Earth Day 2024 Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What was a significant outcome of the Earth Day movement initiated in 1970?

It contributed to the enactment of the Clean Water Act of 1972. (correct)

It resulted in over 20 million people becoming aware of environmental issues.

It prompted the organization of annual Earth Month events.

It led to the establishment of the Earth Day Network.

Which of the following is NOT one of the four methods outlined by EDN to reduce plastic production?

Persuading countries to phase out single-use plastics by 2030.

Encouraging investment in recycling technologies. (correct)

Raising public awareness of plastic pollution.

Implementing policies to end fast fashion.

What is the main theme for Earth Day 2024?

Recycling and Renewable Resources

Planet vs. Plastics (correct)

Sustainable Energy Solutions

Cleaner Oceans and Wildlife Preservation

What alarming statistic is associated with plastic production mentioned in the content?

380 million tons of plastic is produced annually. Signup and view all the answers

What has Kathleen Rogers indicated regarding the health risks associated with plastics?

Microplastics can have unknown toxic effects on health. Signup and view all the answers

Which organization has more than 50,000 partners globally?

Earth Day Network (EDN) Signup and view all the answers

What minor actions can companies take to reduce their plastic footprint?

Choose natural or recycled fabrics for clothing. Signup and view all the answers

What type of policies does EDN urge governments to implement to address plastic pollution?

Policies to end fast fashion. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect did Brauer’s journey during the Global Solo Challenge primarily highlight?

The extreme difficulty and hazards of the route Signup and view all the answers

What injuries did Brauer sustain during the race?

Severe dehydration and a rib injury Signup and view all the answers

What type of star system is responsible for the occurrence of a nova?

Binary star system with a red giant and white dwarf Signup and view all the answers

How do chimpanzees evaluate the risk of conflict according to Dr. Lemoine's research?

By climbing to higher ground to observe rival movements Signup and view all the answers

What does the discovery of the Revolutionary War sketch signify about Judith Hernstadt's collection?

The significance of the sketch was recognized years after its acquisition Signup and view all the answers

How often does T Coronae Borealis experience nova outbursts?

Approximately once every 80 years Signup and view all the answers

What event is predicted to be observable with the unaided eye during its occurrence?

Nova outburst Signup and view all the answers

In what capacity did Brauer's team assist her during the Global Solo Challenge?

Guiding her via satellite communication Signup and view all the answers

What primarily caused the low fatality rate in the recent Taiwan earthquake?

Advanced earthquake preparedness measures Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe the three notable capes that sailors must navigate during the Global Solo Challenge?

The Great Capes Signup and view all the answers

What strategic behavior is unique to chimpanzees, according to the research findings?

Patrolling territorial borders Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is NOT mentioned as part of Taiwan's earthquake preparedness?

Frequent volcanic eruptions Signup and view all the answers

What was Brauer's original career intention before pursuing professional sailing?

To become a doctor Signup and view all the answers

What is the notable distance of T Coronae Borealis from Earth?

3,000 light-years Signup and view all the answers

What environmental conditions create hazards for sailors around Cape Horn?

Strong westerly winds and massive waves Signup and view all the answers

What did the earthquake that struck Taiwan on April 3, 2024, measure in magnitude?

7.4 magnitude Signup and view all the answers

What was the height of the waves that posed a risk to Brauer's vessel during her journey?

30 feet (9 meters) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the accumulation of material on the white dwarf in a nova event?

The shedding of outer layers from the red giant Signup and view all the answers

What was notable about the soldiers depicted in Hernstadt's sketch?

One wore a shirt characteristic of the Continental Army Signup and view all the answers

Which phenomenon was expected to occur before September 2024?

The T Coronae Borealis nova outburst Signup and view all the answers

What inspired Brauer to pursue a career in professional sailing?

Her exposure to sailing during college in Hawaii Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate length of time Cole Brauer took to sail around the world alone?

130 days Signup and view all the answers

In what year did the last recorded nova outburst of T Coronae Borealis occur?

1946 Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of her sailing experience does Brauer hope to influence for future generations?

Breaking gender barriers in professional sailing Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic makes the T Coronae Borealis outburst particularly noteworthy?

Its brightness compared to other stars Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason the Nova outburst can be seen from the unaided eye?

The brightness of the explosion Signup and view all the answers

Which tectonic feature is primarily associated with the occurrence of earthquakes in Taiwan?

Ring of Fire Signup and view all the answers

What role did the female followers of the Continental Army play, as highlighted in the artwork?

Cooking and performing household chores Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of Skic's investigation into the sketch?

It resulted in a donation to a major historical society. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the crab spiders is accurate?

Both male and female crab spiders can be predators. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the ichthyosaur fossils discovered by Justin and Ruby Reynolds?

They are the largest known marine species to exist. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'cooperation mimicry' refer to in the context of the crab spiders?

A behavior where spiders work together to enhance camouflage. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge did Skic face while deciphering the sketch?

