck with a
reptilian tail, altogether about three feet in length. Its
head and tail are edged with the imprint of downy fibers.
The rest of the body, except for bare lower legs, shows
distinct traces of tufts and filaments that appear to have
been primitive feathers. On the backs of its short
forelimbs are patterns of what look like modern bird
feathers.
Other dinosaur remains with what appear to be
featherlike traces have been unearthed in recent years,
but nothing as complete as this specimen, paleontologists
said. Etched in the rock like a filigree decoration
surrounding the skeleton are imprints of where the down
and feathers appear to have been.
The 130-million-year-old fossils were found a year
ago by farmers in Liaoning Province in northeastern
China. After an analysis by Chinese and American
researchers, the fossil animal was identified as a
dromaeosaur; a small fast-running dinosaur related to
velociraptor. The dinosaurs belonged to a group of
two-legged predators known as advanced theropods...
excerpted from "Fossil With Signs of
Feathers Is Cited as Bird-Dinosaur Link"
John Noble Wilford
NewYork Times, April 26, 2001
48 During which period of geologic time have
paleontologists inferred that the feathered dinosaur
mentioned in the passage existed?
(1) Cambrian
(3) Paleogene
(2) Cretaceous
(4) Permian
49 This feathered dinosaur is not considered an index
fossil because it
(1) existed too long ago
(2) was preserved in ash
(3) was a land-dwelling animal
(4) was found in only one area
50 The reference to the bird-dinosaur link is most likely
referring to the concept of
(1) plate tectonics
(3) dynamic equilibrium
(2) evolution
(4) recycling
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–62): Record your answers in the spaces
provided in your answer booklet. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 and 52 on the diagram
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.
51 On the above diagram, place an X on Earth’s orbit to
indicate Earth’s position on May 21. [1]
52 Explain why New York State experiences summer
when Earth is at its greatest distance from the Sun. [1]
The drawing below shows an
artist's view of the
dinosaur; based on the
fossilized remains.
Earth Science January 2005 Page 8
Base your answers to questions 53 through 55 on the
field map below. The map shows elevations, measured in
feet, of a number of points in a certain geographic region.
Contour lines have been drawn for the 100-foot and
120-foot elevations. Points A and B represent two spot
elevations on the map.
53 On the map provided in your answer booklet, draw the
60-foot contour line. Make sure that the contour line
extends to the edges of the map. [1]
56 On the weather map station model below, using the
proper format, record the six weather conditions shown
below. [2]
Wind: from the northwest
Wind speed: 10 knots
Barometric pressure: 1022.0 mb
Cloud cover: 50%
Visibility: 5 mi
Precipitation (in the past 6 hours): .45 in
54 Toward which general compass direction does Elma
Creek flow? [1]
Ans.
55 Calculate the gradient between points A and B. Label
the answer with the correct units. [2]
Ans. Gradient =
Base your answers to questions 57 and 58 on the map and
table below. The map shows the name and location of the
volcanic peaks in the Cascade Mountain Range of the
northwestern United States west of the Yellowstone Hot
Spot. The table shows the major eruptions of each peak
over the past 4,000 years.
Earth Science January 2005 Page 9
57 During which geologic epoch did the volcanic activity
shown on the table occur? [1]
Ans.
62 The diagram below shows warm, moist air moving off
the ocean and over a mountain, causing precipitation
between points 1 and 2.
Epoch
58 On the cross section below, place an arrow in the
continental crust and an arrow in the oceanic crust to
show the relative directions of plate movement. [1]
Describe two changes that occur to the warm, moist air
between points 1 and 2 that would cause cloud formation.
[2]
1.
59 Which layer of Earth is composed of both the crust and
the rigid mantle? [1]
2.
Ans.
Base your answers to questions 60 and 61 on the diagram
below, which represents a model of the radio-active
decay of a particular element. The diagram shows the
)into the stable decay
decay of a radioactive element (
element (
)after one half-life period.
60 On the diagram below, shade in the amount of stable
decay element present after the second half-life period.
[1]
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (63–80): Record your answers in the spaces
provided in your answer booklet. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 63 through 65 on the
reading passage below and on your knowledge of Earth
science.
61 If the radioactive element in this model is carbon-14,
how much time will have passed after one half-life? [1]
Ans.
years
The Blue Moon
A “Blue Moon” is the name given to the second full
moon in a calendar month. Because there are roughly 29.5
days between full moons, it is unusual for two full moons
to “fit” into a 30 or 31 day month (and impossible to fit
into a 28 or 29 day month, so February can never have a
Blue Moon). The saying “Once in a Blue Moon” means a
rare occurrence, and predates the current astronomical
use of the term, which is quite recent. In fact, Blue
Moons are not all that rare, on average there will be one
Blue Moon every 2.5 years. After 1999, the next Blue
Moons will be in November 2001; July 2004; and June
2007. The last one before 1999 was in July 1996.
The term Blue Moon is believed to have originated in
1883 after the eruption of Krakatoa. The volcano put so
much dust in the atmosphere that the Moon actually
looked blue in color. This was so unusual that the term
“once in a Blue Moon” was coined.
“The Blue Moon” David R. Williams
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/planetary/lunar/blue_moon.html
Earth Science January 2005 Page 10
63 Explain why a Blue Moon never occurs during the
month of February. [1]
64 What is the greatest number of full-Moon phases,
visible from Earth, that are possible in a span of 1 year?
[1]
Ans.
65 In the space below, draw the relative positions of
Earth, the Moon, and the Sun, as viewed from space, so
that a full-Moon phase would be visible to an observer on
Earth. Label Earth, the Moon, and the Sun in your
drawing. [1]
67 On the grid below, plot the depths of the five
earthquakes from location A toward location B. [1]
66 The Moon has many more impact craters visible on its
surface than Earth has on its surface. State two reasons
that Earth has so few visible impact craters. [2]
1.
2.
Base your answers to questions 67 and 68 on the map and
data table shown below. The map shows some tectonic
plates and the boundaries between them. Letters A and B
are locations on Earth’s surface. The data table shows the
depth below Earth’s surface of five earthquakes
measured from location A toward location B.
68 Identify the type of plate boundary or geologic feature
found at location B. [1]
Ans.
Earth Science January 2005 Page 11
Base your answers to questions 69 through 71 on the
cross section below, which shows several rock
formations found in New York State. The rock layers have
not been overturned.
69 How does this cross section indicate that the Stockton
sandstone is the oldest rock layer? [1]
70 State one piece of evidence that supports the fact that
the Palisade Sill is younger than the Brunswick sandstone.
[1]
71 State one tectonic event affecting North America that
occurred at the same time as the Palisade Sill intrusion.
[1]
72 For Riverhead, Albany, and Massena, state the
relationship between latitude and the length of the
growing season shown by the graph. [1]
73 The data for Oswego, New York, have been plotted
separately on the graph. Explain why the location of
Oswego causes it to have a growing season longer than
other cities at the same latitude. [1]
(Empty space)
Base your answers to questions 72 through 74 on the map
and graph on top of the next column, and your knowledge
of Earth science. The map shows the length of the growing
season in New York State, expressed in days. The
growing season is the average number of days between
the last frost in spring and the first frost in fall. The
graph line shows the relationship between the latitudes of
Riverhead, New York; Albany, New York; and Massena,
New York; and the length of the growing season at these
three locations.
74 Compare the length of the growing season in a lowland
region with the length of the growing season in a mountain
region at approximately the same latitude. [1]
Earth Science January 2005 Page 12
Base your answers to questions 75 through 77 on the
cross section below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The cross section shows a portion of Earth’s
crust. The age, in millions of years, of each boundary
between the different sedimentary rock layers is shown.
The age of boundary X between the sedimentary rock and
the metamorphic rock is not shown. Assume no
overturning has occurred.
79 In the table below, state the names of minerals A, B,
and C. [2]
80 State two processes responsible for the formation of
an igneous rock. [1]
and
75 Identify the geologic feature represented by boundary
X. [1]
Ans.
76 Describe how the rock type below boundary X was
formed. [1]
77 Identify by name one index fossil that existed when
the limestone rock shown in the cross section was being
formed. [1]
Ans.
Base your answers to questions 78 through 80 on the
diagram and table below. The diagram represents a felsic
igneous rock. Letters A, B, and C represent three
different minerals in the rock sample. The table describes
the physical properties of minerals A, B, and C found in
the igneous rock sample.
78 State the texture of this igneous rock. [1]
Ans.
Earth Science January 2005 Page 13
Earth Science June 2005
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
6 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 .
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 Which list of three planets and Earth’s Moon is arranged
in order of increasing equatorial diameter?
(1) Earth’s Moon, Pluto, Mars, Mercury
(2) Pluto, Earth’s Moon, Mercury, Mars
(3) Mercury, Mars, Earth’s Moon, Pluto
(4) Mars, Mercury, Pluto, Earth’s Moon
2 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
3 Which star has a higher luminosity and a lower
temperature than the Sun?
(3) Alpha Centauri
(1) Rigel
(2) Barnard’s Star
(4) Aldebaran
4 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
5 On which day of the year would the intensity of
insolation at Kingston, New York, most likely be
greatest?
(1) March 21
(3) September 23
(2) June 21
(4) December 21
What is the approximate eccentricity of this elliptical
orbit?
(1) 0.3
(3) 0.7
(2) 0.5
(4) 1.4
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
(2) receive less total yearly hours of daylight
(3) absorb the greatest amount of insolation
(4) are usually farthest from the Sun
8 Compared to an inland location, a location on an ocean
shore at the same elevation and latitude is likely to have
(1) cooler winters and cooler summers
(2) cooler winters and warmer summers
(3) warmer winters and cooler summers
(4) warmer winters and warmer summers
9 The diagram below represents a Foucault pendulum
swinging freely for 8 hours.
The Foucault pendulum appears to gradually change its
direction of swing due to Earth’s
(1) orbit around the Sun
(3) tilted axis
(2) curved surface
(4) spin on its axis
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 14
10 The diagram below shows the noontime shadows cast
by a student and a tree.
14 Which map view best represents the pattern of isobar
values, in millibars, and the pattern of wind flow, shown
by arrows, at Earth’s surface surrounding a Northern
Hemisphere low-pressure center?
If the time is solar noon and the student is located in New
York State, in what direction is the student facing?
(1) north
(3) east
(2) south
(4) west
11 The diagram below represents the Moon in its orbit,
as viewed from above Earth’s North Pole. Position 1
represents a specific location of the Moon in its orbit.
15 An observer measured the air temperature and the
dewpoint and found the difference between them to be
12°C. One hour later, the difference between the air
temperature and the dewpoint was found to be 4°C. Which
statement best describes the changes that were
occurring?
(1) The relative humidity was decreasing and the
chance of precipitation was decreasing.
(2) The relative humidity was decreasing and the
chance of precipitation was increasing.
(3) The relative humidity was increasing and the
chance of precipitation was decreasing.
(4) The relative humidity was increasing and the
chance of precipitation was increasing.
Which phase of the Moon will be seen from Earth when the
Moon is at position 1?
12 During nighttime cooling, most of the energy radiated
by Earth’s oceans into space is
(1) ultraviolet rays
(3) visible light rays
(2) gamma rays
(4) infrared rays
13 Landscapes with horizontal
slopes, and high elevations are
(1) plateau regions
(2) plain regions
16 Which two ocean currents are both warm currents
that primarily flow away from the equator?
(1) Guinea Current and Labrador Current
(2) Brazil Current and Agulhas Current
(3) Alaska Current and Falkland Current
(4) Canaries Current and Gulf Stream Current
17 Which surface soil conditions allow the most
infiltration of rainwater?
(1) steep slope and permeable soil
(2) steep slope and impermeable soil
(3) gentle slope and permeable soil
(4) gentle slope and impermeable soil
bedrock structure, steep
classified as
(3) lowland regions
(4) mountain regions
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 15
18 The map below shows a river emptying into an ocean,
producing a delta.
21 The photograph below shows the intergrown crystals
of a pegmatite rock.
Which graph best represents the relationship between the
distance from the river delta into the ocean and the
average size of sediments deposited on the ocean floor?
Which characteristic provides the best evidence that this
pegmatite solidified deep underground?
(1) low density
(3) felsic composition
(2) light color
(4) very coarse texture
22 Which igneous rock, when weathered, could produce
sediment composed of the minerals potassium feldspar,
quartz, and amphibole?
(1) gabbro
(3) andesite
(2) granite
(4) basalt
Base your answers to questions 23 and 24 on the
photograph below. The photograph shows several broken
samples of the same colorless mineral.
19 Which process could lead directly to the formation of
pumice rock?
(1) precipitation of minerals from evaporating
seawater
(2) metamorphism of unmelted rock material
(3) deposition of quartz sand
(4) explosive eruption of lava from a volcano
20 The rock shown below has a foliated texture and
contains the minerals amphibole, quartz, and feldspar
arranged in coarse-grained bands.
Which rock is shown?
(1) slate
(2) dunite
23 Which physical property of this mineral is most easily
seen in the photograph?
(1) fracture
(3) streak
(2) hardness
(4) cleavage
24 Which mineral is most likely shown in the photograph?
(1) quartz
(3) galena
(2) calcite
(4) halite
(3) gneiss
(4) quartzite
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 16
25 The large coal fields found in Pennsylvania provide
evidence that the climate of the north-eastern United
States was much warmer during the Carboniferous
Period. This change in climate over time is best explained
by the
(1) movements of tectonic plates
(2) effects of seasons
(3) changes in the environment caused by humans
(4) evolution of life
31 Which graph best shows the radioactive decay of
carbon-14?
26 What is the inferred temperature at the boundary
between Earth’s stiffer mantle and outer core?
(1) 2,500°C
(3) 5,000°C
(2) 4,500°C
(4) 6,200°C
27 Which color of the visible spectrum has the shortest
wavelength?
(1) violet
(3) yellow
(2) blue
(4) red
28 The diagram below shows the interaction of two
tectonic plates.
32 Approximately what percentage of the estimated age
of Earth does the Cenozoic Era represent?
(1) 1.4%
(3) 11.9%
(2) 5.0%
(4) 65.0%
33 The geologic cross section below shows the geologic
age of two rock layers separated by an unconformity.
The type of plate boundary represented in the diagram
most likely exists between the
(1) Antarctic Plate and the African Plate
(2) Antarctic Plate and the Indian-Australian Plate
(3) South American Plate and the Nazca Plate
(4) South American Plate and the African Plate
29 When 1 gram of liquid water at 0° Celsius freezes to
form ice, how many total calories of heat are lost by the
water?
(1) 1
(3) 80
(2) 0.5
(4) 540
The unconformity at the bottom of the Silurian rock layer
indicates a gap in the geologic time record. What is the
minimum time, in millions of years, shown by the gap?
(1) 13
(3) 101
(2) 47
(4) 126
30 The shore of which New York State body of water has
large amounts of metamorphic bedrock exposed at the
surface?
(1) western shore of Lake Champlain
(2) eastern shore of Lake Erie
(3) southern shore of Long Island Sound
(4) southern shore of Lake Ontario
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 17
34 The diagram below represents a map view of a stream
drainage pattern.
Which underlying bedrock structure most likely produced
this stream drainage pattern?
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 on the map
below, which shows sea-level air pressure, in millibars,
for a portion of the eastern coast of North America.
Points A, B, C, and D are sea-level locations on Earth’s
surface.
35 Compared to a maritime tropical air mass, a maritime
polar air mass has a
(1) higher temperature and more water vapor
(2) higher temperature and less water vapor
(3) lower temperature and more water vapor
(4) lower temperature and less water vapor
36 Which weather instrument was used to measure the
air pressures?
(1) thermometer
(3) sling psychrometer
(2) wind vane
(4) barometer
37 Which location most likely recorded the highest wind
speed?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
38 The air pressure recorded at point D was most likely
(1) 1014 mb
(3) 1010 mb
(2) 1012 mb
(4) 1006 mb
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 18
Base your answers to questions 39 through 41 on the
newspaper article shown below and on your knowledge of
Earth science.
Fossilized Jellyfish Found in Wisconsin
Fossil hunters have unearthed the largest collection
of fossilized jellyfish ever discovered, including the
largest fossilized jellyfish ever found.
The remains of soft-bodied animals such as jellyfish
are relatively rare because they don’t have bones, fossil
dealer Dan Damrow, James W. Hagadorn of the California
Institute of Technology and Robert H. Dott Jr. of the
University of Wisconsin at Madison noted in describing
the find in the journal Geology.
About a half-billion years ago, during the Cambrian
period, the quarry in Mosinee, Wis., where the deposits
were found was a small lagoon. The jellyfish apparently
died when they were washed up by a freak tide or storm,
the researchers said. The jellyfish remains were
probably preserved because of a lack of erosion from sea
water and wind, and a lack of scavengers, the
researchers concluded.
“It is very rare to discover a deposit which contains
an entire stranding event of jellyfish,” Hagadorn said.
“These jellyfish are not just large for the Cambrian, but
are the largest jellyfish in the entire fossil record.”
Washington Post, January 2002
39 These fossilized jellyfish were most likely discovered
in which type of rock?
(1) sandstone
(3) pumice
(2) granite
(4) slate
Base your answers to questions 42 through 44 on the
topographic map below. Points A, B, C, D, and X
represent locations on the map. Elevations are measured
in feet.
42 What is the highest possible elevation of point X on
Rock Mountain?
(1) 1,599 ft
(3) 1,601 ft
(2) 1,600 ft
(4) 1,699 ft
43 What is the average gradient of the slope along
straight line CD?
(1) 100 ft/mi
(3) 500 ft/mi
(2) 250 ft/mi
(4) 1,000 ft/mi
44 Which cross section best represents the profile along
straight line AB?
40 Which two marine organisms most likely lived at the
same time as these jellyfish?
(1) crinoids and dinosaurs
(2) ammonoids and placoderm fish
(3) brachiopods and gastropods
(4) amphibians and eurypterids
41 Which evidence would lead scientists to suspect that a
tide or storm had washed up these jellyfish on a beach?
(1) Primitive life existed on land 500 million years
ago.
(2) The rock containing the jellyfish fossils has
distorted crystal structure.
(3) Treeroot fossils appear to have been pitted and
folded.
(4) Large ripple marks were found in the
fossil-containing rock layers.
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 19
Base your answers to questions 45 through 47 on the map
below, which shows watershed regions of New York
State.
48 Which location in Earth’s orbit represents the first
day of fall (autumn) for an observer in New York State?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
49 Earth’s rate of revolution around the Sun is
approximately
(1) 1° per day
(3) 15° per hour
(2) 360° per day
(4) 23.5° per hour
45 On which type of landscape region are both the
Susquehanna-Chesapeake and the Delaware watersheds
located?
(1) plain
(3) mountain
(2) plateau
(4) lowland
46 In which watershed is the Genesee River located?
(1) Ontario-St. Lawrence
(2) Susquehanna-Chesapeake
(3) Mohawk-Hudson
(4) Delaware
50 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.
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–65): Record your answers in the spaces
below. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 through 53 on the
cross section below, which shows a typical cold front
moving over New York State in early summer.
47 Most of the surface bedrock of the Ontario-St.
Lawrence watershed was formed during which geologic
time periods?
(1) Precambrian and Cambrian
(2) Ordovician, Silurian, and Devonian
(3) Mississippian, Pennsylvanian, and Permian
(4) Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous
Base your answers to questions 48 through 50 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.
