praxis elementary science 5005 practice test

A series of tests developed by ETS to assess the skills and knowledge of prospective teachers.

On the periodic table, elements in the same row are characterized by:
  • A. an increasing number of neutrons from left to right.
  • B. a decreasing number of neutrons from left to right.
  • C. an increasing number of protons from left to right.
  • D. a decreasing number of protons from left to right.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Elements in the same row, or period, of the periodic table are arranged by increasing atomic number, which corresponds to the number of protons. Therefore, as you move from left to right across a row, the number of protons increases. Option A is incorrect because the number of neutrons does not consistently increase across a row; it varies based on the specific isotopes of each element. Option B is also incorrect for the same reason, as neutrons can vary independently of proton count. Option D is incorrect since it suggests a decrease in protons, which contradicts the fundamental organization of the periodic table.

Other Related Questions

Which THREE of the following are considered sources of freshwater?
  • A. Rivers
  • B. Aquifers
  • C. Oceans
  • D. Glaciers
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A,B,D

Rivers, aquifers, and glaciers are all significant sources of freshwater. Rivers provide accessible water for ecosystems and human use, while aquifers store water underground, making it available for wells and springs. Glaciers, as large ice formations, hold substantial freshwater reserves that can feed rivers and lakes as they melt. In contrast, oceans are primarily saline and not suitable for direct human consumption or most agricultural uses. Therefore, they do not qualify as sources of freshwater, making options A, B, and D the correct choices.
Which of the following is true about the nucleus of an atom?
  • A. The nucleus has a negative charge.
  • B. The nucleus is neutral with no charge.
  • C. The electrons and protons are located in the nucleus.
  • D. The neutrons and protons are located in the nucleus.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The nucleus of an atom is composed of protons and neutrons, making option D accurate. Protons carry a positive charge, while neutrons are neutral, contributing to the overall positive charge of the nucleus. Option A is incorrect because the nucleus does not have a negative charge; it is positively charged due to protons. Option B is also wrong, as the nucleus is not neutral; it has a positive charge from the protons. Lastly, option C is misleading because electrons are located outside the nucleus in electron shells, not within it.
Which of the following best describes a comet?
  • A. A small planet orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter.
  • B. A chunk composed primarily of metal that enters Earth's atmosphere.
  • C. A chunk composed primarily of rock, ice, and dust orbiting the Sun in an elliptical path.
  • D. A dark region that appears periodically on the surface of the Sun.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C accurately describes a comet as a chunk composed primarily of rock, ice, and dust that orbits the Sun in an elliptical path. This definition captures the essential components and behavior of comets. Option A incorrectly defines a comet as a small planet, which is misleading; comets are distinct from asteroids and do not have the same characteristics. Option B describes a meteoroid, which is a metallic chunk entering Earth's atmosphere, not a comet. Option D refers to sunspots, which are dark regions on the Sun's surface, unrelated to comets. Each incorrect option misrepresents the nature of comets, highlighting the unique characteristics of these celestial bodies.
Which of the following best explains why an ice skater is able to coast on ice for a long distance without pushing off in a straight line across the ice?
  • A. The force of friction on the blades of the skates is greater than the force of friction on the ice.
  • B. The force of friction on the blades of the skates is less than the force of friction on the ice.
  • C. The ice exerts a constant forward force on the skater.
  • D. The buoyant force on the blades of the skates is greater than the weight of the skater.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

An ice skater can glide smoothly due to the minimal friction between the skate blades and the ice, which is significantly lower than the friction experienced on other surfaces. This reduced friction allows the skater to maintain momentum over longer distances without needing to push off. Option A is incorrect because it suggests greater friction on the blades, which would hinder movement. Option C is misleading, as the ice does not exert a forward force; instead, the skater continues moving due to existing momentum. Option D is also wrong; while buoyancy affects weight in water, it does not apply to ice skating, where weight and friction are the primary factors.