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 are necessary for a generator to produce electricity?
  • A. Magnets and conducting wire
  • B. Natural gas and pistons
  • C. Steam and steam pipes
  • D. Moving water and a water turbine
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

To generate electricity, a generator requires magnets and conducting wire (Option A). This combination is fundamental to electromagnetic induction, where a magnetic field moving relative to a conductor induces an electric current. Option B, involving natural gas and pistons, pertains to internal combustion engines rather than electrical generation directly. Option C, while steam and pipes are crucial in steam turbines, they do not represent the core principle of electricity generation. Option D focuses on hydropower, which, although effective, still relies on the basic principle of magnets and wire for electricity production. Thus, only Option A accurately describes the essential components for generating electricity.

Other Related Questions

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.
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 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 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.