51 Explain why the warm, moist air is rising at the
frontal boundary. [1]
52 State one process that causes clouds to form in this
rising air. [1]
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 20
53 Central Canada was the geographic source region for
the cP air mass shown in the cross section. Identify the
most likely geographic source region for the mT air mass
shown in the cross section. [1]
56 Explain why this earthquake was most likely felt with
greater intensity by people in Peru, New York, than by
people in Lake Placid, New York. [1]
Base your answers to questions 54 through 57 on the map
below and on your knowledge of Earth science. The map
, of an earthquake
shows the location of the epicenter,
that occurred on April 20, 2002, about 29 kilometers
southwest of Plattsburgh, New York.
57 A seismic station located 1,800 kilometers from the
epicenter recorded the P-wave and S-wave arrival times
for this earthquake. What was the difference in the
arrival time of the first P-wave and the first S-wave?
[1]
min
sec
Base your answers to questions 58 through 60 on the
cross section of the bedrock outcrop shown below and on
your knowledge of Earth science. Index fossils found in
some of the rock units are shown. The rock units are
labeled I through IX.
54 State the latitude and longitude of this earthquake
epicenter. Express your answers to the nearest tenth of a
degree and include the compass directions. [1]
Latitude:
Longitude:
55 What is the minimum number of seismographic
stations needed to locate the epicenter of an earthquake?
[1]
58 In the
units VII,
indicating
youngest
space below, number the relative age of rock
VIII, and IX from 1 to 3, with number 1
the oldest rock and number 3 indicating the
rock. [1]
Rock unit VII:
Rock unit VIII:
Rock unit IX:
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 21
59 The fossil shown in rock unit VIII is a member of an
extinct group of fossils. State two other index fossils
that are also members of the same group of extinct
fossils. [1]
Base your answers to questions 64 and 65 on the station
model below, which shows the weather conditions at
Rochester, New York, at 4 p.m. on a particular day in
June.
and
60 Based on the fossils shown in the limestone and shale
layers, state the type of environment in which these
sedimentary rocks were deposited. [1]
Base your answers to questions 61 through 63 on the
block diagrams below, which show three types of
streams with equal volumes.
64 What was the actual barometric pressure, according
to the station model, to the nearest tenth of a millibar?
[1]
mb
65 The winds shown by this station model were blowing
from which compass direction and at what wind speed?
[1]
61 Explain how the differences between the type 1 and
type 3 stream channels indicate that the average
velocities of the streams are different. [1]
From the
at
knots
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (66–83): Record your answers in the spaces
below. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
62 Explain why the outside of the curve of a meandering
channel experiences more erosion than the inside of the
curve. [1]
Base your answers to questions 66 and 67 on the data
table below, which lists the apparent diameter of the Sun,
measured in minutes and seconds of a degree, as it
appears to an observer in New York State. (Apparent
diameter is how large an object appears to an observer.)
Apparent Diameter of the Sun During the Year
63 Explain how the cobbles and pebbles that were
transported by these streams became smooth and rounded
in shape. [1]
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 22
66 On the grid below, graph the data shown on the table
by marking with a dot the apparent diameter of the Sun
for each date listed and connecting the dots with a
smooth, curved line. [2]
68 State one greenhouse gas that is an excellent absorber
of infrared radiation and may be responsible for global
warming. [1]
69 Describe the arrangement of sediment deposited
directly from glaciers. [1]
70 Some glaciers currently exist near Earth’s equator
due to the cold, snowy climate of certain locations. Which
type of landform exists where these glaciers occur? [1]
71 Describe one action humans could take to reduce the
global warming that is melting the Quelccaya ice cap. [1]
67 Explain why the apparent diameter of the Sun changes
throughout the year as Earth revolves around the Sun. [1]
Base your answers to questions 72 through 75 on the map
and cross section of the Finger Lakes Region shown below
and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Base your answers to questions 68 through 71 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Watching the Glaciers Go
Mountain glaciers and ice caps in tropical areas of the
world are melting fast and may vanish altogether by the
year 2020. That was the chilling news last year from
Lonnie Thompson, a geologist at Ohio State University’s
Byrd Polar Research Center who has been studying icy
areas near the equator in South America, Africa, and the
Himalayas for two decades.
It doesn’t take a glacier scientist to see the changes.
In 1977, when Thompson visited the Quelccaya ice cap in
Peru, it was impossible not to notice a schoolbus-size
boulder stuck in its grip. When Thompson returned in
2000, the rock was still there but the ice wasn’t — it had
retreated far into the distance.
Most scientists believe the glaciers are melting
because of global warming — the gradual temperature
increase that has been observed with increasing urgency
during the past decade. Last year a panel of the nation’s
top scientists, the National Research Council, set aside
any lingering skepticism about the phenomenon,
concluding definitively that average global surface
temperatures are rising and will continue to do so.
“Watching the Glaciers Go,”
Popular Science, vol. #7, January 2002
72 According to the cross section, how thick from top to
bottom is the sediment fill in Seneca Lake? [1]
ft
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 23
73 State one possible explanation for the north-south
orientation of the Finger Lakes. [1]
74 During some winters, a few of the Finger Lakes
remain unfrozen even though the land around the lakes is
frozen. Explain how the specific heat of water can cause
these lakes to remain unfrozen. [1]
79 The sailor observed a 1-hour difference between solar
noon on the island and solar noon at his last measured
longitude onboard his ship. How many degrees of longitude
is the island from the sailor’s last measured longitude
onboard his ship? [1]
Base your answers to questions 80 through 83 on the
world map shown below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. Letters A through H represent locations on
Earth’s surface.
75 Identify two processes that normally occur to form
the type of surface bedrock found in the Finger Lakes
Region. [1]
and
Base your answers to questions 76 through 79 on the
diagram below, which shows observations made by a
sailor who left his ship and landed on a small deserted
island on June 21. The diagram represents the apparent
path of the Sun and the position of Polaris, as observed
by the sailor on this island.
80 Explain why most earthquakes that occur in the crust
beneath location B are shallower than most earthquakes
that occur in the crust beneath location C. [1]
81 Explain why location A has a greater probability of
experiencing a major earthquake than location D. [1]
76 On the diagram above, draw an arrow on the June 21
path of the Sun to show the Sun’s direction of apparent
movement from sunrise to sunset. [1]
77 The sailor was still on the island on September 23. On
the diagram below, draw the Sun’s apparent path for
September 23, as it would have appeared to the sailor. Be
sure your September 23 path indicates the correct
altitude of the noon Sun and begins and ends at the correct
points on the horizon. [2]
78 Based on the sailor’s observations, what is the
latitude of this island? Include the units and the compass
direction in your answer. [1]
82 Explain why a volcanic eruption is more likely to
occur at location E than at location F. [1]
83 Explain why the geologic age of the oceanic bedrock
increases from location G to location H. [1]
Latitude:
Earth Science June 2005 Page: 24
Earth Science August 2005
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 Compared to Earth’s solar system, the universe is
inferred to be
(1) younger and larger
(3) older and larger
(2) younger and smaller
(4) older and smaller
2 Terrestrial planets move more rapidly in their orbits
than the Jovian planets because terrestrial planets are
(1) rotating on a tilted axis
(2) more dense
(3) more massive
(4) closer to the Sun
(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.
7 The diagram below represents the shape of the Milky
Way Galaxy.
3 Which event is a direct result of Earth’s revolution?
(1) the apparent deflection of winds
(2) the changing of the Moon phases
(3) the seasonal changes in constellations viewed in
the night sky
(4) the daily rising and setting of the Sun
4 The cyclic rise and fall of ocean tides on Earth is
primarily caused by Earth’s rotation and the
(1) temperature differences in ocean currents
(2) revolution of Earth around the Sun
(3) direction of Earth’s planetary winds
(4) gravitational attraction of the Moon and the Sun
5 The apparent change in direction of a swinging Foucault
pendulum is the result of the
(1) rotation of Earth
(3) tilt of Earth’s axis
(2) revolution of Earth
(4) shape of Earth’s orbit
6 Which statement about Polaris is best illustrated by the
diagrams shown below?
The Milky Way Galaxy is best described as
(1) elliptical
(3) circular
(2) irregular
(4) spiral
8 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
9 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
10 Which process requires water to gain 540 calories of
energy per gram?
(1) vaporization
(3) melting
(2) condensation
(4) freezing
11 Which geographic area is a common source region for
cP air masses that move into New York State?
(1) southwestern United States
(2) central Canada
(3) the north Pacific Ocean
(4) the Gulf of Mexico
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 25
12 A parcel of air has a dry-bulb temperature of 24°C
and a relative humidity of 55%. What is the dewpoint of
this parcel of air?
(1) 6°C
(3) 24°C
(2) 14°C
(4) 29°C
13 Which statement can best be supported by the fossil
record?
(1) Humans have lived on Earth throughout geologic
history.
(2) The organisms on Earth have not changed.
(3) Most life-forms that existed on Earth have
become extinct.
(4) Dinosaurs existed on Earth for more than 544
million years.
15 If the time in Buffalo, New York, is 5 a.m., what time
would it be in San Francisco, California?
(1) 8 a.m.
(3) 3 a.m.
(2) 2 a.m.
(4) 4 a.m.
16 The basis for the time difference between adjoining
time zones is Earth’s
(1) 1° per hour rate of revolution
(2) 1° per hour rate of rotation
(3) 15° per hour rate of revolution
(4) 15° per hour rate of rotation
17 The table below shows some observed physical
properties of a mineral.
14 The diagram below shows a geologic cross section.
Letters A through D represent different rock units.
Based on these observations, the elements that make up
this mineral’s composition are
(1) sulfur and lead
(2) sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen
(3) oxygen, silicon, hydrogen, and magnesium
(4) oxygen, silicon, aluminum, and iron
18 The columns A, B, C, and D shown below contain equal
volumes of sediment.
Which sequence correctly shows the age of the lettered
rock units, from oldest to youngest?
(1) A —> B —> C —> D
(3) D —> B —> A —> C
(2) C —> D —> A —> B
(4) D —> C —> B —> A
Base your answers to questions 15 and 16 on the United
States time zone map shown below. The dashed lines
represent meridians (lines of longitude).
When an equal volume of water
the greatest rate of infiltration
column?
(1) A
(2) B
is added to each column,
will occur in which
(3) C
(4) D
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 26
19 The three cross sections of sedimentary bedrock
shown below represent widely separated surface
exposures of layers that contain fossils. Letters A, B, C,
and D represent four different marine fossils found in
these rock layers.
22 At which two locations is the rate of erosion greater
than the rate of deposition?
(1) A and B
(3) C and D
(2) B and C
(4) D and A
23 What are the largest particles that this stream can
transport when its velocity is 200 centimeters per
second?
(1) silt
(3) pebbles
(2) sand
(4) cobbles
Which letter best represents an index fossil?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
20 The diagram below represents a geologic cross section
of a portion of Earth’s crust.
Folding and erosion occurred after the formation of the
(1) Gayle shale
(2) Freeport sandstone
(3) Erie coal, but before formation of Freeport
sandstone
(4) Dunbar limestone, but before formation of Erie
coal
24 A decrease in the velocity of this stream will most
likely cause an increase in
(1) the amount of sediment carried by the stream
(2) the size of the particles carried by the stream
(3) deposition within the stream channel
(4) abrasion of the stream channel
25 Beneath which surface location is Earth’s crust the
thinnest?
(1) East Pacific Ridge
(2) the center of South America
(3) Old Forge, New York
(4) San Andreas Fault
26 On which weather map do the front symbols best
represent the direction of movement of the cold front and
warm front associated with the low-pressure system
shown on the map?
21 The surface winds in a typical Northern Hemisphere
high-pressure system are generally moving
(1) counterclockwise away from the high-pressure
center
(2) counterclockwise toward the high-pressure
center
(3) clockwise away from the high-pressure center
(4) clockwise toward the high-pressure center
Base your answers to questions 22 through 24 on the
diagram below, which shows a meandering stream.
Letters A, B, C, and D indicate locations on the
streambed.
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 27
27 The graph below shows the different velocities of
P-waves and S-waves through Earth’s interior.
Which diagram best shows the magnetic pattern and
relative age of the igneous bedrock on the west side of
the ridge?
Which cross section best shows the inferred thickness of
Earth’s interior layers that cause these different
velocities?
29 Which conditions normally can be found in Earth’s
asthenosphere, producing a partial melting of ultramafic
rock?
(1) temperature = 1,000°C; pressure = 10 million
atmospheres
(2) temperature = 2,000°C; pressure = 0.1 million
atmospheres
(3) temperature = 3,500°C; pressure = 0.5 million
atmospheres
(4) temperature = 6,000°C; pressure = 4 million
atmospheres
28 The diagram below represents the pattern of normal
and reversed magnetic polarity and the relative age of
the igneous bedrock composing the ocean floor on the east
side of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The magnetic polarity of
the bedrock on the west side of the ridge has been
deliberately left blank.
30 Which color of the visible light spectrum could have a
wavelength of 5.5 x 10–5 centimeter?
(1) green
(3) yellow
(2) orange
(4) red
31 Compared to the climate conditions of dry inland
locations, the climate conditions of locations influenced
by a nearby ocean generally result in
(1) hotter summers and colder winters, with a larger
annual range of temperatures
(2) hotter summers and colder winters, with a
smaller annual range of temperatures
(3) cooler summers and warmer winters, with a
larger annual range of temperatures
(4) cooler summers and warmer winters, with a
smaller annual range of temperatures
32 Biotite mica and muscovite mica have different
chemical compositions. Compared to the magma from
which biotite mica forms, the magma from which
muscovite mica forms is usually
(1) more mafic and less dense
(2) more mafic and more dense
(3) more felsic and less dense
(4) more felsic and more dense
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 28
33 An increase in the amount of which atmospheric gas is
thought to cause global climate warming?
(1) oxygen
(3) nitrogen
(2) hydrogen
(4) carbon dioxide
34 The diagram below shows a drill core of sediment that
was taken from the bottom of a lake.
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 through 39 on the
water cycle diagram shown below. Some arrows are
numbered 1 through 4 and represent various processes.
Which types of rock would most likely form from
compaction and cementation of these sediments?
(1) sandstone and limestone
(2) shale and coal
(3) breccia and rock salt
(4) conglomerate and siltstone
35 Which intrusive igneous rock could be composed of
approximately 60% pyroxene, 25% plagioclase feldspar,
10% olivine, and 5% amphibole?
(1) granite
(3) gabbro
(2) rhyolite
(4) basalt
36 Which numbered arrow best represents the process of
transpiration?
(1) 1
(3) 3
(2) 2
(4) 4
37 The clouds have formed primarily because moist air
(1) rises, expands, and cools
(2) rises, expands, and warms
(3) sinks, compresses, and cools
(4) sinks, compresses, and warms
38 For
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
infiltration to occur, the ground must be
permeable and saturated
permeable and not saturated
impermeable and saturated
impermeable and not saturated
39 Which atmospheric condition is most likely responsible
for the wind blowing the clouds from the sea toward the
land?
(1) high air temperature over the sea and low air
temperature over the land
(2) high air pressure over the sea and low air
pressure over the land
(3) low air density over the sea and high air density
over the land
(4) low visibility over the sea and high visibility over
the land
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 29
Base your answers to questions 40 through 42 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.
40 At which location could an
total solar eclipse if the skies
(1) A
(2) B
Base your answers to questions 43 through 46 on the two
topographic maps below. A grid system of numbers and
letters appears along the edge of each map to help locate
features. Both maps show elevations in feet above sea
level.
observer have viewed this
were clear?
(3) C
(4) D
41 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.
42 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.)
43 Which statement correctly describes one difference
between these maps?
(1) Map A has a greater relief (elevation change
between high and low locations) than map B.
(2) Map A represents a much larger surface area
than map B.
(3) Map A shows more contour lines than map B.
(4) Map A generally shows gentler slopes than map B.
44 On map B, what is the approximate straight-line
distance from the center of the X within grid area B–11
to the center of the X within grid area H–11?
(1) 0.3 mi
(3) 1.2 mi
(2) 0.6 mi
(4) 1.5 mi
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 30
45 Which direction is the stream mainly flowing within
grid area H–1 on map B?
(1) northward
(3) eastward
(2) southward
(4) westward
46 Which cross section best represents the topographic
profile along the straight line from point Y to point Z on
map B?
47 The Tonga Trench is located at the tectonic boundary
between the Pacific Plate and the
(1) Antarctic Plate
(2) Philippine Plate
(3) Indian-Australian Plate
(4) Nazca Plate
48 The greatest number of earthquakes shown in the
cross section occurred
(1) at sea level
(2) between sea level and a depth of 100 km
(3) at a depth between 100 and 300 km
(4) at a depth between 300 and 600 km
49 Which cross section has arrows that best represent
the relative motion of the crustal plates along the
Wadati-Benioff zone beneath the Tonga Trench?
Base your answers to questions 47 through 50 on the
information, map, and cross section below. The map
represents a portion of Earth’s surface in the Pacific
Ocean. The positions of islands, earthquake epicenters,
active volcanoes, and the Tonga Trench are shown. Lines
of latitude and longitude have been included. The cross
section shows earthquakes that occurred beneath line XY
on the map. Depth beneath Earth’s surface is indicated by
the scale along the left side of the cross section, as are
the range of depths for shallow, intermediate, and deep
earthquakes. Distance from the trench is indicated by the
scale along the bottom of the cross section.
50 The latitude and longitude of the center of Vanau Leva
is closest to
(1) 17° N 179° W
(3) 17° S 179° E
(2) 17° N 181° W
(4) 17° S 181° E
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 31
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–64): Record your answers in the spaces
below. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
53 State the average number of days per year that
Syracuse, New York, will experience hail. [1]
days/yr
54 The table below shows weather conditions recorded in
Syracuse, New York, at the time of a severe hailstorm.
Base your answers to questions 51 through 55 on the
data table and map below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The data table shows the altitude of the top of a
thunderstorm cloud and the probability of hail being
formed for a location in New York State. The map shows
the average number of days per year hail strikes the
ground in different regions of the United States.
On the weather map station model below, use the correct
symbols and proper format to indicate the six weather
conditions shown in the table. [2]
55 State one way that humans could protect themselves
from harm if a severe hail warning is issued for their
locality. [1]
Base your answers to questions 56 through 59 on the
geologic time line shown below. Letters a through g on the
time line indicate specific reference points in geologic
time.
51 Describe the relationship between the altitude of the
top of a thunderstorm cloud and the probability that hail
will be produced by that cloud. [1]
52 Into which atmospheric temperature zone (layer)
above New York State would the top of a thunderstorm
cloud extend to have a 100% probability of hail? [1]
56 Place an X on the above geologic time line, so that the
center of the X shows the time that the coral index fossil
Lichenaria shown below existed on Earth. [1]
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 32
57 Letter a indicates a specific time during which
geologic period? [1]
Period
58 Identify the mountain building event (orogeny) that
was occurring in eastern North America at the time
represented by letter g. [1]
62 The diagram below represents a beaker of water that
is being heated. As the colored dye pellet dissolves, the
dye will show the movement of water in the beaker. On
the diagram, draw arrows in the water to show the
direction the colored dye will move when the water is
heated as shown. [1]
Orogeny
59 Identify one letter that indicates a time for which
there is no rock record in New York State. [1]
Base your answers to questions 60 and 61 on the geologic
cross section shown below and on your knowledge of
Earth science. The cross section shows the surface of a
landscape region in the southwestern United States and
indicates the age, type, and thickness of the bedrock.