Decoding blurry text that was incomplete. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary activity undertaken by Justin and Ruby Reynolds during their fossil hunting?

Searching for marine reptile fossils Signup and view all the answers

Why is it misleading to state that male crab spiders camouflage themselves like females?

It is uncommon for males to mimic flowers successfully. Signup and view all the answers

What does the naming 'Ichthyotitan severnensis' imply about the newly discovered ichthyosaur?

Its size and habitat tie it to the historical Severn area. Signup and view all the answers

What crucial detail did the sketch provide about the Continental Army?

It showcased the day-to-day lives of soldiers. Signup and view all the answers

How did Wu and Gao first become aware of the camouflage of the crab spiders?

They observed the spiders while researching mosquitoes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common assumption about historical accounts of military conflicts mentioned?

They ignore the role of female supporters. Signup and view all the answers

What key feature distinguishes the ichthyosaur as discovered by the Reynolds?

It is believed to be a new species due to its size. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?

To synchronize with the life cycles of predators Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Brood XIX from Brood XIII?

Brood XIX comprises more species than Brood XIII Signup and view all the answers

How do cicadas typically affect young trees during their emergence?

They can cause wilting by severing food supplies Signup and view all the answers

What unique characteristic does breakdancing bring to the Paris 2024 Olympics?

It is the first time urban dance is included Signup and view all the answers

What will judges consider when scoring surfers at the Paris 2024 Olympics?

The performance's complexity and execution Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following sports will NOT be included in the Paris 2024 Olympics?

Basketball Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected peak period for cicada numbers in 2024?

A two-to-three-week period starting mid-May Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of sport climbing will NOT be part of the Paris 2024 events?

Rope climbing Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate height of walls used in bouldering during the Olympics?

14.7 feet Signup and view all the answers

How long do cicada eggs take to hatch:

4-6 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What sound level can male cicadas reach while attracting females?

90 decibels Signup and view all the answers

What role do dead cicadas play in the ecosystem after their life cycle?

They become a food source for certain mammals Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about the emergence of Brood XIII and Brood XIX?

They will overlap only in Illinois and Iowa this year Signup and view all the answers

What factor increases the difficulty in predicting when cicadas will emerge?

Their secret internal timing mechanism Signup and view all the answers

What primarily fuels zombie fires?

Peat and organic matter Signup and view all the answers

In which regions aside from Canada are zombie fires known to occur?

Alaska and Northern Europe Signup and view all the answers

Why are zombie fires particularly challenging for firefighters to detect?

Underground fires are mainly flameless. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor has contributed to the increase in zombie fires in Canada?

Three-year drought Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of the X-59 aircraft designed by NASA?

It generates no sonic boom during flight. Signup and view all the answers

What issue arose when the snow started to melt in areas affected by the wildfires?

Zombie fires began to reignite. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of rising sea levels by 2050?

Annual flooding for 300 million people Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the unusually high number of zombie fires in 2023?

Higher than average temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Which design feature of the X-59 helps reduce noise production during flight?

Long pointed nose Signup and view all the answers

What type of vegetation predominantly supports zombie fires?

Coniferous forests Signup and view all the answers

What was the recorded increase in wildfire incidents compared to the previous year in Canada?

170 percent Signup and view all the answers

What happens during controlled fires set by farmers?

Excess vegetation is burned off. Signup and view all the answers

What term describes fires that appear to come back to life after seeming to be extinguished?

Zombie fires Signup and view all the answers

What was the anticipated outcome of NASA's flight tests of the X-59?

To gather feedback on sound produced over land Signup and view all the answers

What change was made regarding scoring in climbing events for the Paris Games?

Bouldering and lead climbing scores will be combined, while speed climbing is separate. Signup and view all the answers

What was notable about Rakus's method of treating his wound?

He chewed the plant and directly applied it to the wound. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes to the critically endangered status of Sumatran orangutans?

Their slow reproduction rate and habitat destruction. Signup and view all the answers

What type of tornado is referred to as an EF-4?

A tornado with winds between 166 mph and 200 mph. Signup and view all the answers

What environmental conditions contribute to the formation of tornadoes?

Cold, dry air mixing with warm, moist tropical air. Signup and view all the answers

How did Rakus respond after applying the healing juice to his injury?

He rested more than usual and returned to eat more leaves. Signup and view all the answers

Which month typically shows the peak tornado activity in the United States?

April Signup and view all the answers

What unique geographic region in the U.S. is particularly prone to tornadoes?

Tornado Alley Signup and view all the answers

What was the aftermath of the EF-4 tornado that struck Marietta, Oklahoma?

It destroyed multiple structures including a hospital. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Rakus's wound treatment observed by researchers?

It is the first known instance of a wild animal using plants for wound treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the significant tornado activity in April 2024 have on the U.S. statistics?

A new record for tornadoes was set. Signup and view all the answers

What likely caused Rakus's cheek wound, according to researchers?

A fight with another orangutan. Signup and view all the answers

How many Sumatran orangutans are estimated to be left in the wild?

