praxis elementary science 5005 practice test

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

Which of the following is always true of a chemical change?
  • A. Color, shape, or texture is altered.
  • B. Mass is increased.
  • C. A new substance is formed.
  • D. Gas or vapor is generated.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

A chemical change always results in the formation of a new substance, which is a fundamental characteristic distinguishing it from physical changes. Option A is incorrect because while color, shape, or texture may change, these alterations do not confirm a chemical change unless a new substance is produced. Option B is misleading; mass is conserved in chemical reactions, so it does not necessarily increase. Option D, while often true (as gases can be produced), is not universally applicable; some reactions do not produce gas. Hence, the formation of a new substance is the definitive indicator of a chemical change.

Other Related Questions

Of the following, which has Earth completed when it makes one revolution around the Sun?
  • A. One Earth year
  • B. One Earth day
  • C. One light year
  • D. One lunar month
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

When Earth completes one revolution around the Sun, it takes approximately 365.25 days, which defines one Earth year. Option B, one Earth day, represents the time it takes for Earth to rotate on its axis, not its orbit around the Sun. Option C, one light year, is a measure of distance that light travels in one year, not a measure of time related to Earth's orbit. Option D, one lunar month, refers to the time it takes for the Moon to orbit Earth, which is about 29.5 days, and is unrelated to Earth's revolution around the Sun.
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.
The rotation of Earth around its axis is responsible for which of the following?
  • A. The force of gravity
  • B. The day and night cycle
  • C. The temperature differences between seasons
  • D. The movement of continents relative to one another
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The rotation of Earth around its axis creates the day and night cycle, as different parts of the planet face the Sun and then move into its shadow. This explains why we experience daytime and nighttime in a 24-hour period. Option A is incorrect; gravity is primarily caused by Earth's mass, not its rotation. Option C is also wrong; temperature differences between seasons are due to Earth's tilt and its orbit around the Sun, not its rotation. Lastly, option D misrepresents the concept; the movement of continents is influenced by tectonic activity, not the rotation of Earth.
Which TWO of the following are true statements about hurricanes?
  • A. They are typically over 160 kilometers, or 100 miles, in diameter.
  • B. They form over cold water in Earth's polar regions and move slowly.
  • C. They develop quickly and usually last for less than 30 minutes.
  • D. They can have sustained wind speeds that are over 200 kilometers per hour.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A, D

Hurricanes are vast systems, often exceeding 160 kilometers (100 miles) in diameter, making option A true. Additionally, they can reach sustained wind speeds over 200 kilometers per hour, confirming option D. In contrast, option B is incorrect as hurricanes form over warm waters, typically in tropical regions, not cold polar waters. Moreover, they do not move slowly; they can travel at significant speeds. Option C is also false; while hurricanes can develop rapidly, they generally last for several days, not just 30 minutes. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for recognizing the nature and impact of hurricanes.