60 State one characteristic, other than the horizontal
bedrock structure, shown in the cross section that
supports the idea that this region is correctly classified
as a plateau landscape. [1]
Base your answers to questions 63 and 64 on the diagram
below, which shows two seismogram tracings, at
stations A and B, for the same earthquake. The arrival
times of the P-waves and S-waves are indicated on each
tracing.
61 Which New York State landscape region has surface
bedrock of the same geologic age as the surface bedrock
shown in this cross section? [1]
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 33
63 Explain how the seismic tracings recorded at station A
and station B indicate that station A is farther from the
earthquake epicenter than station B. [1]
counterclockwise direction. Both clockwise- and
counterclockwise-spiraled snail fossils have been found in
New York State bedrock.
66 In a slab of rock that contains many fossil snails, what
evidence would lead geologists to conclude that the slab
was formed in a tropical climate? [1]
64 Seismic station A is located 5,400 kilometers from
the epicenter of the earthquake. How much time would it
take for the first S-wave produced by this earthquake to
reach seismic station A? [1]
min
67 State one reason bedrock that formed in tropical
regions is found in New York State. [1]
sec
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (65–82): Record your answers in the spaces
below. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
65 The diagram below shows the average distance
between the Sun and Earth drawn to a scale of 1
centimeter = 100,000,000 kilometers. Using this same
scale, place a small dot representing Jupiter along the
line to indicate how far Jupiter would be from the Sun,
and label the dot “Jupiter.” [1]
Base your answers to questions 66 and 67 on the diagram
and information below about fossil snails and on your
knowledge of Earth science.
Base your answers to questions 68 through 70 on the
data table below, which shows the average date of the
first breakup of ice on the Tanana River at Nenana,
Alaska (65° N 149° W). The average date of the first ice
breakup is shown for four decades.
68 On the grid below, construct a bar graph of the
average date of the first ice breakup for each decade
shown on the data table. [1]
Snails have lived in most of the world’s oceans over
a period of hundreds of millions of years. Paleontologists
discovered that in warm, tropical waters more snails
have shells that, when viewed from the top, spiral
outward in a clockwise direction. In cool or cold waters,
more snails have shells that spiral outward in a
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 34
69 State one possible climate change responsible for the
difference in the average dates of the first ice breakups
shown by the data table. [1]
72 Place a circle, o , on the orbital path where the
velocity of the asteroid would be the least. [1]
73 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. [1]
70 Explain why the number of daylight hours on May 5
for an observer located at Nenana, Alaska, will be
different than the number of daylight hours for an
observer located at New York, New York (41° N 73° 45'
W). [1]
Base your answers to questions 74 through 77 on the
three western New York State snowfall maps below and
on your knowledge of Earth science. The three maps
represent three different winter seasons. The isolines
show the total inches of snowfall received each winter
season. Some western New York State counties are
labeled on each map. The dotted line AB has been drawn on
the 1991–1992 winter season map.
71 Complete the table below, by listing three agents of
erosion and identifying one characteristic surface feature
formed by each agent of erosion. [2]
Base your answers to questions 72 and 73 on the diagram
below, which represents an asteroid’s elliptical orbit
around the Sun. The dashed line is the major axis of the
ellipse.
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 35
76 On the grid below, draw a line graph to show the
general relation-ship between the amount of snowfall
recorded in northern Erie County with the amount of
snowfall recorded in southern Erie County, as shown on
the three snowfall maps. [1]
74 Calculate the average snowfall gradient along the
dotted line between points A and B on the 1991–1992
winter season map, and label your answer with the
correct units. [2]
77 On the map below that shows the total inches of
snowfall received at various locations for the
1984–1985 winter season, draw the 120-inch snowfall
isoline. [1]
75 Once the surface of Lake Erie completely freezes over
with ice, the amount of snow from each snowstorm is
usually reduced. Explain why a covering of ice on Lake
Erie may cause the amount of snow from snowstorms to
be reduced. [1]
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 36
Base your answers to questions 78 and 79 on the passage
below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Radiocarbon Dating
Radioactive carbon-14 (C14 ), because of its short
half-life, is used for the absolute dating of organic
remains that are less than 70,000 years old.
Carbon-14 is an isotope of carbon that is produced in
Earth’s upper atmosphere. High-energy cosmic rays from
the Sun hit nitrogen-14 (N14 ), producing radioactive C 14 .
This C14 is unstable and will eventually change back into
N 14 through the process of radioactive decay. The
proportions of C14 and ordinary C12 in Earth’s
atmosphere remain approximately constant.
Radioactive C 14 , just like ordinary C12 , can combine
with oxygen to make carbon dioxide. Plants use CO2
during photosynthesis. The proportion of C14 to C12 in the
cells and tissues of living plants is the same as the
proportion of C14 to C12 in the atmosphere. After plants
die, no new C14 is taken in because there is no more
photosynthesis. Meanwhile, the C14 in the dead plant
keeps changing back to N14 , so there is less and less C14.
The longer the plant has been dead, the less C14 is found
in the plant. The age of organic remains can be found by
comparing how much C14 is still in the organic remains to
how much C14 is in a living organism.
Earth 65 million years ago and that, even if it did, it did
not cause the mass extinction of life attributed to it.
There is also the possibility that dinosaurs may not have
been around to witness it!
by Paul Chambers
http://www.forteantimes.com/articles/111_asteroid.shtml (6/98)
80 If an asteroid struck Earth 65 million years ago, what
surface feature was most likely created by this asteroid
impact? [1]
81 Identify one geologic process occurring on Earth that
could have hidden or even destroyed this inferred impact
feature. [1]
82 Explain how an asteroid impact may have been able to
cause a worldwide mass extinction of dinosaurs. [1]
78 Radioactive C14 was used to determine the geologic
age of old wood preserved in a glacier. The amount of C14
in the old wood is half the normal amount of C14 currently
found in the wood of living trees. What is the geologic age
of the old wood? [1]
yr
79 State one difference between dating with the
radioactive isotope C14 and dating with the radioactive
isotope uranium-238 (U238 ). [1]
Base your answers to questions 80 through 82 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Great Balls of Fire
The Earth’s predicted near-miss with asteroid XF11
in the year 2028 has once again focused attention on the
fear that a large asteroid or comet hitting our planet
could trigger a global catastrophe.
To back this up, every article and television program
about XF11 boldly asserted that the dinosaur extinction
was caused by a giant asteroid impacting into the Earth
65 million years ago. This has typically been accompanied
by a picture of frightened dinosaurs looking skyward at a
huge flaming meteorite streaking across the horizon. This
scenario is so widely accepted that few commentators
bother to question it any more. There is, however, much
evidence to suggest that an asteroid may not have hit the
Earth Science August 2005 Page: 37
Physical Setting Earth Science Jan 2006
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
5 The diagram below shows a satellite in four different
positions as it revolves around a planet.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 Which event takes the most time?
(1) one revolution of Earth around the Sun
(2) one revolution of Venus around the Sun
(3) one rotation of the Moon on its axis
(4) one rotation of Venus on its axis
2 Compared to the Jovian planets in our solar system,
Earth is
(1) less dense and closer to the Sun
(2) less dense and farther from the Sun
(3) more dense and closer to the Sun
(4) more dense and farther from the Sun
Which graph best represents the changes in this
satellite’s orbital velocity as it revolves around the
planet?
3 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
4 The lines on which set of views best represent Earth’s
latitude system?
6 At which New York State location will an observer
most likely measure the altitude of Polaris a s
approximately 42°?
(1) Jamestown
(3) Oswego
(2) Plattsburgh
(4) New York City
7 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.
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 38
8 Compared to the surface temperature and luminosity of
massive stars in the Main Sequence, the smaller stars in
the Main Sequence are
(1) hotter and less luminous
(2) hotter and more luminous
(3) cooler and less luminous
(4) cooler and more luminous
9 Which factor most likely causes two cities at the same
elevation and latitude to have different yearly average
temperature ranges?
(1) rotation of Earth
(2) duration of insolation
(3) distance from a large body of water
(4) direction of prevailing winds
10 Which set of surface soil conditions on a hillside would
result in the most infiltration of rainfall?
(1) gentle slope, saturated soil, no vegetation
(2) gentle slope, unsaturated soil, vegetation
(3) steep slope, saturated soil, vegetation
(4) steep slope, unsaturated soil, no vegetation
15 Which sequence shows the correct order of Earth’s
geologic time intervals from oldest to youngest?
(1) Archean → Mesozoic → Cenozoic → Paleozoic →
Proterozoic
(2) Archean → Proterozoic → Paleozoic → Mesozoic →
Cenozoic
(3) Cenozoic → Mesozoic → Paleozoic → Proterozoic →
Archean
(4) Cenozoic → Paleozoic → Archean → Mesozoic →
Proterozoic
16 In which direction do the surface winds blow around a
high-pressure system in the Northern Hemisphere?
(1) clockwise and inward
(2) clockwise and outward
(3) counterclockwise and inward
(4) counterclockwise and outward
17 The cross section below shows the flow of winds over
a mountain ridge.
11 Scientists have inferred that Earth’s original
atmosphere was formed by the
(1) outgassing from Earth’s interior
(2) erosion of Earth’s surface
(3) decay of microorganisms in Earth’s oceans
(4) radioactive decay of elements in Earth’s core
12 Most New York State sandstone bedrock was formed
(1) in Earth’s interior where temperatures exceeded
the melting point of quartz
(2) on Earth’s surface from the cooling of molten lava
(3) in a delta from sand grains deposited, buried, and
cemented together by minerals
(4) in a desert when heat and metamorphic pressure
caused quartz crystals to fuse together
13 Which statement best explains why no Permianage
bedrock is found in New York State?
(1) The extinction of many life-forms occurred at the
end of the Permian Period.
(2) Only rocks of igneous origin formed in New York
State during the Permian Period.
(3) Permian-age rocks have been metamorphosed and
cannot be identified.
(4) Permian-age rocks were either eroded away or
never formed in New York State.
14 A fossil shell contains 25% of the original amount of
its carbon-14. Approximately how many years ago was
this shell part of a living organism?
(1) 5,700 years ago
(3) 17,100 years ago
(2) 11,400 years ago
(4) 22,800 years ago
The heaviest rainfall would most likely occur on which
side of this mountain and in which type of air mass?
(1) on the leeward side, in a mP air mass
(2) on the leeward side, in a cT air mass
(3) on the windward side, in a mT air mass
(4) on the windward side, in a cP air mass
18 Various weather conditions at LaGuardia Airport in
New York City are shown on the station model below.
What were the barometric pressure and weather
conditions at the airport at the time of the observation?
(1) 914.6 mb of pressure and smog
(2) 914.6 mb of pressure and a clear sky
(3) 1014.6 mb of pressure and smog
(4) 1014.6 mb of pressure and a clear sky
19 The properties of an air mass are mostly determined
by the
(1) rate of Earth’s rotation
(2) direction of Earth’s surface winds
(3) source region where the air mass formed
(4) path the air mass follows along a land surface
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 39
20 Which list correctly matches each instrument with the
weather variable it measures?
(1) wind vane—wind speed thermometer—temperature
precipitation gauge—relative humidity
(2) wind vane—wind direction thermometer—dewpoint
psychrometer—air pressure
(3) barometer—relative humidity anemometer—cloud
cover precipitation gauge—probability of precipitation
(4) barometer—air pressure anemometer—wind speed
psychrometer—relative humidity
24 Which statement best explains why only one type of
seismic wave was recorded at location B ?
(1) S -waves cannot travel through the liquid outer
core.
(2) S -waves cannot travel through the liquid inner
core.
(3) P -waves cannot travel through the solid outer
core.
(4) P -waves cannot travel through the solid inner
core.
21 What is the difference between the dry-bulb
temperature and the wet-bulb temperature when the
relative humidity is 28% and the dry-bulb temperature is
0°C?
(1) 11°C
(3) 28°C
(2) 2°C
(4) 4°C
25 A seismic station located at point A is 5400
kilometers away from the epicenter of the earthquake. If
the arrival time for the P -wave at point A was 2:00
p.m., the arrival time for the S -wave at point A w a s
approximately
(1) 1:53 p.m.
(3) 2:09 p.m.
(2) 2:07 p.m.
(4) 2:16 p.m.
22 Based on the theory of plate tectonics, it is inferred
that over the past 250 million years North America has
moved toward the
(1) northwest
(3) southeast
(2) southwest
(4) northeast
26 The cross section below shows a drill rig used to
collect rock samples from below Earth’s surface.
23 According to tectonic plate maps, New York State is
presently located
(1) at a convergent plate boundary
(2) above a mantle hot spot
(3) above a mid-ocean ridge
(4) near the center of a large plate
Base your answers to questions 24 and 25 on the crosssectional view of Earth below, which shows seismic
waves traveling from the focus of an earthquake. Points
A and B are locations on Earth’s surface.
The rock samples collected from the bottom of the drill
hole came from which Earth layer?
(1) lithosphere
(3) asthenosphere
(2) hydrosphere
(4) stiffer mantle
27 Which sequence shows the order in which landscape
regions are crossed as an airplane flies in a straight
course from Albany, New York, to Massena, New York?
(1) plateau → plain → mountain
(2) plateau → mountain → plain
(3) plain → mountain → plain
(4) mountain → plain → plateau
28 Why are Precambrian gneiss cobbles and boulders
commonly found on top of the surface bedrock in the
Catskills?
(1) The surface bedrock of the Catskills is composed
of Precambrian gneiss.
(2) The surface bedrock of the Catskills has been
overturned.
(3) Many meteorites composed of gneiss have landed
in the Catskills.
(4) Glaciers transported these rocks from the
Adirondacks to the Catskills.
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 40
29 Which component of Earth’s atmosphere is classified
as a greenhouse gas?
(1) oxygen
(3) helium
(2) carbon dioxide
(4) hydrogen
32 Equal volumes of the four samples shown below were
placed outside and heated by energy from the Sun’s rays
for 30 minutes. Iron fragments Basaltic sand Copper
pennies Water
30 The cross section below shows the rock structure of a
deeply eroded, domed mountain region.
The surface temperature of which sample increased at
the slowest rate?
(1) water
(3) basaltic sand
(2) copper pennies
(4) iron fragments
33 Which graph best represents the relative wavelengths
of the different forms of electromagnetic energy?
Which map shows the stream drainage pattern that will
most likely develop as the bedrock is weathered and
eroded from this igneous dome?
31 The cross section below shows layers of soil.
34 The three statements below are observations of the
same rock sample:
• The rock has intergrown crystals from 2 to 3
millimeters in diameter.
• The minerals in the rock are gray feldspar, green
olivine, green pyroxene, and black amphibole.
• There are no visible gas pockets in the rock.
This rock sample is most likely
(1) sandstone
(3) granite
(2) gabbro
(4) phyllite
35 Most rock gypsum is formed by the
(1) heating of previously existing foliated bedrock
(2) cooling and solidification of lava
(3) compaction and cementation of shells and skeletal
remains
(4) chemical precipitation of minerals from seawater
Which two processes produced the layer of dark brown to
black soil?
(1) melting and solidification of magma
(2) erosion and uplifting
(3) weathering and biologic activity
(4) compaction and cementation
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 41
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
38 Which map shows the regions that are most likely
experiencing the precipitation associated with this
weather system?
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 on the
weather map below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The weather map shows a typical low-pressure
system and associated weather fronts labeled A and B .
The L indicates the center of the low-pressure system. A
few New York State cities are shown. Symbols cP and mT
represent different air masses. The wind direction at
Utica and Rochester is shown on the station models.
Base your answers to questions 39 through 41 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.
36 Which front symbols are drawn correctly, based on
the air masses shown?
39 Which diagram best represents the length of the pin’s
shadow at 2 p.m. on March 21?
37 If this weather system is following a normal storm
track, the center of this low is most likely moving
toward which city?
(1) Buffalo
(3) Utica
(2) Ithaca
(4) Plattsburgh
40 The changing location of the pin’s shadow on March 21
is caused by
(1) the Sun’s rotation
(3) Earth’s rotation
(2) the Sun’s revolution
(4) Earth’s revolution
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 42
41 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.
44 If the mass of a spinel crystal is 9.5 grams, what is
the volume of this spinel crystal?
(1) 0.4 cm3
(3) 5.7 cm3
(2) 2.5 cm3
(4) 36.1 cm3
45 The hardness and density of each gemstone is based
primarily on the gemstone’s
(1) internal arrangement of atoms
(2) geologic time of formation
(3) oxygen content
(4) natural abundance
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
Base your answers to questions 42 through 46 on the two
tables below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Table 1 shows the composition, hardness, and average
density of four minerals often used as gemstones. Table 2
lists the minerals in Moh’s Scale of Hardness from 1
(softest) to 10 (hardest).
46 Which gemstone minerals contain the two most
abundant elements by mass in Earth’s crust?
(1) emerald and spinel
(3) sapphire and spinel
(2) emerald and zircon
(4) sapphire and zircon
Base your answers to questions 47 through 50 on the
cross section below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The cross section shows the general movement
of air within a portion of Earth’s atmosphere located
between 30° N and 30° S latitude. Numbers 1 and 2
represent different locations in the atmosphere.
47 Which temperature zone layer of Earth’s atmosphere
is shown in the cross section?
(1) troposphere
(3) mesosphere
(2) stratosphere
(4) thermosphere
48 The air movement shown in the cross section is due to
the process of
(1) condensation
(3) evaporation
(2) conduction
(4) convection
42 Part of a gemstone’s value is based on the way the
gemstone shines in reflected light. The way a mineral
reflects light is described as the mineral’s
(1) fracture
(3) luster
(2) hardness
(4) streak
49 What is the approximate percentage by volume of
oxygen present in Earth’s atmosphere at location 2?
(1) 10%
(3) 33%
(2) 21%
(4) 46%
43 Sapphire is a gemstone variety of which mineral on
Moh’s scale of hardness?
(1) corundum
(3) fluorite
(2) diamond
(4) topaz
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 43
50 Which map best shows the surface movement of winds
between 30° N and 30° S latitude?
51 State one piece of evidence used by scientists to
support the theory that the Big Bang event occurred. [1]
52 How
elapsed
and the
model?
Ans:
many million years of Earth’s geologic history
between the event that occurred on September 10
event that occurred on September 25 in this
[1]
million years
Base your answers to questions 53 through 56 on the
world map below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
The map shows major earthquakes and volcanic activity
occurring from 1996 through 2000. Letter A represents
a volcano on a crustal plate boundary.
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–65): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 and 52 on the
calendar model shown below of the inferred history of the
universe and on your knowledge of Earth science. The 12month time line begins with the Big Bang on January 1 and
continues to the present time, which is represented by
midnight on December 31. Several inferred events and
the relative times of their occurrence have been placed in
the appropriate locations on the time line.
53 Place an X on the above map to show the location of
the Nazca Plate. [1]
54 Explain why most major earthquakes are found in
specific zones instead of being randomly scattered across
Earth’s surface. [1]
55 Identify the source of the magma for the volcanic
activity in Hawaii. [1]
56 Identify the type of plate movement responsible for
the presence of the volcano at location A . [1]
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 44
Base your answers to questions 57 through 59 on the
diagram below, which shows the Moon’s orbit around
Earth. Four positions of the Moon are represented by
letters A , B , C , and D . Earth’s North Pole is labeled. The
shaded areas on Earth and the Moon represent night.
