Earth and Space Unit Test Study Guide

Flashcards created based on the unit test study guide covering topics in Earth and Space, including the life cycle of stars, galaxies, weather and climate, and the carbon cycle.

What begins a star's life cycle?

Stars begin as clouds of gas and dust called nebulae (protostar).

What determines the life cycle of a star?

MASS determines the life cycle of a star.

In which stage is Earth's Sun currently?

Earth's Sun is in the main sequence stage of its life.

What do scientists use to classify stars?

Scientists use temperature and luminosity of stars to classify them.

Why does our Sun appear brighter than other stars?

Our Sun appears brighter because it is closer to us compared to all other stars.

What does the Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram (H-R Diagram) compare?

It compares the relationship between temperature and luminosity of a star.

What is a galaxy?

Galaxies are a huge collection of stars, dust, and gas held together by gravity.

What type of galaxy is the Milky Way?

The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy.

Where is our Sun located in the Milky Way galaxy?

Our Sun is located on a spiral arm of the Milky Way galaxy.

What are the three main types of galaxies?

Elliptical, Irregular, and Spiral.

What defines weather?

Weather refers to day-to-day atmospheric conditions.

What defines climate?

Climate refers to the broader long-term atmospheric conditions.

What is the driving force behind our weather systems?

Solar Energy is the driving force behind our weather systems and climate patterns.

How does solar energy affect Earth?

The Sun does not warm our Earth evenly, influencing weather and climate.

What is the hydrosphere?

The hydrosphere consists of all water above, on, and below Earth.

What role does the Sun play in the water cycle?

The Sun evaps water from the oceans, which leads to condensation and precipitation.

What is the atmosphere?

The atmosphere is the layer of protection surrounding the Earth that circulates air, redistributes heat and moisture.

What causes global winds?

Global winds happen because the Sun heats the Earth unevenly and the Earth spins.

What is the Coriolis Effect?

The Coriolis Effect is caused by the Earth's rotation; it causes wind to curve from poles to equator.

What is the carbon cycle?

The carbon cycle is important for maintaining healthy ecosystems, balancing energy flow and cycling of matter.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process where plants use carbon dioxide to make food (glucose) and release oxygen.

What happens to carbon in decomposition?

In decomposition, microorganisms break down remains of living organisms, releasing carbon back into the soil and air.

What are fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels are formed from dead plants and animals, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.

What are greenhouse gases?

Greenhouse gases help keep the Earth's temperature stable by trapping heat.

What are Newton's three laws of motion?

Newton's 1st Law: Balanced/Unbalanced Forces; Newton's 2nd Law; Newton's 3rd Law: Action-Reaction.