Christian S.

Burham STEM 11-A

TEST YOURSELF (pages 21-23).

A.

1. D
2. C
3. D
4. B
5. B

B. Compare and contrast

1. Geocentric and Heliocentric

Geocentric describes the earth is the center of the universe while Heliocentric believes that the sun is in
the center of the universe.

2. Nebular hypothesis and protoplanet hypothesis

Nebular hypothesis believes that gases forms planet when they compress, while protoplanet hypothesis
is a dense interstellar cloud produces a cluster of stars.

3. Atmosphere and Hydrosphere

Atmosphere is a mixture of gases that surrounds the Earth, while Hydrosphere includes water that is on
the surface of the planet, underground, and in the air.

4. Electromagnetic force and strong nuclear force

Electromagnetic force is a type of physical interaction that occurs between electrically charged particles,
while strong nuclear force is a fundamental interaction that confines quarks into protons, neutrons, and
other hadron particles.

5.Formation of the universe and formation of the solar system

The formation of the universe began about 13.7 billion years ago, while the formation of the solar
system began about 4.5 billion years ago from a dense cloud of interstellar gas and dust.

C.

1. Why is the big bang theory most accepted theory on the origin of the universe?

The Big Bang Theory is the most accepted theory on the origin of the universe because it is supported by
strong observational evidence, explains the expansion of the universe, accounts for the abundance of
light elements, and has made successful predictions. It also aligns with Einstein's theory of general
relativity and provides a coherent framework for understanding the universe's evolution.
2. How did Earth form after the formation of the sun?

After the formation of the Sun, Earth formed from a disk of gas and dust called the solar nebula. Small
particles clumped together to create planetesimals, which then grew into protoplanets. Over time, one
of these protoplanets became Earth, with its distinct layers. Earth cooled, and its surface solidified,
leading to the development of oceans and continents. This process created the Earth as we know it
today, part of the formation of our solar system.

3. How does Earth perform its simultaneous motions?

Earth performs its simultaneous motions due to its rotation on its axis, which causes day and night, and
its orbit around the Sun, resulting in seasons and a year. The axial tilt creates the changing angle of
sunlight. Additionally, Earth experiences precession and nutation, which are slower and smaller periodic
movements. These motions are influenced by gravity and classical mechanics.

4. How are Earth subsystem interrelated?

Earth's subsystems are interconnected in various ways. For example, the atmosphere and hydrosphere
interact through weather and climate patterns. The geosphere and hydrosphere shape landscapes
through erosion and sedimentation. Life in the biosphere impacts the atmosphere by influencing gases
like oxygen and carbon dioxide. These interactions create a dynamic Earth system where changes in one
subsystem can affect others, highlighting the importance of environmental understanding and
sustainability.

5.Explain that the origin of the origin of the universe precedes the origin of life

The origin of the universe happened before the origin of life. The universe began about 13.8 billion years
ago, while life on Earth emerged around 3.5 to 4 billion years ago. Life's origin is a subsequent event
within the cosmic timeline.

6. How did everything as we know it today, come into being?

Everything we know today came into being through the following key processes.
First the universe began with the Big Bang, then Earth formed, Life emerged on Earth, Life
evolved, and human civilization.

7.What made it possible for the planets to become as big as they are?

Planets become as big as they are through a process of gradual accumulation of material from the
protoplanetary disk around a young star. Objects in the disk collide, stick together, and grow larger due
to mutual gravitational attraction. The clearing of orbits by dominant objects and the formation of
planetesimals are key steps in building planets. In some cases, planets capture surrounding gas, further
increasing their size. These processes are governed by the laws of physics and depend on the conditions
and materials available in their regions of the protoplanetary disk.

8.What are the unique characteristics of Earth that allow the existence of life?

Earth's unique characteristics for supporting life include an abundance of liquid water, a stable climate, a
breathable atmosphere with oxygen, a protective magnetosphere, plate tectonics, an ozone layer,
biodiversity, a stable core, carbon-based chemistry, and a rich array of essential elements. These factors
create a hospitable environment for life as we know it.

9. How do Earth’s subsystems affect each other?

Earth's subsystems, including the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, influence each
other in various ways. For example, the atmosphere affects weather, while the geosphere shapes
landscapes. These interactions are crucial for understanding and managing our environment.