62 Complete the classification table below by filling in the
general fossil group name for each index fossil. [1]
Base your answers to questions 63 through 65 on the
cross section below, which shows an area near
Watertown, New York. The top layer of soil contains
broken rock fragments. A representative sample of this
layer has been magnified.
57 What motion of the Moon results in the Moon phases as
viewed from Earth? [1]
58 A total solar eclipse sometimes occurs when the Moon
is at position A . Explain why a total solar eclipse does not
occur every time the Moon is at position A . [1]
59 State one season that begins when the line separating
day and night passes through Earth’s North Pole, as
shown in this diagram. [1]
Base your answers to questions 60 through 62 on the
table of index fossils shown below and on your knowledge
of Earth science.
63 Identify one mineral that could be found in all three
rock fragments shown in the magnified view. [1]
64 State one observable characteristic, other than
mineral composition, that could help identify the gneiss
fragment. [1]
65 Rocks and minerals are natural resources that are
mined in New York State. State one negative impact that
should be considered before mining these natural
resources. [1]
60 During what geologic time period did the oldest index
fossil shown in this table exist? [1]
Ans:
Period
61 State one characteristic of a good index fossil. [1]
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 45
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
69 In the box below , draw a cross-sectional view of the
general shape of the stream bottom between points A and
B . The water surface line has already been drawn. [1]
Directions (66–83): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 66 through 68 on the
information below, which describes the past and present
climate of Antarctica, and on your knowledge of Earth
science.
Antarctica’s ice sheet has an average thickness of
6600 feet and holds approximately 70% of Earth’s
freshwater. Ice layers in Antarctica preserve
information about Earth’s history. Fossil evidence found
in the bedrock of this continent shows that Antarctica
was once tropical and is a potential source of untapped
natural resources. Antarctica is now a frozen desert with
very little snowfall.
66 Explain why Antarctica’s cold climate is responsible
for its very low amount of yearly precipitation. [1]
70 State the relationship between stream velocity and
the size of the sediment the stream can carry. [1]
71 Describe how the size and shape of most pebbles
change when the pebbles are transported in a stream over
a great distance. [1]
Size:
Shape:
67 What evidence is preserved in Antarctica that
provides information about Earth’s past climates? [1]
68 Scientists are concerned that the Antarctic ice may
melt as the result of global warming. State one effect
that this melting would most likely have on Long Island,
New York. [1]
72 The stream velocity at point C is 100 centimeters per
second and the stream velocity at point D is 40
centimeters per second. Identify one sediment particle
most likely being deposited between points C and D . [1]
Ans:
73 Deposition is affected by particle density. On the grid
below , draw a line to show the relationship between
particle density and settling rate. [1]
Base your answers to questions 69 through 73 on the map
below, which shows a meandering stream as it enters a
lake. Points A through D represent locations in the
stream.
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 46
Base your answers to questions 74 through 77 on the
passage below, the map below, and your knowledge of
Earth science. The map shows ocean depths, measured in
meters, off the coast of Massachusetts. Points A, B, and
C represent locations on the ocean floor. The Stellwagen
Bank discussed in the passage is lightly shaded and labeled
on the map.
creatures and fish feed on the phytoplankton. Whales can
be found in abundance at the Stellwagen Bank feeding on
the many ocean life-forms.
The Stellwagen Bank
75 Identify the most probable cold ocean current causing
the upwelling of nutrients over the Stellwagen Bank. [1]
One of the most exciting adventures for a visitor to
Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is going on a whale watch.
Large boats leave port two to three times each day
carrying passengers to a specific location in the Atlantic
Ocean to see the whales. How do the captains of the boats
know where to find the whales?
The answer is simple. They look for the whales over
an area known as the Stellwagen Bank, which is a large
undersea deposit of unsorted sand and gravel. The
Stellwagen Bank is inferred by scientists to have formed
during the Pleistocene Epoch from the slow retreat of
massive Ice Age glaciers across this area. Today, cool
ocean currents come from the north and flow up and over
the Stellwagen Bank. These currents bring nutrients to
the surface from deep in the ocean, providing food for
oceanic phytoplankton (small plants). Small ocean
74 Most whale watching takes place at 42° 25°¨ N and
70° 25°¨ W. On the map below , place an X at this
location. [1]
Ans:
Current
76 What evidence indicates that the ocean floor has a
steep slope at point C ? [1]
77 Calculate the average ocean-floor gradient between
point A and point B . Label your answer with the correct
units. [2]
Gradient =
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 47
Base your answers to questions 78 through 80 on the
data table below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Iridium is an element rarely found in Earth’s lithosphere
but commonly found in asteroids. The data table shows
the abundance of iridium, in parts per billion (ppb), found
in a rock core sample taken in Carlsbad, New Mexico.
78 On the grid below , construct a line graph of iridium
abundance at various depths. Place an X to show the
iridium abundance at each depth shown on the data table.
Connect the Xs with a line. [2]
79 The high concentration of iridium in this rock core
sample has been matched to rock layers that have been
dated to the geologic time when dinosaur extinction from
an asteroid impact may have occurred. Between which
two geologic time periods did this inferred extinction
occur? [1]
Period and
Period
80 Other than iridium in the rock layers, what surface
feature was most likely created when this asteroid
impacted Earth’s crust? [1]
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 48
Base your answers to questions 81 through 83 on the cross sections below, which show widely separated outcrops at
locations W , X , Y , and Z . The rock layers have not been overturned. Line AB in the cross section at location W
represents an unconformity. Fossils are shown in some of the layers.
81 Determine the relative geologic age of the four fossils by correlating the rock layers between these outcrops.
Below , number the fossils from 1 to 4 in order of relative age, with 1 as the oldest and 4 as the youngest. [1]
82 What evidence shown in the outcrop at location W suggests that the igneous intrusion occurred after both fossils
were deposited at location W ? [1]
83 Identify two of the processes involved in the formation of the unconformity represented by line AB in the cross
section at location W . [1]
Process 1:
Process 2:
Earth Science January 2006 Page: 49
Earth Science June, 2006
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question,
choose the number of the word or expression that, of
those given, best completes the statement or answers the
question. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference
1 Which object is closest to Earth?
(1) the Sun
(3) the Moon
(2) Venus
(4) Mars
2 The diagram below shows an observer on Earth
measuring the altitude of Polaris.
Spring ocean tides occur when the difference in height
between high tide and low tide is greatest. At which two
positions of the Moon will spring tides occur on Earth?
(1) 1 and 5
(3) 3 and 7
(2) 2 and 6
(4) 4 and 8
6 Compared to other groups of stars, the group that has
relatively low luminosities and relatively low
temperatures is the
(1) Red Dwarfs
(3) Red Giants
(2) White Dwarfs
(4) Blue Supergiants
7 Which sequence correctly lists the relative sizes from
smallest to largest?
(1) our solar system, universe, Milky Way Galaxy
(2) our solar system, Milky Way Galaxy, universe
(3) Milky Way Galaxy, our solar system, universe
(4) Milky Way Galaxy, universe, our solar system
8 The diagram below represents a swinging Foucault
pendulum.
What is the latitude of this observer?
(1) 90° N
(3) 43° N
(2) 66.5° N
(4) 23.5° N
3 What is the minimum water velocity needed in a stream
to maintain the transportation of the smallest boulder?
(1) 100 cm/sec
(3) 300 cm/sec
(2) 200 cm/sec
(4) 500 cm/sec
4 Earth’s early atmosphere formed during the Early
Archean Era. Which gas was generally absent from the
atmosphere at that time?
(1) water vapor
(3) nitrogen
(2) carbon dioxide
(4) oxygen
This pendulum will show an apparent change in the
direction of its swing due to Earth’s
(1) curved surface
(3) rotation
(2) tilted axis
(4) revolution
9 The diagram below shows the altitude of the Sun at
solar noon on March 21, as seen by an observer at 42° N
latitude.
5 The diagram below shows the Moon orbiting Earth, as
viewed from space above Earth’s North Pole. The Moon is
shown at eight positions in its orbit.
Compared to the altitude of the Sun observed at solar
noon on March 21, the altitude of the Sun observed at
solar noon on June 21 will be
(1) 15° higher in the sky
(2) 23.5° higher in the sky
(3) 42° higher in the sky
(4) 48° higher in the sky
June 2006 Page: 50
10 The diagram below shows Earth’s orbit around the Sun
and different positions of the Moon as it travels around
Earth. Letters A through D represent four different
positions of the Moon.
14 On a day with no wind, the air temperature outside a
house is 10°C. The air temperature inside the house is
18°C. Which diagram best represents the air circulation
pattern that is most likely to occur when a window of the
house is first opened?
An eclipse of the Moon is most likely to occur when the
Moon is at position
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
11 In the Northern Hemisphere, planetary winds blowing
from north to south are deflected, or curved, toward the
west. This deflection is caused by the
(1) unequal heating of land and water surfaces
(2) movement of low-pressure weather systems
(3) orbiting of Earth around the Sun
(4) spinning of Earth on its axis
12 The table below shows air-pressure readings taken at
two cities, in the same region of the United States, at
noon on four different days. Air-Pressure Readings
15 Most of the Gulf Stream Ocean Current is
(1) warm water that flows southwestward
(2) warm water that flows northeastward
(3) cool water that flows southwestward
(4) cool water that flows northeastward
16 Which event is the best example of erosion?
(1) breaking apart of shale as a result of water
freezing in a crack
(2) dissolving of rock particles on a limestone
gravestone by acid rain
(3) rolling of a pebble along the bottom of a stream
(4) crumbling of bedrock in one area to form soil
17 Which graph best shows the relationship between the
concentration of carbon dioxide in Earth’s atmosphere and
the amount of infrared radiation absorbed by the
atmosphere?
The wind speed in the region between cities A and B was
probably the greatest at noon on day
(1) 1
(3) 3
(2) 2
(4) 4
13 If the base of a cloud is located at an altitude of 2
kilometers and the top of the cloud is located at an
altitude of 8 kilometers, this cloud is located in the
(1) troposphere, only
(2) stratosphere, only
(3) troposphere and stratosphere
(4) stratosphere and mesosphere
June 2006 Page: 51
18 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.
22 Which coastal area is most likely to experience a
severe earthquake?
(1) east coast of North America
(2) east coast of Australia
(3) west coast of Africa
(4) west coast of South America
23 Which characteristic is most useful in correlating
Devonian-age sedimentary bedrock in New York State
with Devonian-age sedimentary bedrock in other parts of
the world?
(1) color
(3) rock types
(2) index fossils
(4) particle size
The time at point X is closest to
(1) 6 a.m.
(3) 6 p.m.
(2) 12 noon
(4) 12 midnight
19 Snowfall is rare at the South Pole because the air
over the South Pole is usually
(1) rising and moist
(3) sinking and moist
(2) rising and dry
(4) sinking and dry
20 The four streams shown on the topographic maps
below have the same volume between X and Y. The
distance from X to Y is also the same. All the maps are
drawn to the same scale and have the same contour
interval. Which map shows the stream with the greatest
velocity between points X and Y?
24 A seismic station 4000 kilometers from the epicenter
of an earthquake records the arrival time of the first
P-wave at 10:00:00. At what time did the first S-wave
arrive at this station?
(1) 9:55:00
(3) 10:07:05
(2) 10:05:40
(4) 10:12:40
25 Which statement correctly describes the density of
Earth’s mantle compared to the density of Earth’s core
and crust?
(1) The mantle is less dense than the core but more
dense than the crust.
(2) The mantle is less dense than both the core and
the crust.
(3) The mantle is more dense than the core but less
dense than the crust.
(4) The mantle is more dense than both the core and
the crust.
26 Convection currents in the plastic mantle are believed
to cause divergence of lithospheric plates at the
(1) Peru-Chile Trench
(2) Mariana Trench
(3) Canary Islands Hot Spot
(4) Iceland Hot Spot
27 According to fossil evidence, which sequence shows
the order in which these four life-forms first appeared on
Earth?
(1) reptiles —> amphibians —> insects —> fish
(2) insects —> fish —> reptiles —> amphibians
(3) amphibians —> reptiles —> fish —> insects
(4) fish —> insects —> amphibians —> reptiles
21 A student obtains a cup of quartz sand from a beach. A
saltwater solution is poured into the sand and allowed to
evaporate. The mineral residue from the saltwater
solution cements the sand grains together, forming a
material that is most similar in origin to
(1) an extrusive igneous rock
(2) an intrusive igneous rock
(3) a clastic sedimentary rock
(4) a foliated metamorphic rock
June 2006 Page: 52
28 The fossil below was found in surface bedrock in the
eastern United States.
Which statement best describes the formation of the rock
containing this fossil?
(1) The rock was formed by the metamorphism of
sedimentary rock deposited in a terrestrial
environment during the Cretaceous Period.
(2) The rock was formed by the compaction and
cementation of sediments deposited in a terrestrial
environment during the Triassic Period.
(3) The rock was formed by the compaction and
cementation of sediments deposited in a marine
environment during the Cambrian Period.
(4) The rock was formed from the solidification of
magma in a marine environment during the Triassic
Period.
30 The topographic map below shows a hill. Points X and
Y represent locations on the hill’s surface. Elevations are
shown in meters.
What is the gradient between points X and Y?
(1) 40 m/km
(3) 100 m/km
(2) 80 m/km
(4) 120 m/km
31 The diagram below shows a sling psychrometer.
29 The diagram below shows an index fossil found in
surface bedrock in some parts of New York State.
Based on the dry-bulb temperature and the wet-bulb
temperature, what is the relative humidity?
(1) 66%
(3) 51%
(2) 58%
(4) 12%
32 Arrows in the block diagram below show the relative
movement along a tectonic plate boundary.
In which New York State landscape region is this
gastropod fossil most likely found in the surface bedrock?
(1) Tug Hill Plateau
(3) Adirondack Mountains
(2) Allegheny Plateau
(4) Newark Lowlands
June 2006 Page: 53
Between which two tectonic plates does this type of plate
boundary exist?
(1) Nazca Plate and South American Plate
(2) Eurasian Plate and Indian-Australian Plate
(3) North American Plate and Eurasian Plate
(4) Pacific Plate and North American Plate
33 Which map shows the two correctly labeled air
masses that frequently converge in the central plains to
cause tornadoes?
34 The diagram below shows four mineral samples, each
having approximately the same mass.
If all four samples are placed together in a closed, dry
container and shaken vigorously for 10 minutes, which
mineral sample would experience the most abrasion?
(1) quartz
(3) pyroxene
(2) amphibole
(4) galena
35 Which block diagram best represents a portion of a
plateau?
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
choose the number of the word or expression that, of
those given, best completes the statement or answers the
question. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 on the
graph below, which shows the crustal temperature and
pressure conditions under which three different minerals
with the same chemical composition (Al2 SiO 5 )
crystallize.
36 Under which crustal temperature and pressure
conditions will andalusite form?
(1) 300°C and 6000 atmospheres
(2) 500°C and 2000 atmospheres
(3) 600°C and 4000 atmospheres
(4) 700°C and 8000 atmospheres
37 Which mineral has a chemical composition most
similar to andalusite, sillimanite, and kyanite?
(1) pyrite
(3) dolomite
(2) gypsum
(4) potassium feldspar
38 If bedrock at a collisional plate boundary contains
andalusite crystals, these crystals are changed into
sillimanite and/or kyanite as temperature and pressure
conditions increase. What is this process called?
(1) weathering
(3) metamorphism
(2) solidification
(4) cementation
June 2006 Page: 54
Base your answers to questions 39 through 41 on the
diagram below, which has lettered arrows showing the
motions of Earth and the Moon.
42 How many more boxes should be shaded to represent
the additional decayed material formed during the second
half-life?
(1) 12
(3) 3
(2) 6
(4) 0
43 Which radioactive isotope has a half-life closest in
duration to this radioactive sample?
(1) carbon-14
(3) uranium-238
(2) potassium-40
(4) rubidium-87
44 The photograph below shows a sign near the Esopus
Creek in Kingston, New York.
39 These lettered arrows represent motions that are
(1) noncyclic and unpredictable
(2) noncyclic and predictable
(3) cyclic and unpredictable
(4) cyclic and predictable
40 Which two motions are completed in about the same
amount of time?
(1) A and B
(3) C and D
(2) B and C
(4) A and D
41 Which lettered arrow represents the motion that
causes the Moon to show phases when viewed from
Earth?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
The main purpose of the word “watershed” on this sign
is to communicate that the Esopus Creek
(1) is a tributary of the Hudson River
(2) is a flood hazard where it flows into the Hudson
River
(3) forms a delta in the Hudson River
(4) contains ancient fish fossils
Base your answers to questions 42 and 43 on the
diagram below, which represents a model of a radioactive
sample with a half-life of 5000 years. The white boxes
represent undecayed radioactive material and the shaded
boxes represent the decayed material after the first
half-life.
June 2006 Page: 55
Base your answers to questions 45 and 46 on the
diagrams below. Diagrams A, B, and C represent three
different river valleys.
45 Which bar graph best represents the relative
gradients of the main rivers shown in diagrams A, B, and
C?
47 This graph shows that insolation varies with
(1) latitude and time of day
(2) latitude and time of year
(3) longitude and time of day
(4) longitude and time of year
48 Why is less insolation received at the equator in June
than in March or September?
(1) The daylight period is longest at the equator in
June.
(2) Winds blow insolation away from the equator in
June.
(3) The Sun’s vertical rays are north of the equator
in June.
(4) Thick clouds block the Sun’s vertical rays at the
equator in June.
49 Why is insolation 0 cal/cm2 /min from October
through February at 90° N?
(1) Snowfields reflect sunlight during that time.
(2) Dust in the atmosphere blocks sunlight during that
time.
(3) The Sun is continually below the horizon during
that time.
(4) Intense cold prevents insolation from being
absorbed during that time.
46 Most sediments found on the floodplain shown in
diagram A are likely to be
(1) angular and weathered from underlying bedrock
(2) angular and weathered from bedrock upstream
(3) rounded and weathered from underlying bedrock
(4) rounded and weathered from bedrock upstream
50 The diagram below shows tubes A and B partly filled
with equal volumes of round plastic beads of uniform size.
The beads in tube A are smaller than the beads in tube B.
Water was placed in tube A until the pore spaces were
filled. The drain valve was then opened, and the amount of
time for the water to drain from the tube was recorded.
The amount of water that remained around the beads was
then calculated and recorded. Data table 1 shows the
measurements recorded using tube A.
Base your answers to questions 47 through 49 on the
graph below, which shows the amount of insolation during
one year at four different latitudes on Earth’s surface.
June 2006 Page: 56
If the same procedure was followed with tube B, which
data table shows the measurements most likely
recorded?
Base your answers to questions 53 through 55 on the
flowchart below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
The flowchart shows the formation of some igneous
rocks. The circled letters A, B, C, and D indicate parts of
the flowchart that have not been labeled.
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–64): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 and 52 on the
diagrams below. The top diagram shows a depression and
hill on a gently sloping area. The bottom diagram is a
topographic map of the same area. Points A, X, and Y are
locations on Earth’s surface. A dashed line connects
points X and Y. Elevation is indicated in feet.
53 Contrast the rate of cooling at
that forms intrusive
that forms
igneous rock with the rate of cooling at
extrusive igneous rock. [1]
51 What is a possible elevation of point A? [1]
Answer:
ft
52 On the grid below, construct a topographic profile
along line XY, by plotting a point for the elevation of each
contour line that crosses line XY. Points X and Y have
already been plotted on the grid. Connect the points with a
smooth, curved line to complete the profile. [2]
54 Give the numerical grain-size range that should be
. Units must be included in
placed in the flowchart at
your answer. [1]
Answer:
to
55 State one igneous rock that could be placed in the
. [1]
flowchart at
Answer:
June 2006 Page: 57
Base your answers to questions 56 through 60 on the two
diagrams below. Diagram I shows the orbits of the four
inner planets. Black dots in diagram I show the positions
in the orbits where each planet is closest to the Sun.
Diagram II shows the orbits of the six planets that are
farthest from the Sun. The distance scale in diagram II is
different than the distance scale in diagram I.
56 On diagram I below, place the letter W on Mars’ orbit
to represent the position of Mars where the Sun’s
gravitational force on Mars would be weakest. [1]
59 Describe how the orbits of each of the nine planets are
similar in shape. [1]
60 Pluto’s orbital speed is usually slower than Neptune’s
orbital speed. Based on diagram II, explain why Pluto’s
orbital speed is sometimes faster than Neptune’s orbital
speed. [1]
Base your answers to questions 61 through 64 on the
map below, which shows the different lobes (sections) of
the Laurentide Ice Sheet, the last continental ice sheet
that covered most of New York State. The arrows show
the direction that the ice lobes flowed. The terminal
moraine shows the maximum advance of this ice sheet.
57 On diagram II below, circle the names of the two
largest Jovian planets. [1]
61 During which geologic epoch did the Laurentide Ice
Sheet advance over New York State? [1]
Answer:
Epoch
62 Describe the arrangement of rock material in the
sediments that were directly deposited by the glacier. [1]
63 According to the map, toward which compass
direction did the ice lobe flow over the Catskills? [1]
58 How long does it take the planet Uranus to complete
one orbit around the Sun? Units must be included in your
answer. [1]
Answer:
64 What evidence might be found on surface bedrock of
the Catskills that would indicate the direction of ice flow
in this region? [1]
June 2006 Page: 58
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (65–83): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 67 through 69 on the
cross section and bar graph below. The cross section
shows a portion of Earth’s crust along the western coast
of the United States. The points show different locations
on Earth’s surface. The arrows show the prevailing wind
direction. The bar below each point shows the yearly
precipitation at that location.
Base your answers to questions 65 and 66 on the
diagram below, which represents water molecules
attached to salt and dust particles within a cloud in the
atmosphere.
67 Explain why the valleys have lower amounts of
precipitation than points on the western slopes of the
mountain ranges. [1]
65 Explain why salt and dust particles are important in
cloud formation. [1]
68 What is the yearly precipitation total for the four
points located in the Coastal Mountain Ranges? [1]
Answer:
in
69 State one reason why colder temperatures would be
recorded at the top of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range
than at the top of the Coastal Mountain Ranges. [1]
66 State one natural process that causes large amounts
of dust to enter Earth’s atmosphere. [1]
June 2006 Page: 59
Base your answers to questions 70 and 71 on the diagram
below, which shows the latitude-longitude grid on a model
of Earth. Point Y is a location on Earth’s surface.
70 On the diagram below, place an X at 15° S 30° W. [1]
71 What is Earth’s rate of rotation at point Y, in degrees
per hour? [1]
Answer:
°/hr
Base your answers to questions 72 through 76 on the two
maps below and on your knowledge of Earth science. Both
maps show data from a December snowstorm. Map 1
shows the snowfall, measured in inches, at various
locations in New York State, Pennsylvania, and New
Jersey. Map 2 shows weather conditions in New York
State and the surrounding region during the storm. Letter
L represents the center of the low-pressure system that
produced the snowstorm. Isobars show air pressure, in
millibars.
72 On map 1 above, draw the 30.0-inch snowfall isoline.
Assume that the decimal point for each snowfall depth
marks the exact location where the snowfall was
measured. [1]
73 Most residents knew this storm was coming. State one
action a New York State resident should have taken to
prepare for a snow emergency. [1]
74 Using map 2, complete the table below by describing
the weather conditions at Buffalo, New York. [2]
75 Describe the general surface wind pattern around the
low-pressure center shown on map 2. [1]
June 2006 Page: 60
76 Toward which compass direction would this
low-pressure center most likely have moved if this
system followed a normal storm track? [1]
Answer:
Base your answers to questions 77 through 80 on the
geologic cross section below. The rock layers have not
been overturned. Point A is located in the zone of contact
metamorphism.
77 Which metamorphic rock most likely formed at point
A? [1]
Base your answers to questions 81 through 83 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
A New Oregon Volcano?
The Three Sisters are 10,000-foot volcanic mountain
peaks in Oregon. Volcanic eruptions began building the
Three Sisters from andesitic lava and cinders 700,000
years ago. The last major eruption occurred 2000 years
ago. West of the Three Sisters peaks, geologists have
recently discovered that Earth’s surface is bulging
upward in a bull’s-eye pattern 10 miles wide. There is a
4-inch rise at its center, which geologists believe could
be the beginning of another volcano. The uplift was found
by comparing satellite images. This uplift in Oregon may
allow the tracking of a volcanic eruption from its
beginning, long before the smoke and explosions begin.
This uplift is most likely caused by an upflow of molten
rock from more than four miles below the surface. Rock
melts within Earth’s interior and then moves upward in
cracks in Earth’s crust, where it forms large
underground pools called magma chambers. Magma
upwelling often produces signs that help scientists predict
eruptions and protect humans. When the pressure of
rising magma becomes forceful enough to crack bedrock,
swarms of small earthquakes occur. Rising magma
releases carbon dioxide and other gases that can be
detected at the surface.
81 Identify one of the minerals found in the andesite rock
of the Three Sisters volcanoes. [1]
Answer:
Answer:
78 State the evidence shown by the cross section that
supports the inference that the fault is younger than the
basalt intrusion. [1]
79 Below, list basalt, limestone, and breccia in the order
in which they were formed. [1]
82 The cross section below represents Earth’s interior
, on the
beneath the Three Sisters. Place a triangle,
cross section to indicate the location where the new
volcano will most likely form. [1]
83 On the same cross section, place arrows through each
point, X, Y, and Z, to indicate the relative motion of each
of these sections of the lithosphere. [1]
Formed first:
Formed second:
Formed last:
80 What is the largest silt particle that could be found in
the siltstone layer? [1]
Answer:
cm
June 2006 Page: 61
Earth Science August, 2006
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question,
choose the number of the word or expression that, of
those given, best completes the statement or answers the
question. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
1 A Foucault pendulum appears to change its direction of
swing over a period of several hours because of Earth’s
(1) rotation
(3) tilted axis
(2) revolution
(4) gravity
2 The same side of the Moon always faces Earth because
the
(1) Moon’s period of rotation is longer than its period
of revolution around Earth
(2) Moon’s period of rotation is shorter than its
period of revolution around Earth
(3) Moon rotates once as it completes one revolution
around Earth
(4) Moon does not rotate as it completes one
revolution around Earth
3 The diagram below shows the elliptical orbit of a planet
revolving around a star. The star and F 2 are the foci of
this ellipse. What is the approximate eccentricity of this
ellipse?
5 From which New York State location would Polaris be
observed to have an altitude closest to 43° above the
northern horizon?
(1) Binghamton
(3) Watertown
(2) Utica
(4) New York City
6 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.
7 Which surface soil type has the slowest permeability
rate and is most likely to produce flooding?
(1) pebbles
(3) silt
(2) sand
(4) clay
8 Which map best represents the surface wind pattern
around a Northern Hemisphere high-pressure center?
(1) 0.22
(2) 0.47
(3) 0.68
(4) 1.47
4 The diagrams below represent Earth’s ocean tides at
four different positions of the Moon. Which diagram
shows the Moon position that will produce the highest high
tides and the lowest low tides? (The diagrams are not
drawn to scale.)
August 2006 Page: 62
9 What is the relative humidity when the air temperature
is 29°C and the wet-bulb temperature is 23°C?
(1) 6%
(3) 54%
(2) 20%
(4) 60%
13 Which city is most likely experiencing winds of the
greatest velocity?
(1) New York City
(3) Poughkeepsie
(2) Binghamton
(4) Scranton
10 The diagram below represents an aneroid barometer
that shows the air pressure, in inches of mercury.
14 Surface winds are most likely blowing from
(1) Danbury toward New York City
(2) Poughkeepsie toward Scranton
(3) Binghamton toward Danbury
(4) Port Jervis toward Binghamton
When converted to millibars, this air pressure is equal to
(1) 1009.0 mb
(3) 1015.5 mb
(2) 1012.5 mb
(4) 1029.9 mb
11 Great volcanic eruptions send dust and ash into the
stratosphere. Weeks after such great eruptions, air
temperatures are often
(1) cooler than normal because the atmosphere is less
transparent
(2) cooler than normal because the atmosphere is
more transparent
(3) warmer than normal because the atmosphere is
less transparent
(4) warmer than normal because the atmosphere is
more transparent
15 Scientists have inferred the structure of Earth’s
interior mainly by analyzing
(1) the Moon’s interior
(2) the Moon’s composition
(3) Earth’s surface features
(4) Earth’s seismic data
16 Which process transfers energy primarily by
electromagnetic waves?
(1) radiation
(3) conduction
(2) evaporation
(4) convection
17 The cross section below shows the direction of
movement of an oceanic plate over a mantle hot spot,
resulting in the formation of a chain of volcanoes labeled
A, B, C, and D. The geologic age of volcano C is shown.
12 A P-wave takes 8 minutes and 20 seconds to travel
from the epicenter of an earthquake to a seismic station.
Approximately how long will an S-wave take to travel
from the epicenter of the same earthquake to this seismic
station?
(1) 6 min 40 sec
(3) 15 min 00 sec
(2) 9 min 40 sec
(4) 19 min 00 sec
Base your answers to questions 13 and 14 on the weather
map below, which shows a low-pressure system centered
near Poughkeepsie, New York. Isobars shown are
measured in millibars.
What are
D?
(1) B
old.
(2) B
old.
(3) B
old.
(4) B
old.
the most likely geologic ages of volcanoes B and
is 5 million years old and D is 12 million years
is 2 million years old and D is 6 million years
is 9 million years old and D is 9 million years
is 10 million years old and D is 4 million years
18 New York State landscape regions are identified and
classified primarily by their
(1) surface topography and bedrock structure
(2) existing vegetation and type of weather
(3) latitude and longitude
(4) chemical weathering rate and nearness to large
bodies of water
August 2006 Page: 63
19 A stream flowing at a velocity of 75 centimeters per
second can transport
(1) clay, only
(2) pebbles, only
(3) pebbles, sand, silt, and clay, only
(4) boulders, cobbles, pebbles, sand, silt, and clay
20 The cross sections below show a three-stage sequence
in the development of a glacial feature.
Which glacial feature has formed by the end of stage 3?
(1) kettle lake
(3) drumlin
(2) finger lake
(4) parallel scratches
21 Which diagram best shows the Sun’s apparent path, as
seen by an observer on July 21 in New York State?
Which agent of erosion most likely formed these barrier
islands?
(1) mass movement
(3) streams
(2) wave action
(4) glaciers
23 What will be the most probable arrangement of rock
particles deposited directly by a glacier?
(1) sorted and layered
(2) sorted and not layered
(3) unsorted and layered
(4) unsorted and not layered
24 Which two gases have been added to Earth’s
atmosphere in large amounts and are believed to have
increased global warming by absorbing infrared
radiation?
(1) neon and argon
(2) chlorine and nitrogen
(3) hydrogen and helium
(4) methane and carbon dioxide
25 The cross section below shows soil layer X, which
was formed from underlying bedrock.
22 The map below shows barrier islands in the ocean
along the coast of Texas.
Which change would most likely cause soil layer X to
increase in thickness?
(1) a decrease in slope
(2) a decrease in rainfall
(3) an increase in biologic activity
(4) an increase in air pressure
August 2006 Page: 64
26 The diagram below shows wind flowing over a
mountain range.
As the wind flows down the leeward side of the mountain
range, the air becomes
(1) cooler and drier
(3) warmer and drier
(2) cooler and wetter
(4) warmer and wetter
28 The ozone layer helps life on Earth because ozone
(1) modifies the normal El Niño weather pattern
(2) reflects insolation from the Sun
(3) absorbs damaging ultraviolet radiation from the
Sun
(4) deflects winds from a straight line to a curved
path
29 Under identical conditions, which surface will reflect
the greatest amount of insolation?
(1) a basaltic sand beach
(3) a glacial ice sheet
(2) a pine tree forest
(4) a blacktop parking lot
30 The diagram below shows Earth on a particular day in
its orbit around the Sun. The dashed line represents
Earth’s axis.
27 The cross section of a house is shown below. Open
stairways allow air to move from one floor to another.
The ridge vent is an opening in the roof that allows air to
move in or out of the attic.
Which date is represented by the diagram?
(1) March 21
(3) September 23
(2) June 21
(4) December 21
During a windless summer day, the air inside this house
is warmed by the Sun. In which cross section do the
arrows show the most likely air movement when the
windows are opened?
31 Fossils of trilobites, graptolites, and eurypterids are
found in the same bedrock layer in New York State.
During which geologic time interval could this bedrock
layer have formed?
(1) Late Ordovician to Early Devonian
(2) Late Silurian to Early Cretaceous
(3) Early Permian to Late Jurassic
(4) Early Cambrian to Middle Ordovician
32 Wavy bands of light and dark minerals visible in gneiss
bedrock probably formed from the
(1) cementing together of individual mineral grains
(2) cooling and crystallization of magma
(3) evaporation of an ancient ocean
(4) heat and pressure during metamorphism
August 2006 Page: 65
33 The table below shows the hardness of four common
materials.
Analysis of a basalt rock sample shows that 25% of its
radioactive K-40 remained undecayed. How old is the
basalt?
(1) 1.3 billion years
(3) 3.9 billion years
(2) 2.6 billion years
(4) 4.6 billion years
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Which statement best describes the hardness of the
mineral dolomite?
(1) Dolomite can scratch window glass, but cannot be
scratched by a fingernail.
(2) Dolomite can scratch window glass, but cannot be
scratched by a steel nail.
(3) Dolomite can scratch a copper penny, but cannot
be scratched by a fingernail.
(4) Dolomite can scratch a copper penny, but cannot
be scratched by a steel nail.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
choose number of the word or expression that, of those
given, best completes the statement or answers the
question. Some questions may require the use of the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 and 37 on the diagram
below, which shows the Moon, Earth, and the Sun’s rays
as viewed from space. Letter A indicates a certain
position of the Moon in its orbit.
34 The block diagram below of a portion of Earth’s crust
shows four zones labeled A, B, C, and D outlined with
dashed lines.
36 Which diagram correctly shows the direction of
Earth’s rotation and revolution?
In which zone is a younger rock unit on top of an older
rock unit?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
35 The graph below shows the rate of decay of the
radioactive isotope K-40 into the decay products Ar-40
and Ca-40.
August 2006 Page: 66
37 Which diagram represents the phase of the Moon, as
seen by an observer on Earth, when the Moon is located
at position A in its orbit?
Base your answers to questions 41 through 44 on the
topographic map below. Elevations are in feet. Points A
and B are locations on the map.
Base your answers to questions 38 through 40 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
A Newly Discovered Planet
Scientists studying a Sun-like star named Ogle-Tr-3
discovered a planet that is, on the average, 3.5 million
kilometers away from the star’s surface. The planet was
discovered as a result of observing a cyclic decrease in
the brightness of Ogle-Tr-3 every 28.5 hours. The
changing brightness is the result of the planet blocking
some of the starlight when it is between Ogle-Tr-3 and
Earth. This observation allowed scientists to find not only
the planet, but also to determine the planet’s mass and
density. The mass has been calculated to be
approximately 159 times the mass of Earth. The planet is
only 20% as dense as Jupiter. Scientists think that this
low density is the result of being very close to
Ogle-Tr-3.
38 Compared to the period of revolution of Mercury and
Venus, this newly discovered planet’s period of
revolution is
(1) shorter than both Mercury’s and Venus’
(2) longer than both Mercury’s and Venus’
(3) shorter than Mercury’s but longer than Venus’
(4) longer than Mercury’s but shorter than Venus’
41 Toward which direction does the Green River flow?
(1) northeast
(3) southeast
(2) northwest
(4) southwest
42 What is the gradient along the straight line between
points A and B?
(1) 10 ft/mi
(3) 25 ft/mi
(2) 20 ft/mi
(4) 35 ft/mi
43 Which graph best represents the profile along line AB?
39 The density of the discovered planet has been
estimated to be approximately
(1) 5.5 g/cm 3
(3) 1.3 g/cm 3
(2) 2.0 g/cm 3
(4) 0.3 g/cm 3
40 The planet was discovered when it passed between
Earth and the star Ogle-Tr-3. Which event in our solar
system results from a similar type of alignment of the
Moon between Earth and the Sun?
(1) summer solstice
(3) solar eclipse
(2) winter solstice
(4) lunar eclipse
August 2006 Page: 67
44 What evidence can be used to determine that the land
surface in the northeast corner of the map is relatively
flat?
(1) a rapidly flowing river
(2) a large region covered by water
(3) the dark contour line labeled 300
(4) the absence of many contour lines
47 Which cross section best shows the pattern of
sediments deposited by the stream as it enters the ocean
near point Z?
Base your answers to questions 45 through 47 on the
diagram below, which shows a coastal region in which the
land slopes toward the ocean. Point X is near the top of
the hill, point Y is at the base of the hill, and point Z is a
location at sea level. The same type of surface bedrock
underlies this entire region. A stream flows from point X
through point Y to point Z. This stream is not shown in the
diagram.
45 Which diagram best shows the most probable path of
the stream flowing from point X to point Z?
46 Compared to the stream velocity between point X and
point Y, the stream velocity between point Y and point Z
is most likely
(1) greater, since the slope of the land decreases
(2) greater, since the slope of the land increases
(3) less, since the slope of the land decreases
(4) less, since the slope of the land increases
August 2006 Page: 68
Base your answers to questions 48 through 50 on the
drawings of six sedimentary rocks labeled A through F.
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–64): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 through 53 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
48 Most of the rocks shown were formed by
(1) volcanic eruptions and crystallization
(2) compaction and/or cementation
(3) heat and pressure
(4) melting and/or solidification
49 Which two rocks are composed primarily of quartz,
feldspar, and clay minerals?
(1) rock salt and conglomerate
(2) rock salt and breccia
(3) sandstone and shale
(4) sandstone and limestone
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.
51 Identify the nuclear reaction referred to in this
passage that combines hydrogen gas to form helium and
produces most of the Sun’s energy. [1]
Answer:
52 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. [1]
50 Which table shows the rocks correctly classified by
texture?
53 Explain why a red giant star, similar to Aldebaran,
has a greater luminosity than the Sun. [1]
August 2006 Page: 69
Base your answers to questions 54 through 58 on the
geologic cross section below and on your knowledge of
Earth science. The cross section shows New York State
index fossils in rock layers that have not been
overturned. Rock unit A is an igneous intrusion and line
XY represents an unconformity.
58 Identify one piece of evidence shown in this cross
section that indicates that the igneous intrusion, A, is
older than the sandstone layer. [1]
Base your answers to questions 59 through 61 on the
cross section below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The cross section shows a portion of Earth’s
interior. Layer X is part of Earth’s interior.
54 Based on fossil evidence, determine the geologic
period during which the unconformity formed. [1]
Answer:
Period
55 Identify the coral index fossil that would most likely
be found in the same layer as the index fossil
Ctenocrinus. [1]
59 Identify the texture and relative density of the
granitic bedrock of the continental crust and the basaltic
bedrock of the oceanic crust. [2]
Answer:
Granitic Bedrock
56 Each index fossil existed for a relatively short
geologic time interval. State one other characteristic that
each fossil must have to be considered an index fossil. [1]
Texture:
Density:
Basaltic Bedrock
Texture:
Density:
57 Describe the type of depositional environment in which
the fossilized organisms lived. [1]
60 The minerals biotite and amphibole may be found in
igneous bedrock of both the oceanic crust and the
continental crust. Identify two other minerals commonly
found in the basaltic oceanic crust. [1]
&
61 Identify the part of Earth’s lithosphere represented by
layer X. [1]
Answer:
August 2006 Page: 70
Base your answers to questions 62 through 64 on the map
below, which shows the generalized surface bedrock for a
portion of New York State that appears in the Earth
Science Reference Tables.
66 The diagram below shows a model of the water cycle.
The arrows show the movement of water molecules
through the water cycle. The circled numbers represent
the processes that occur as the water molecules reach
the different stages of the water cycle.
Complete the table below by identifying the name of the
water cycle process occurring at each number. [2]
62 Place an X on the map to represent a location in the
Tug Hill Plateau landscape region. [1]
63 State the longitude of Mt. Marcy, New York, to the
nearest degree. The units and compass direction must be
included in your answer. [1]
Longitude:
64 Identify the geologic age and name of the surface
metamorphic bedrock found at Mt. Marcy. [1]
Geologic age:
Name of Bedrock:
Base your answers to questions 67 through 69 on the
cross section below, which shows the major surface
features of Earth along 25° S latitude between 75° W and
15° E longitude. Points A, B, and C represent locations on
Earth’s crust.
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (65–82): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
65 Part of which generalized New York State landscape
region is drained by the Susquehanna River and its
tributaries? [1]
67 Identify the crustal feature located at point A. [1]
Answer:
68 Identify the tectonic plate motion that is causing an
increase in the distance between South America and
Africa. [1]
Answer:
Answer:
August 2006 Page: 71
69 Bedrock samples were taken at the mid-ocean ridge
and points B and C. On the grid below, draw a line to show
the relative age of the bedrock samples between these
locations. [1]
ended its 1
1
2
hour rampage.
70 On the map below, draw the path of the tornado and
the direction the tornado moved, by following the
directions below. [2]
•
Place an X through the point for each of the six towns
mentioned in the passage.
•
Connect the Xs with a line in the order that each town
was mentioned in the passage.
•
Place an arrow at one end of your line to show the
direction of the tornado’s movement.
Base your answers to questions 70 through 74 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
The passage describes a tornado produced from a
thunderstorm that moved through a portion of New York
State on May 31, 1998.
New York Tornado
A small tornado formed and moved through the town
of Apalachin, New York, at 5:30 p.m., producing winds
between 40 and 72 miles per hour. The tops of trees
were snapped off, and many large limbs fell to the
ground. The path of the destruction measured up to 200
feet wide. At 5:45 p.m., the tornado next moved through
the town of Vestal where winds ranged between 73 and
112 miles per hour. Many people experienced personal
property damage as many homes were hit with flying
material.
At 6:10 p.m., the tornado moved close to
Binghamton, producing winds between 113 and 157 miles
per hour. A 1000-foot television tower was pushed over,
and many heavy objects were tossed about by the strong
winds. Then the tornado lifted off the ground for short
periods of time and bounced along toward the town of
Windsor. At 6:15 p.m., light damage was done to trees as
limbs fell and small shallow-rooted trees were pushed
over in Windsor.
The tornado increased in strength again at 6:20 p.m.
as it moved into Sanford. Some homes were damaged as
their roof shingles and siding were ripped off. One mobile
home was turned over on its side.
The tornado moved through the town of Deposit at
6:30 p.m., creating a path of destruction 200 yards wide.
The tornado skipped along hilltops, touching down
occasionally on the valley floors. However, much damage
was done to homes as the tornado’s winds reached their
maximum speeds of 158 to 206 miles per hour. The
tornado weakened and sporadically touched down after
leaving Deposit. By 7:00 p.m., the tornado had finally
71 The tornado mentioned in this passage was produced
by cold, dry air from Canada quickly advancing into
warm, moist air already in place over the northeastern
United States. List the two-letter air-mass symbols that
would identify each of the two air masses responsible for
producing this tornado. [1]
&
72 Which type of front was located at the boundary
between the advancing cold, dry air mass and the warm,
moist air mass? [1]
Answer:
front
August 2006 Page: 72
73 Using the Fujita Scale shown below and the
information in the passage, complete the table below, by
assigning an F-Scale number for the tornado as it passed
through each town given in the table. [1]
Base your answers to questions 75 through 79 on the map
and data tables below. The map shows the location of
Birdsville and Bundaberg in Australia. Data table 1 shows
the average monthly high temperatures for Birdsville.
Data table 2 includes the latitude and longitude, elevation
above sea level, and the average rainfall in January for
Birdsville and Bundaberg.
74 Calculate the tornado’s average rate of travel, in
miles per minute, between Vestal and Windsor, by using
the equation below. Express your answer to the nearest
tenth. [1]
tornado's rate of travel =
rate =
distance between vestal and Windsor ( miles)
time (minutes)
mi/min
August 2006 Page: 73
75 On the grid below, plot with an X the average monthly
high temperatures for Birdsville, Australia. Connect the
Xs with a line. The average monthly high temperatures
for Bundaberg have already been plotted on the graph for
you. [1]
79 On the map below, draw the 30° S latitude line. [1]
76 State one factor that could account for the difference
between the average high temperatures recorded in
December for Birdsville and Bundaberg. [1]
77 State one reason for the difference in the average
January rainfall for Birdsville and Bundaberg. [1]
78 Explain why Bundaberg will experience solar noon
before Birdsville each day. [1]
August 2006 Page: 74
Base your answers to questions 80 through 82 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.
80 Approximately how many million kilometers from the
Sun is the Asteroid Belt? [1]
Answer:
million km
81 State one probable reason why asteroid 1994 XL1 was
so close to Earth before being spotted by astronomers.
[1]
82 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?
[1]
Answer:
million yr
August 2006 Page: 75
Earth
Science January, 2007
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 Which object in our solar system has the greatest
density?
(1) Jupiter
(3) the Moon
(2) Earth
(4) the Sun
2 Which sequence of Moon phases could be observed from
Earth during a 2-week period?
In the demonstration, a student swings the weight hanging
in the pail and then spins the stool. The stool represents
(1) the revolving Earth
(3) the Coriolis effect
(2) the rotating Earth
(4) convection currents
5 If Earth’s axis were tilted less than 23.5°, which
seasonal average temperature change would occur in New
York State?
(1) Spring and fall would be cooler.
(2) Spring and fall would be warmer.
(3) Winter would be cooler.
(4) Summer would be cooler.
6 Which list shows stars in order of increasing
temperature?
(1) Barnard’s Star, Polaris, Sirius, Rigel
(2) Aldebaran, the Sun, Rigel, Procyon B
(3) Rigel, Polaris, Aldebaran, Barnard’s Star
(4) Procyon B, Alpha Centauri, Polaris, Betelgeuse
7 Which group of organisms is inferred to have existed
for the least amount of time in geologic history?
(1) trilobites
(3) eurypterids
(2) dinosaurs
(4) placoderm fish
8 Which weather variable can be determined by using a
psychrometer?
(1) barometric pressure
(3) relative humidity
(2) cloud cover
(4) wind speed
9 The cross section below shows sedimentary bedrock
layers A, B, C, and D exposed at Earth’s surface.
3 What is the main reason that the gravitational
attraction between Earth and the Moon changes each day?
(1) Earth’s axis is tilted at 23.5°.
(2) Earth’s rotational speed varies with the seasons.
(3) The Moon has an elliptical orbit.
(4) The Moon has a spherical shape.
4 The diagram below shows the equipment used to
demonstrate a Foucault pendulum.
Which layer appears to be the least resistant to
weathering?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
10 Which rock was organically formed and some-times
contains fossilized plant impressions?
(1) rock gypsum
(3) breccia
(2) phyllite
(4) coal
January 2007 Page: 76
11 The geologic cross section below shows an
unconformity in New York State bedrock layers that have
not been overturned. Index fossils found throughout some
rock layers are shown.
At which latitude were these apparent Sun paths most
likely observed?
(1) 0°
(3) 43° N
(2) 23.5° N
(4) 66.5° N
14 Which map best represents the surface wind pattern
associated with high-pressure and low-pressure systems
in the Northern Hemisphere?
Which New York State index fossil may have been present
in a rock layer that is missing due to the unconformity?
15 The models below represent the decay of radioactive
atoms to stable atoms after their first and second
half-lives.
12 Most scientists believe the Milky Way Galaxy is
(1) spherical in shape
(2) 4.6 billion years old
(3) composed of stars revolving around Earth
(4) one of billions of galaxies in the universe
Which model best represents the number of undecayed and
decayed atoms after three half-lives?
13 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.
January 2007 Page: 77
16 Which sediment size would allow water to flow
through at the fastest rate?
(1) clay
(3) sand
(2) silt
(4) pebbles
17 Large oceans moderate the climatic temperatures of
surrounding coastal land areas because the temperature
of ocean water changes
(1) rapidly, due to water’s low specific heat
(2) rapidly, due to water’s high specific heat
(3) slowly, due to water’s low specific heat
(4) slowly, due to water’s high specific heat
18 The mineral graphite is often used as
(1) a lubricant
(3) a source of iron
(2) an abrasive
(4) a cementing material
The streambank on the outside of this meander is steeper
than the streambank on the inside of this meander because
the water on the outside of this meander is moving
(1) slower, causing deposition
(2) faster, causing deposition
(3) slower, causing erosion
(4) faster, causing erosion
24 Which agent of erosion is mainly responsible for the
formation of the depressions occupied by both the kettle
lakes and finger lakes found in New York State?
(1) wind
(3) streams
(2) waves
(4) glaciers
25 The map below shows the boundary between two air
masses. The arrows show the direction in which the
boundary is moving.
19 In which Earth layer are most convection currents
that cause seafloor spreading thought to be located?
(1) crust
(3) outer core
(2) asthenosphere
(4) inner core
20 Which weather map symbol represents air masses
that normally form just south of the United States over
the Caribbean Sea?
(1) cP
(3) mP
(2) cT
(4) mT
Which weather map uses the correct weather front
symbol to illustrate this information?
21 An earthquake’s magnitude can be determined by
(1) analyzing the seismic waves recorded by a
seismograph
(2) calculating the depth of the earthquake faulting
(3) calculating the time the earthquake occurred
(4) comparing the speed of P-waves and S-waves
22 A seismic station is recording the seismic waves
produced by an earthquake that occurred 4200 kilometers
away. Approximately how long after the arrival of the
first P-wave will the first S-wave arrive?
(1) 1 min 05 sec
(3) 7 min 20 sec
(2) 5 min 50 sec
(4) 13 min 10 sec
23 The diagram below shows a section of a meander in a
stream. The arrows show the direction of stream flow.
26 If a low-pressure system follows a typical storm
track across New York State, it will move toward the
(1) southeast
(3) northeast
(2) southwest
(4) northwest
January 2007 Page: 78
27 The map below shows the average number of
thunderstorms during the year in the continental United
States.
30 Which graph best shows the inferred density of
Earth’s interior as depth increases from the upper mantle
to the lower mantle?
Which New York State landscape region normally
experiences the most thunderstorms?
(1) Allegheny Plateau
(3) Adirondack Mountains
(2) Taconic Mountains
(4) Champlain Lowlands
28 The arrows in the cross section below show the
prevailing winds moving across northern New York State
into Vermont during the summer.
31 The
plateau
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Compared to the climate of location A, the climate of
location B is
(1) warmer and wetter
(3) cooler and wetter
(2) warmer and drier
(4) cooler and drier
29 The cross section below shows a profile of a sediment
deposit.
Catskills landscape region is classified as a
primarily because the region has
V-shaped valleys
jagged hilltops
horizontal bedrock structure
folded metamorphic rock
32 London, England, is located at approximately 51° 30'
north latitude and 0° longitude. Elmira, New York, is
located at approximately 42° 10' north latitude and 76°
54' west longitude. What is one reason why London has a
warmer average winter temperature than Elmira?
(1) London is located closer to the equator.
(2) London is located at a higher elevation.
(3) London’s climate is modified by the North Atlantic
Ocean Current.
(4) London’s climate is modified by its longer
duration of insolation.
The pattern of sediment size shown indicates that these
sediments were most likely deposited within a
(1) landslide
(3) moraine
(2) drumlin
(4) delta
January 2007 Page: 79
33 In which diagram is the observer experiencing the
greatest intensity of insolation?
35 The map below shows a stream drainage pattern.
Arrows show the direction of stream flow.
On which landscape region did this drainage pattern most
likely develop?
34 The block diagram below shows a tectonic plate
boundary. Points A and B represent locations on Earth’s
surface.
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Which graph best shows the depths of most major
earthquakes whose epicenters lie between A and B?
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 on the
geologic cross section below in which overturning has not
occurred. Letters A through H represent rock layers.
36 Which sequence of events most likely caused the
unconformity shown at the bottom of rock layer B?
(1) folding —> uplift —> erosion —> deposition
(2) intrusion —> erosion —> folding —> uplift
(3) erosion —> folding —> deposition —> intrusion
(4) deposition —> uplift —> erosion —> folding
January 2007 Page: 80
37 The folding of rock layers G through C was most likely
caused by
(1) erosion of overlying sediments
(2) contact metamorphism
(3) the collision of lithospheric plates
(4) the extrusion of igneous rock
38 Which two letters represent bedrock of the same age?
(1) A and E
(3) F and G
(2) B and D
(4) Dand H
Base your answers to questions 39 and 40 on the two
graphs below, which show the relationship between the
amount of rainfall during a storm and the amount of
discharge into a nearby stream. Letter A represents the
time when approximately 50% of the precipitation from
the storm has fallen. Letter B represents the time when
peak runoff from the storm is flowing into the stream.
The delay is the difference in time between letters A and
B on the graph. Graph I shows data before urbanization in
an area. Graph II shows data after urbanization in the
same area.
40 How did urbanization affect delay time between points
A and B and the maximum stream discharge?
(1) The delay time decreased, and the maximum
discharge decreased.
(2) The delay time decreased, and the maximum
discharge increased.
(3) The delay time increased, and the maximum
discharge decreased.
(4) The delay time increased, and the maximum
discharge increased.
Base your answers to questions 41 through 43 on the map
below. The map shows some regions where metamorphic
bedrock of the Grenville Province in northeastern North
America is exposed at Earth’s surface.
41 The bedrock of the Grenville Province is generally
thought to have formed approximately
(1) 250 million years ago
(2) 400 million years ago
(3) 560 million years ago
(4) 1100 million years ago
39 The delay time between points A and B on both graphs
is due mainly to the time needed for
(1) groundwater to evaporate
(2) precipitation water to move into the streams
(3) green plants to absorb precipitation
(4) rainfall rate to decrease
42 Which New York State location has surface bedrock
that consists mainly of anorthositic rock?
(1) Old Forge
(3) Mt. Marcy
(2) Massena
(4) Utica
43 Which location
mostly of gneiss,
(1) 43° N 81°
(2) 46° N 78°
has surface bedrock that consists
schist, or marble?
W
(3) 47° N 69° W
W
(4) 49° N 71° W
January 2007 Page: 81
Base your answers to questions 44 through 46 on the map
represents Mt. Hekla, a volcano in Iceland.
below. The
The isolines represent the thickness of ash, in
centimeters, that settled on Earth’s surface after a
volcanic eruption of Mt. Hekla on March 29, 1947. Point
X is a location on the surface of the ash.
Base your answers to questions 47 and 48 on the
topographic maps and block diagrams of two landscape
regions shown below. The block diagrams show a
three-dimensional view of the topographic maps directly
above them. Elevations are measured in feet. Points A, B,
C, and D are locations on Earth’s surface.
47 Which contour interval is used on both topographic
maps?
(1) 10 ft
(3) 30 ft
(2) 20 ft
(4) 40 ft
48 A stream begins to flow downhill from point D toward
the depression. After a period of time, the depression
fills with water. Overflowing water from the depression
moves downhill toward point C. Which topographic map
shows the most likely resulting change in the contour
lines?
44 At the time of the eruption, the wind direction was
primarily from the
(1) east
(3) north
(2) west
(4) south
Base your answers to questions 49 and 50 on the cross
section below, which represents part of Earth’s water
cycle. Letters A, B, C, and D represent processes that
occur during the cycle. The level of the water table and
the extent of the zone of saturation are shown.
45 How many centimeters thick was the ash beneath point
X?
(1) 0
(3) 20
(2) 15
(4) 25
46 In addition to the ash, solid rock formed on Mt. Hekla
from the lava extruded during this eruption. This rock is
most likely
(1) light-colored metamorphic
(2) dark-colored metamorphic
(3) fine-grained igneous
(4) coarse-grained igneous
49 Which two letters represent processes in the water
cycle that usually cause a lowering of the water table?
(1) A and B
(3) B and D
(2) A and C
(4) C and D
January 2007 Page: 82
50 What are two water cycle processes not represented
by arrows in this cross section?
(1) transpiration and condensation
(2) evaporation and melting
(3) precipitation and freezing
(4) runoff and infiltration
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Base your answers to questions 52 and 53 on the cross
section below, which represents part of the Atlantic
Ocean seafloor. An earthquake occurred on November 18,
1929, triggering an underwater sediment flow. The
location of the epicenter is labeled. Letters A through D
indicate locations on the seafloor. Time, in hours, at each
lettered location represents the arrival of the sediment
flow after the earthquake.
Directions (51–63): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
52 Calculate the gradient of the ocean floor between
locations A and D and label your answer with the correct
units. [2]
51 The diagram below shows conditions that commonly
cause fog to form over land in coastal areas.
A weather station at the lighthouse records a
temperature of 36°F and an air pressure of 1016.4 mb.
Using the proper weather map symbols, place the
following information in the correct positions on the
weather station model below. [2]
• Present weather
• Dewpoint
• Air pressure
• Wind direction
• Wind speed
Answer: Gradient =
53 Explain why the velocity of the sediment flow created
by the earthquake decreased as the sediment moved from
location B to location C. [1]
Base your answers to questions 54 through 56 on the
data table below, which shows some characteristics of
four rock samples, numbered 1 through 4. Some
information has been left blank.
January 2007 Page: 83
54 State a possible grain size, in centimeters, for most
of the particles found in sample 1. [1]
Answer:
60 Explain why the angle of insolation at solar noon is
greater at point B than at point A. [1]
cm
55 Write the rock name of sample 2. [1]
Answer:
56 Write a term or phrase that correctly describes the
texture of sample 4. [1]
Base your answers to questions 61 through 63 on the
cross section below. The cross section shows a portion of
Earth’s crust. Letters A, B, C, and D represent rock units
that have not been overturned.
Base your answers to questions 57 through 60 on the
diagram below, 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.
61 On the above cross section, place an X where the
metamorphic rock quartzite may be found. [1]
62 Identify by name the most abundant mineral in rock
unit A. [1]
Answer:
63 State one piece of evidence shown in the cross section
that indicates that rock unit D is older than igneous
intrusion C. [1]
57 On the above diagram, draw a curved arrow, starting
at point B, showing the general direction that planetary
surface winds flow between 30° N and 60° N latitude. [1]
58 If it is 4:00 p.m. at point B, what is the time at point
A? [1]
Answer:
59 Identify one possible date that is represented by the
diagram. [1]
Answer:
January 2007 Page: 84
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
65 State the relationship at sunrise between the latitude
and the azimuth. [1]
Directions (64–82): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 64 and 65 on the data
table below, which shows the azimuths of sunrise and
sunset on August 2 observed at four different latitudes.
Azimuth is the compass direction measured, in degrees,
along the horizon, starting from north.
Base your answers to questions 66 through 69 on the
graph below, which shows two conditions responsible for
the formation and composition of some planets in our
solar system. The distances of Earth and Neptune from
the Sun, in astronomical units (AU), are shown beneath
the horizontal axis. (1 AU = 149.6 million kilometers).
The plotted line on this graph shows the relationship
between a planet’s distance from the Sun and the inferred
temperature at its formation. The regions within the
graph indicate the composition of planets formed within
these zones.
64 On the outer edge of the azimuth circle below, mark
with an X the positions of sunrise and sunset for each
latitude shown in the data table. Write the correct letter
code beside each X. The positions of sunrise and sunset
for 30° N have been plotted and labeled with letters A and
B. [2]
66 According to the graph, Neptune was mainly composed
of which material at the time of its formation? [1]
Answer:
67 Saturn is located 9.5 AU from the Sun. State the
approximate temperature at which Saturn formed. [1]
Answer:
K
68 State the relationship between a planet’s distance
from the Sun and the temperature at which that planet
formed. [1]
69 What is Jupiter’s distance from the Sun, in
astronomical units? Express your answer to the nearest
tenth. [1]
Answer:
AU
January 2007 Page: 85
Base your answers to questions 70 through 72 on the
diagram below, which shows the temperature change
when a parcel of air warms, rises, and expands to form a
cloud. Location A is at the base of the cloud.
Base your answers to questions 73 through 76 on the map
and block diagram below. The map shows the location of
North Island in New Zealand. The block diagram shows a
portion of North Island. The Hikurangi Trench is shown
forming at the edge of the Pacific Plate. Point X is at the
boundary between the lithosphere and the asthenosphere.
70 Explain why the warmer air rises. [1]
73 State the approximate temperature at point X. [1]
Answer:
71 Assume the cooling rate of the rising parcel of air is
constant. Determine the temperature of the air parcel at
the 3350-foot altitude. Express your answer to the
nearest tenth of a degree. [1]
Answer:
°F
°C
74 On what tectonic plate are both North Island and White
Island located? [1]
Plate
75 Describe the type of tectonic plate motion that formed
the Hikurangi Trench. [1]
72 State the relative humidity of the air at location A.
[1]
Answer:
%
76 Describe one action that people on North Island should
take if a tsunami warning is issued. [1]
January 2007 Page: 86
Base your answers to questions 77 through 79 on the
data table below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
The data table shows the average monthly discharge, in
cubic feet per second, for a stream in New York State.
77 On the grid below, plot with an X the average stream
discharge for each month shown in the data table. Connect
the Xs with a line. [1]
Base your answers to questions 80 through 82 on the
passage below and on your knowledge of Earth science.
Ozone in Earth’s Atmosphere
Ozone is a special form of oxygen. Unlike the oxygen
we breathe, which is composed of two atoms of oxygen,
ozone is composed of three atoms of oxygen. A
concentrated ozone layer between 10 and 30 miles above
Earth’s surface absorbs some of the harmful ultraviolet
radiation coming from the Sun. The amount of ultraviolet
light reaching Earth’s surface is directly related to the
angle of incoming solar radiation. The greater the Sun’s
angle of insolation, the greater the amount of ultraviolet
light that reaches Earth’s surface. If the ozone layer
were completely destroyed, the ultraviolet light reaching
Earth’s surface would most likely increase human health
problems, such as skin cancer and eye damage.
80 State the name of the temperature zone of Earth’s
atmosphere where the concentrated layer of ozone gas
exists. [1]
81 Explain how the concentrated ozone layer above
Earth’s surface is beneficial to humans. [1]
78 State the relationship between this stream’s
discharge and the amount of suspended sediment that can
be carried by this stream. [1]
79 Explain one possible reason why this stream’s
discharge in April is usually greater than this stream’s
discharge in January. [1]
82 Assuming clear atmospheric conditions, on what day
of the year do people in New York State most likely
receive the most ultraviolet radiation from the Sun? [1]
Answer:
January 2007 Page: 87
Earth Science June 2007
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 The best evidence that Earth spins on its axis is the
motion of
(1) tectonic plates
(3) a wind vane
(2) Polaris
(4) a Foucault pendulum
2 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
6 Which type of electromagnetic energy has the longest
wavelength?
(1) infrared radiation
(2) radio wave radiation
(3) ultraviolet radiation
(4) x-ray radiation
7 Under which atmospheric conditions will water most
likely evaporate at the fastest rate?
(1) hot, humid, and calm
(2) hot, dry, and windy
(3) cold, humid, and windy
(4) cold, dry, and calm
8 Which temperature zone of Earth’s atmosphere contains
the most water vapor?
(1) mesosphere
(3) thermosphere
(2) stratosphere
(4) troposphere
9 The diagram below shows the result of leaving an
empty, dry clay flowerpot in a full container of water for
a period of time. The water level in the container dropped
to level A. The top of the wet area moved to level B.
3 The arrows on the cross section below show the
prevailing wind that flows over a mountain. Points A and
B represent locations on opposite sides of the mountain.
Which statement correctly describes the differences in
the climates of locations A and B?
(1) Location A is warmer and drier than location B.
(2) Location A is cooler and wetter than location B.
(3) Location B is warmer and wetter than location A.
(4) Location B is cooler and drier than location A.
Level B is higher than level A because water
(1) is less dense than the clay pot
(2) is more dense than the clay pot
(3) traveled upward in the clay pot by capillary
action
(4) traveled downward in the clay pot by capillary
action
4 The average temperature at Earth’s equator is higher
than the average temperature at Earth’s South Pole
because the South Pole
(1) receives less intense insolation
(2) receives more infrared radiation
(3) has less land area
(4) has more cloud cover
10 Which weather condition most directly determines
wind speeds at Earth’s surface?
(1) visibility changes
(2) amount of cloud cover
(3) air-pressure gradient
(4) dewpoint differences
5 Which statement best summarizes the general effects
of ocean currents at 20° S latitude on coastal regions of
South America?
(1) The east coast and west coast are both warmed.
(2) The east coast and west coast are both cooled.
(3) The east coast is warmed and the west coast is
cooled.
(4) The east coast is cooled and the west coast is
warmed.
11 Which statement best explains why an increase in the
relative humidity of a parcel of air generally increases
the chance of precipitation?
(1) The dewpoint is farther from the condensation
point, causing rain.
(2) The air temperature is closer to the dewpoint,
making cloud formation more likely.
(3) The amount of moisture in the air is greater,
making the air heavier.
(4) The specific heat of the moist air is greater than
the drier air, releasing energy.
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 88
12 The two elements that make up the largest percentage
by mass of Earth’s crust are oxygen and
(1) silicon
(3) hydrogen
(2) potassium
(4) nitrogen
17 The photograph below shows a sand dune that formed
in a coastal area.
13 The weather instrument below can be used to
determine relative humidity.
This sand dune was most likely formed by
(1) water flowing from the left
(2) water flowing from the right
(3) wind blowing from the left
(4) wind blowing from the right
18 What is the origin of fine-grained igneous rock?
(1) lava that cooled slowly on Earth’s surface
(2) lava that cooled quickly on Earth’s surface
(3) silt that settled slowly in ocean water
(4) silt that settled quickly in ocean water
Based on the temperatures shown, the relative humidity
is
(1) 19%
(3) 33%
(2) 2%
(4) 40%
14 Which two minerals have cleavage planes at right
angles?
(1) biotite mica and muscovite mica
(2) sulfur and amphibole
(3) quartz and calcite
(4) halite and pyroxene
15 Which property would best distinguish sediment
deposited by a river from sediment deposited by a
glacier?
(1) mineral composition of the sediment
(2) amount of sediment sorting
(3) thickness of sediment layers
(4) age of fossils found in the sediment
19 Why does the oceanic crust sink beneath the
continental crust at a subduction boundary?
(1) The oceanic crust has a greater density.
(2) The oceanic crust is pulled downward by Earth’s
magnetic field.
(3) The continental crust has a more mafic
composition.
(4) The continental crust is pulled upward by the
Moon’s gravity.
20 Based on fossil evidence, most scientists infer that
(1) life has not changed significantly throughout
Earth’s history
(2) life has evolved from complex to simple forms
(3) many organisms that lived on Earth have become
extinct
(4) mammals developed early in the Precambrian
time period
21 The block diagram below shows a displacement of rock
layers.
16 Salt deposits are found in the surface bedrock near
which New York State location?
(1) Oswego
(3) Old Forge
(2) Syracuse
(4) Albany
Which process describes the downward sliding of the rock
material?
(1) tidal changes
(3) mass movement
(2) glacial erosion
(4) lava flow
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 89
22 The presence of which index fossil in the surface
bedrock most likely indicates that a forest environment
once existed in the region?
(1) Aneurophyton
(3) Centroceras
(2) Cystiphyllum
(4) Bothriolepis
27 Which graph best represents the average monthly
temperatures for one year at a location in the Southern
Hemisphere?
23 Which two types of rock are most commonly found as
outcrops in New York State’s Newark Lowlands landscape
region?
(1) rock salt and gypsum
(2) limestone and granite
(3) gneiss and quartzite
(4) conglomerate and sandstone
24 Which processes most likely formed the shale bedrock
found near Ithaca, New York?
(1) uplift and solidification
(2) burial and compaction
(3) heat and pressure
(4) melting and recrystallization
25 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.]
26 A student in New York State looked toward the
eastern horizon to observe sunrise at three different
times during the year. The student drew the following
diagram that shows the positions of sunrise, A, B, and C,
during this one-year period.
Which list correctly pairs the location of sunrise to the
time of the year?
(1) A—June 21, B—March 21, C—December 21
(2) A—December 21, B—March 21, C—June 21
(3) A—March 21, B—June 21, C—December 21
(4) A—June 21, B—December 21, C—March 21
28 The diagram below shows four surfaces of equal area
that absorb insolation.
Which letter represents the surface that most likely
absorbs the greatest amount of insolation?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
29 Which station model shows the correct form for
indicating a northwest wind at 25 knots and an air
pressure of 1023.7 mb?
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 90
30 The data table below shows the mass and volume of
three samples of the same mineral. [The density column
is provided for student use.]
32 In the United States, most of the major damage
expected from a future earthquake is predicted to occur
near a
(1) divergent plate boundary, only
(2) convergent plate boundary, only
(3) mid-ocean ridge and a divergent plate boundary
(4) transform plate boundary and a hot spot
Base your answers to questions 33 and 34 on the geologic
cross section below. Location A is within the
metamorphic rock.
Which graph best represents the relationship between the
density and the volume of these mineral samples?
Base your answers to questions 31 and 32 on the map
below, which shows the risk of damage from seismic
activity in the United States.
33 The metamorphic rock at location A is most likely
(1) marble
(3) phyllite
(2) quartzite
(4) slate
34 Which rock is the youngest?
(1) shal
(3) igneous rock
(2) sandstone
(4) rock at location A
35 Which pie graph best represents the percentage of
total time for the four major divisions of geologic time?
31 Which New York State location has the greatest risk of
earthquake damage?
(1) Binghamton
(3) Plattsburgh
(2) Buffalo
(4) Elmira
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 91
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question, write on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the statement or answers the question. Some questions may require the
use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 through 38 on the world map below. Letters A through D represent locations on
Earth’s surface.
36 At which location could an observer not see Polaris in
the night sky at any time during the year?
(1) A
(3) C
(2)
(4) D
38 At which location on December 21 is the Sun directly
overhead at solar noon?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
37 Which location receives 12 hours of daylight and 12
hours of darkness on June 21?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
Base your answers to questions 39 through 42 on the table below, which shows eight inferred stages describing the
formation of the universe from its beginning to the present time.
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 92
39 How soon did protons and neutrons form after the
beginning of the universe?
(3) 10–6 second
(1) 10–43 second
(4) 13.7 billion years
(2) 10–32 second
40 What is
(1) The
(2) The
(3) The
(4) The
the most appropriate title for this table?
Big Bang Theory
Theory of Plate Tectonics
Law of Superposition
Laws of Planetary Motion
Base your answers to questions 43 and 44 on the map
below, which shows Earth’s Southern Hemisphere and the
inferred tectonic movement of the continent of Australia
over geologic time. The arrows between the dots show
the relative movement of the center of the continent of
Australia. The parallels of latitude from 0° to 90° south
are labeled.
41 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
42 Between which two stages did our solar system form?
(1) 1 and 3
(3) 6 and 7
(2) 3 and 5
(4) 7 and 8
Base your answers to questions 45 through 47 on the map
below, which shows Earth’s planetary wind belts.
45 The curving of these planetary winds is the result of
(1) Earth’s rotation on its axis
(2) the unequal heating of Earth’s atmosphere
(3) the unequal heating of Earth’s surface
(4) Earth’s gravitational pull on the Moon
43 The geographic position of Australia on Earth’s
surface has been changing mainly because
(1) the gravitational force of the Moon has been
pulling on Earth’s landmasses
(2) heat energy has been creating convection
currents in Earth’s interior
(3) Earth’s rotation has spun Australia into different
locations
(4) the tilt of Earth’s axis has changed several times
46 Which wind belt has the greatest effect on the climate
of New York State?
(1) prevailing northwesterlies
(2) prevailing southwesterlies
(3) northeast trades
(4) southeast trades
47 Which climatic conditions exist where the trade winds
converge?
(1) cool and wet
(3) warm and wet
(2) cool and dry
(4) warm and dry
44 During which geologic time interval did Australia most
likely have a warm, tropical climate because of its
location?
(1) Cambrian
(3) Late Permian
(2) Carboniferous
(4) Eocene
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 93
Base your answers to questions 48 through 50 on the
diagram below, which shows a model used to investigate
the erosional-depositional system of a stream. The model
was tilted to create a gentle slope, and a hose supplied
water to form the meandering stream shown.
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–64): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 through 53 on the
weather map below. The weather map shows a
low-pressure system in New York State during July. The
L represents the center of the low-pressure system. Two
fronts extend from the center of the low. Line XY on the
map is a reference line.
48 Which diagram best represents where erosion, E, and
deposition, D, are most likely occurring along the curves
of the meandering stream?
51 The cross section below shows a side view of the area
along line XY on the map. On lines 1 and 2 in the cross
section, place the appropriate two-letter air-mass
symbols to identify the most likely type of air mass at
each of these locations. [1]
49 Which diagram best represents the arrangement of
large, L, and small, S, sediment deposited as the stream
enters the water basin?
52 The forecast for one city located on the map is given
below:
“In the next hour, skies will become cloud covered.
Heavy rains are expected with possible lightning and
thunder. Temperatures will become much cooler.”
State the name of the city for which this forecast was
given. [1]
50 How can the model be changed to increase the amount
of sediment transported by the stream?
(1) decrease the temperature of the sediment
(2) decrease the slope
(3) increase the size of the sediment
(4) increase the rate of the water flow
53 Identify one action that people should take to protect
themselves from lightning. [1]
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 94
Base your answers to questions 54 through 57 on the
diagrams below, which represent two bedrock outcrops, I
and II, found several kilometers apart in New York State.
Rock layers are lettered A through F. Drawings represent
specific index fossils.
54 During which geologic time period was rock layer C
deposited? [1]
Period
55 Identify two processes that produced the
unconformity in outcrop I. [1]
(1)
(2)
56 Describe one characteristic a fossil must have in
order to be considered a good index fossil. [1]
57 Explain why carbon-14 can not be used to find the
geologic age of these index fossils. [1]
Base your answers to questions 58 through 61 on the cross section and block diagram below. The cross section shows
an enlarged view of the stream shown in the block diagram. The sediments in the cross section are drawn to actual size.
Arrows show the movement of particles in the stream. The block diagram represents a region of Earth’s surface and
the bedrock beneath the region.
58 After measuring the actual size, identify the name of
the largest particle shown on the stream bottom in the
cross section. [1]
59 What process is responsible for producing the rounded
shape of the particles shown on the stream bottom in the
cross section? [1]
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 95
60 Identify the type of rock shown in the block diagram
that appears to be the most easily eroded. [1]
61 How does the shape of a valley eroded by a glacier
differ from the shape of the valley shown in the block
diagram? [1]
Base your answers to questions 62 through 64 on the
photograph of a sample of gneiss below.
65 On what July date listed in the table did the Moon
appear as shown below? [1]
July
62 What observable characteristic could be used to
identify this rock sample as gneiss? [1]
63 Identify two minerals found in gneiss that contain iron
and magnesium. [1]
66 What motion of the Moon causes the percentage of the
lighted side of the Moon visible from Earth to change from
July 1 to July 14? [1]
67 A full Moon phase was observed on July 14. On what
day in August was the next full Moon phase observed? [1]
August
and
64 A dark-red mineral with a glassy luster was also
observed in this gneiss sample. Identify the mineral and
state one possible use for this mineral. [1]
68 The diagram below shows the orbit of the Moon around
Earth. Place an X on the orbit to show where the Moon
was in its orbit on July 14, 2003. [1]
Mineral:
Use:
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (65–82): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 65 through 69 on the
data table below, which shows the percentage of the
lighted side of the Moon visible from Earth for the first
fourteen days of July 2003.
69 Why are the phases of the Moon considered to be
cyclic? [1]
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 96
Base your answers to questions 70 through 73 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.
70 What is the elevation of location A? [1]
m
72 On the above grid , construct
along line DE by plotting an X for
contour line that crosses line DE.
smooth, curved line to complete
a topographic profile
the elevation of each
Connect the X s with a
the profile. [2]
71 Calculate the gradient between points B and C and label
your answer with the correct units. [2]
Gradient =
73 Explain how the map indicates that Copper Creek flows
faster between points N and M than between points L and
K. [1]
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 97
Base your answers to questions 74 through 76 on the
example of a seismogram and set of instructions for
determining the Richter magnitude of an earthquake
below. The example shows the Richter magnitude of an
earthquake 210 kilometers from a seismic station.
74 Using the set of instructions on this page and the
seismogram and scales below, determine the Richter
magnitude of an earthquake that was located 500
kilometers from this seismic station. Record your answer
below. [1]
Magnitude:
Instructions for determining Richter magnitude:
• Determine the distance to the epicenter of the
earthquake. (The distance in the example is 210
kilometers.)
• Measure the maximum wave height of the S-wave
recorded on the seismogram. (The height in the example
is 23 millimeters.)
• Place a straightedge between the distance to the
epicenter (210 kilometers) and the height of the largest
S-wave (23 millimeters) on the appropriate scales. Draw
a line connecting these two points. The magnitude of the
earthquake is determined by where the line intersects the
Richter magnitude scale. (The magnitude of this example
is 5.0.)
75 Identify the information shown on the seismogram that
was used to determine that the distance to the epicenter
was 500 kilometers. [1]
76 How long did it take the first S-wave to travel 500
kilometers to reach this seismic station? [1]
minutes
seconds
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 98
Base your answers to questions 77 through 81 on the
passage and map below. The passage describes the Gakkel
Ridge found at the bottom of the Arctic Ocean. The map
shows the location of the Gakkel Ridge.
The Gakkel Ridge
In the summer of 2001, scientists aboard the U.S.
Coast Guard icebreaker Healy visited one of the least
explored places on Earth. The scientists studied the
1800-kilometer-long Gakkel Ridge at the bottom of the
Arctic Ocean near the North Pole. The Gakkel Ridge is a
section of the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge and extends from
the northern end of Greenland across the Arctic Ocean
floor toward Russia. At a depth of about 5 kilometers
below the ocean surface, the Gakkel Ridge is one of the
deepest mid-ocean ridges in the world. The ridge is
believed to extend down to Earth’s mantle, and the new
seafloor being formed at the ridge is most likely
composed of huge slabs of mantle rock. Bedrock samples
taken from the seafloor at the ridge were determined to
be the igneous rock peridotite.
The Gakkel Ridge is also the slowest moving
mid-ocean ridge. Some ridge systems, like the East
Pacific Ridge, are rifting at a rate of about 20
centimeters per year. The Gakkel Ridge is rifting at an
average rate of less than 1 centimeter per year. This
slow rate of movement means that there is less volcanic
activity along the Gakkel Ridge than along other ridge
systems. However, heat from the underground magma
slowly seeps up through cracks in the rocks of the ridge
at structures scientists call hydrothermal (hot water)
vents. During the 2001 cruise, a major hydrothermal
vent was discovered at 87° N latitude 45° E longitude.
78 Describe the relative motion of the two tectonic plates
on either side of the Gakkel Ridge. [1]
79 The Gakkel Ridge is a boundary between which two
tectonic plates? [1]
Plate and
Plate
80 Identify one feature, other than hydrothermal vents,
often found at mid-ocean ridges like the Gakkel Ridge that
indicates heat from Earth’s interior is escaping. [1]
81 State the two minerals that were most likely found in
the igneous bedrock samples collected at the Gakkel Ridge.
[1]
and
82 The diagram below shows a view of the ground from
directly above a flagpole in New York State at solar noon
on a particular day of the year. The flagpole’s shadow at
solar noon is shown. Draw the position and relative length
of the shadow that would be cast by this flagpole three
hours later. [2]
77 On the map below, place an X on the location of the
major hydrothermal vent described in the passage. [1]
Earth Science June 2007 Page: 99
Earth Science August 2007
Part A
Answer all questions in this part.
8 A weather instrument is shown below.
Directions (1–35): For each statement or question, write
on your separate answer sheet the number of the word or
expression that, of those given, best completes the
statement or answers the question. Some questions may
require the use of the Earth Science Reference Tables.
1 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
2 The Coriolis effect causes winds in New York State to
generally curve
(1) to the right of the direction of travel
(2) to the left of the direction of travel
(3) upward away from Earth’s surface
(4) downward toward Earth’s surface
3 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
Which weather variable is measured by this instrument?
(1) wind speed
(3) cloud cover
(2) precipitation
(4) air pressure
9 The diagram below represents the Sun’s rays striking
Earth and the Moon. Numbers 1 through 4 represent
positions of the Moon in its orbit around Earth.
4 Approximately how many degrees per day does Earth
revolve in its orbit around the Sun?
(1) 1°
(3) 15°
(2) 13°
(4) 23.5°
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
6 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
7 How
boiling
(1)
(2)
many calories are required to evaporate 1 gram of
water?
1
(3) 540
80
(4) 620
The highest tides on Earth occur when the Moon is in
positions
(1) 1 and 3
(3) 3 and 2
(2) 2 and 4
(4) 4 and 1
10 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
(3) infrared
(2) ultraviolet
(4) radio wave
11 In the United States, most tornadoes are classified as
intense
(1) low-pressure funnel clouds that spin clockwise
(2) low-pressure funnel clouds that spin
counter-clockwise
(3) high-pressure funnel clouds that spin clockwise
(4) high-pressure funnel clouds that spin
counterclockwise
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 100
12 Which type of air mass is associated with warm, dry
atmospheric conditions?
(1) cP
(3) mP
(2) cT
(4) mT
13 The approximate latitude of Utica, New York, is
(1) 43°05' N
(3) 75°15' E
(2) 43°05' S
(4) 75°15' W
14 Earth’s surface winds generally blow from regions of
higher
(1) air temperature toward regions of lower air
temperature
(2) air pressure toward regions of lower air
pressure
(3) latitudes toward regions of lower latitudes
(4) elevations toward regions of lower elevations
15 The diagram below shows how prevailing winds cause
different weather conditions on the windward and
leeward sides of a mountain range.
Clouds usually form on the windward sides of mountains
because this is where air
(1) rises and cool
(3) sinks and cools
(2) rises and warms
(4) sinks and warms
16 The diagrams below represent three containers, A, B,
and C, which were filled with equal volumes of uniformly
sorted plastic beads. Water was poured into each
container to determine porosity and infiltration time. (Not
drawn to scale)
17 Which ocean current brings warm water to the
western coast of Africa?
(1) Agulhas Current
(2) North Equatorial Current
(3) Canaries Current
(4) Guinea Current
18 The map below shows the large delta that formed as
the Mississippi River emptied into the Gulf of Mexico.
Which process was primarily responsible for the
formation of the delta?
(1) glacial erosion
(2) cementation of sediment
(3) deposition of sediment
(4) mass movement
19 The diagrams below show the crystal shapes of two
minerals.
Which data table best represents the porosity and
infiltration time of the beads in the three containers?
Quartz and halite have different crystal shapes primarily
because
(1) light reflects from crystal surfaces
(2) energy is released during crystallization
(3) of impurities that produce surface variations
(4) of the internal arrangement of the atoms
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 101
20 A student created the table below by classifying six
minerals into two groups, A and B, based on a single
property.
25 The map below shows the location of an earthquake
epicenter in New York State. Seismic stations A, B, and C
received the data used to locate the earthquake epicenter.
Which property was used to classify these minerals?
(1) color
(3) chemical composition
(2) luster
(4) hardness
21 Which igneous rock has a vesicular texture and
contains the minerals potassium feldspar and quartz?
(1) andesite
(3) pumice
(2) pegmatite
(4) scoria
22 Dolostone is classified as which type of rock?
(1) land-derived sedimentary rock
(2) chemically formed sedimentary rock
(3) foliated metamorphic rock
(4) nonfoliated metamorphic rock
23 A stream is transporting the particles W, X, Y, and Z,
shown below.
The seismogram recorded at station A would show the
(1) arrival of P-waves, only
(2) earliest arrival time of P-waves
(3) greatest difference in the arrival times of
P-waves and S-waves
(4) arrival of S-waves before the arrival of P-waves
26 An earthquake’s first P-wave arrives at a seismic
station at 12:00:00. This P-wave has traveled 6000
kilometers from the epicenter. At what time will the first
S-wave from the same earthquake arrive at the seismic
station?
(1) 11:52:20
(3) 12:09:20
(2) 12:07:40
(4) 12:17:00
Which particle will most likely settle to the bottom first
as the velocity of this stream decreases?
(1) W
(3) Y
(2) X
(4) Z
24 What is Earth’s inferred interior pressure, in millions
of atmospheres, at a depth of 3500 kilometers?
(1) 1.9
(3) 5500
(2) 2.8
(4) 6500
27 The movement of tectonic plates is inferred by many
scientists to be driven by
(1) tidal motions in the hydrosphere
(2) density differences in the troposphere
(3) convection currents in the asthenosphere
(4) solidification in the lithosphere
28 Which two tectonic plates are separated by a
mid-ocean ridge?
(1) Indian-Australian and Eurasian
(2) Indian-Australian and Pacific
(3) North American and South American
(4) North American and Eurasian
29 The presence of brachiopod, nautiloid, and coral
fossils in the surface bedrock of a certain area indicates
the area was once covered by
(1) tropical vegetation
(3) volcanic ash
(2) glacial deposits
(4) ocean water
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 102
30 New York State’s Catskills are classified as which
type of landscape region?
(1) mountain
(3) lowland
(2) plateau
(4) plain
35 Which diagram represents a landscape where
fine-grained igneous bedrock is most likely to be found?
31 What is the relative humidity if the dry-bulb temperat
ure i s 22°C and t he wet -bul b temperature is 17°C?
(1) 5%
(3) 60%
(2) 14%
(4) 68%
32 The time line below represents the entire geologic
history of Earth.
Part B–1
Answer all questions in this part.
Which letter best represents the first appearance of
humans on Earth?
(1) A
(3) C
(2) B
(4) D
33 Three extinct organisms are shown in the diagrams
below.
Directions (36–50): For each statement or question,
write on your separate answer sheet the number of the
word or expression that, of those given, best completes
the statement or answers the question. Some questions
may require the use of the Earth Science Reference
Tables.
Base your answers to questions 36 and 37 on the graph
below, which shows air temperature, dewpoint, and
present weather conditions for a 23-hour period at
Dallas, Texas.
Which other life-form reached its peak development
during the same period in geologic history that these
three life-forms first appeared on Earth?
(1) dinosaurs
(3) mastodonts
(2) stromatolites
(4) eurypterids
34 The graph below shows the radioactive decay of a
50-gram sample of a radioactive isotope.
36 The thunderstorm that occurred between 11 p.m. and
12 midnight was most likely the result of
(1) the arrival of a warm front
(2) the arrival of a cold front
(3) an increase in the difference between air
temperature and dewpoint
(4) an increase in both air temperature and dewpoint
According to the graph, what is the half-life of this
isotope?
(1) 100 years
(3) 200 years
(2) 150 years
(4) 300 years
37 Which weather condition was reported at Dallas when
the air temperature was equal to the dewpoint?
(1) fog
(3) thunderstorm
(2) rain
(4) drizzle
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 103
Base your answers to questions 38 and 39 on the isoline
map below, which shows the average yearly
precipitation, in inches, across New York State.
40 Which type of weathering is most common where the
average yearly temperature is 5°C and the average
yearly precipitation is 45 cm?
(1) moderate chemical weathering
(2) very slight weathering
(3) moderate chemical weathering with frost action
(4) slight frost action
41 The amount of chemical weathering will increase if
(1) air temperature decreases and precipitation
decreases
(2) air temperature decreases and precipitation
increases
(3) air temperature increases and precipitation
decreases
(4) air temperature increases and precipitation
increases
38 Which New York State landscape region receives the
greatest average yearly precipitation?
(1) Catskills
(3) Adirondack Mountains
(2) Tug Hill Plateau
(4) Taconic Mountains
Base your answers to questions 42 and 43 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.
39 Approximately how many inches of average yearly
precipitation does Rochester, New York, receive?
(1) 26
(3) 38
(2) 30
(4) 42
Base your answers to questions 40 and 41 on the graph
below, which shows the effect that average yearly
precipitation and temperature have on the type of
weathering that will occur in a particular region.
42 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
43 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
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 104
Base your answers to questions 44 through 46 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.
44 Which diagram shows the position of Earth relative to
the Sun’s rays on this day?
Base your answers to questions 47 through 50 on the
cross sections of three rock outcrops, A, B, and C. Line
XY represents a fault. Overturning has not occurred in
the rock outcrops.
47 The
marker
layer
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
volcanic ash layer is considered a good time
for correlating rocks because the volcanic ash
has a dark color
can be dated using carbon-14
lacks fossils
was rapidly deposited over a wide area
48 Which sedimentary rock shown in the outcrops is the
youngest?
(1) black shale
(3) tan siltstone
(2) conglomerate
(4) brown sandstone
49 What is the youngest geologic feature in the three
bottom layers of outcrop C?
(1) fault
(2) igneous intrusion
(3) unconformity
(4) zone of contact metamorphism
45 Approximately how many hours of daylight would
occur at position A on this day?
(1) 6
(3) 12
(2) 9
(4) 15
46 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
50 Which processes were primarily responsible for the
formation of most of the rock in outcrop A?
(1) melting and solidification
(2) heating and compression
(3) compaction and cementation
(4) weathering and erosion
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 105
Part B–2
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (51–64): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 51 through 53 on the
diagram below, which shows the inferred internal
structure of the four terrestrial planets, drawn to scale.
Base your answers to questions 54 through 56 on the
information on the four station models shown below. The
weather data were collected at Niagara Falls, Syracuse,
Utica, and New York City at the same time.
54 What was the air pressure in Niagara Falls? [1]
mb
55 Explain how the weather conditions shown on the
station models suggest that Utica had the greatest chance
of precipitation. [1]
51 How are the crusts of Mars, Mercury, Venus, and
Earth similar in composition? [1]
56 New York City was experiencing a wind blowing from
the south at 10 knots with hazy conditions limiting
visibility to 3/4 of a mile. On the station model for New
York City below, place, in the proper location and format,
the information below. [2]
•
wind direction
•
wind speed
•
present weather
•
visibility
52 Identify the two planets that would allow an S-wave
from a crustal quake to be transmitted through the core
to the opposite side of the planet. [1]
and
53 Explain why the densities of these terrestrial planets
are greater than the densities of the Jovian planets. [1]
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 106
Base your answers to questions 57 through 59 on the
graph below, which shows the average monthly
temperatures for a year for city X and city Y. Both cities
are located at the same latitude.
Base your answers to questions 60 through 62 on the
diagram below, which represents a part of the rock
cycle. The igneous rock, granite, and the characteristics
of sedimentary rock X and metamorphic rock Y are
shown.
57 What was the range in the average monthly
temperatures for city Y during the year? [1]
60 Identify sedimentary rock X. [1]
°C to
°C
61 Identify metamorphic rock Y. [1]
58 Explain why city X has a greater difference between
summer and winter temperatures than city Y. [1]
62 Complete the table below, with descriptions of the
observable characteristics used to identify granite. [1]
59 What evidence shown on the graph indicates that both
cities, X and Y, are located in the Northern Hemisphere?
[1]
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 107
Base your answers to questions 63 and 64 on the block
diagram below. The diagram shows the tectonic plate
boundary between Africa and North America 300 million
years ago, as these two continents united into a single
landmass. The arrows at letters A, B, C, and D represent
relative crustal movements. Letter X shows the eruption
of a volcano at that time. ( Not drawn to scale )
second focus of the asteroid’s orbit by placing an X on the
major axis at the proper location. [1]
66 Determine which was traveling faster, Halley’s Comet
or the asteroid, between the years 1903 and 1908. State
one reason for your choice. [1]
Traveling faster:
Reason:
63 Identify the type of tectonic plate motion represented
by the arrow shown at D. [1]
64 Identify the type of tectonic motion represented by
the arrows shown at A, B, and C. [1]
67 Explain why Halley’s Comet is considered to be part of
our solar system. [1]
Base your answers to questions 68 and 69 on the
barogram below, which shows air pressure recorded in
millibars at Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 2 through
April 4, 1982.
Part C
Answer all questions in this part.
Directions (65–82): Record your answers in the spaces
provided below. Some questions may require the use of
the Earth Science Reference Tables.
Base your answers to questions 65 through 67 on the
diagram below. 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.
68 Calculate the rate of change in air pressure from 10
a.m. to 8 p.m. on April 3. Label your answer with the
correct units. [2]
Rate of change =
69 What most likely caused the changes in air pressure
for the period of time shown on the graph? [1]
65 The eccentricity of the asteroid’s orbit is 0.250. On
the orbital diagram above, mark the position of the
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 108
Base your answers to questions 70 through 74 on the
passage and the cross section below. The passage
describes the geologic history of the Pine Bush region
near Albany, New York. The cross section shows the
bedrock and overlying sediment along a southwest to
northeast diagonal line through a portion of this area.
Location A shows an ancient buried stream channel and
location B shows a large sand dune.
The Pine Bush Region
The Pine Bush region, just northwest of Albany, New
York, is a 40-square mile area of sand dunes and
wetlands covered by pitch pine trees and scrub oak
bushes.
During the Ordovician Period, this area was covered
by a large sea. Layers of mud and sand deposited in this
sea were compressed into shale and sandstone bedrock.
During most of the Cenozoic Era, running water eroded
stream channels into the bedrock. One of these buried
channels is shown at location A in the cross section. Over
the last one million years of the Cenozoic Era, this area
was affected by glaciation. During the last major advance
of glacial ice, soil and bedrock were eroded and later
deposited as till (a mixture of boulders, pebbles, sand,
and clay) .
About 20,000 years ago, the last glacier in New York
State began to melt. The meltwater deposited pebbles and
sand, forming the stratified drift. During the 5000 years
it took to melt this glacier, the entire Pine Bush area
became submerged under a large 350-foot-deep glacial
lake called Lake Albany. Delta deposits of cobbles,
pebbles, and sand formed along the lake shorelines, and
beds of silt and clay were deposited farther into the lake.
Lake Albany drained about 12,000 years ago,
exposing the lake bottom. Wind erosion created the sand
dunes that cover much of the Pine Bush area today.
72 List, from oldest to youngest, the four types of
sediment shown above the bedrock in the cross section.
[1]
73 Explain why the till layer is composed of unsorted
sediment. [1]
74 How does the shape of the sand dune at location B
provide evidence that the prevailing winds that formed
this dune were blowing from the southwest? [1]
Base your answers to questions 75 through 77 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.
70 According to the passage, how old is the bedrock
shown in the cross section? [1]
million years
71 What evidence shown at location A suggests that the
channel in the bedrock was eroded by running water? [1]
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 109
75 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. [1]
Base your answers to questions 78 through 80 on the
field map below, which shows an area of a state park
where an underground gasoline tank leaked and
contaminated the groundwater. Groundwater-monitoring
wells were installed to determine the extent of the
contamination. The concentration of contaminants in parts
per million (ppm) in each of the wells is indicated on the
map.
78 On the field map below, draw the 50-ppm, 100-ppm,
and 150-ppm isolines. The 0-ppm isoline has been drawn
for you. [1]
76 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. [2]
79 State the relationship between the distance from the
gasoline tank and the concentration of contaminants in the
groundwater. [1]
77 On the same sky model diagram above, place an
asterisk (* ) at the apparent position of the North Star as
seen from Buffalo. [1]
80 Park officials do not want to see another incident of
groundwater contamination from gasoline tanks. State one
action that park officials could take to prevent gasoline
from contaminating the groundwater in the future. [1]
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 110
Base your answers to questions 81 and 82 on the
hardness of the minerals talc, quartz, halite, sulfur, and
fluorite.
81 On the grid below, construct a bar graph to represent
the hardness of these minerals. [1]
82 Which mineral shown on the grid would be the best
abrasive? State one reason for your choice. [1]
Mineral:
Reason:
Earth Science August 2007 Page: 111
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