Approximately 14,600 Signup and view all the answers

During what period was Rakus first noticed with a cheek wound?

June 2022 Signup and view all the answers

What is the historical origin of the cheese-rolling contest?

To settle land ownership disputes Signup and view all the answers

What is a key component of Abby Lampe's strategy for winning the cheese race?

Embracing the fall and rolling Signup and view all the answers

In what year did Claudia Sheinbaum become the first female president of Mexico?

2024 Signup and view all the answers

What is one of Sheinbaum's main goals as president?

To decrease violence through increased security Signup and view all the answers

Which challenge does Sheinbaum face regarding Mexico’s energy policy?

Reducing fossil fuel reliance by 50 percent Signup and view all the answers

What was the main achievement of China's Chang'e 6 mission?

Bringing back soil samples from the Moon's far side Signup and view all the answers

What was the landing location of the Chang'e 6 capsule?

Inner Mongolia Signup and view all the answers

Which notable action did the Chang'e 6 lander perform upon arrival?

Planting a flag Signup and view all the answers

What does Abby Lampe say about the pain experienced during the race?

It is temporary and manageable Signup and view all the answers

What type of scientist is Claudia Sheinbaum?

Climate scientist Signup and view all the answers

Which gender equality milestone is associated with Claudia Sheinbaum?

First female president of Mexico Signup and view all the answers

What feature allows Dogen City to produce food sustainably?

New farming technology using seawater Signup and view all the answers

Which type of cancer was targeted in Dr. Catherine Wu’s initial study?

Melanoma Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of the popularity of the cheese-rolling contest in 2009?

Cancellation of the event due to injuries Signup and view all the answers

What is the main technological feature of Sphere in Las Vegas?

A massive LED screen visible from miles away Signup and view all the answers

What method did the Chang'e 6 use to collect lunar samples?

A drill and robotic arm Signup and view all the answers

What significance does the South Pole-Aitken basin have in the context of the Chang'e 6 mission?

It is the largest impact crater in the Solar System Signup and view all the answers

What notable achievement did Dr. Catherine Wu's cancer vaccine study accomplish by 2021?

All six patients were declared cancer-free Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of the state-of-the-art health care available in Dogen City?

Advanced health assessments and personalized medical care Signup and view all the answers

What unique experience does The Sphere Experience offer to its attendees?

An interactive program hosted by humanoid robots Signup and view all the answers

What significant event is held each year on the last Monday of May in Gloucestershire, England?

A cheese-rolling competition Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Dogen City has yet to be disclosed as part of its development plan?

The cost and location of the project Signup and view all the answers

What type of technology does the Sphere utilize to allow audience members to experience sound vibrations?

Integrated sound system in select seats Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of Dr. Wu’s research on personalized vaccines?

To customize vaccines based on individual cancer characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What is the anticipated capacity of Dogen City?

10,000 residents and 40,000 visitors Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accolades did Dr. Catherine Wu receive in February 2024?

Sjöberg Prize Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of residents the future South Korean city of Busan aims to accommodate?

100,000 people Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the time did the machine learning model correctly identify the receiving elephant in the study?

28% Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of playing back the rumbles to wild elephants in the study?

To verify the elephants' recognition of their own calls Signup and view all the answers

What unique action do Florida carpenter ants perform on injured nestmates?

They perform life-saving surgeries Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Herculaneum's original beach was altered to enhance accessibility?

Replaced black sand with a dark-colored material Signup and view all the answers

What critical evidence found at Herculaneum contradicted the belief that residents escaped the eruption?

Over 300 skeletons in different locations Signup and view all the answers

What nickname was given to a notable skeleton found in Herculaneum?

The Ring Lady Signup and view all the answers

What did researchers plan to investigate next regarding elephant communication?

If elephants have names for other important elements Signup and view all the answers

What type of ant was central to the study about life-saving surgeries?

Florida carpenter ants Signup and view all the answers

How did the researchers simulate injuries on the ants during the study?

By purposely injuring their legs Signup and view all the answers

Which feature of Herculaneum was highlighted as a reason for its popularity among the upper-class families of Rome?

Its mild weather Signup and view all the answers

Which important discovery was made in the recent excavations at Herculaneum?

An underground theater and vibrant artworks Signup and view all the answers

What was the method used to gather elephant vocalizations for the study?

Collecting calls over 30 years from wild elephants Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the skeletons found in the boat houses in Herculaneum?

They were likely seeking refuge from the volcanic ash Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of isolated ants with femur injuries survived without treatment?

40% Signup and view all the answers

Which ant injury treatment yielded a higher survival rate for the injured ants?

Cleaning of tibia wounds Signup and view all the answers

Why do ants treat tibia injuries differently than femur injuries?

Tibia has less muscle tissue affecting blood flow. Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected timeframe for determining the value of the newly discovered diamond?

Several months Signup and view all the answers

What technique was used to uncover the massive diamond discovery?

X-ray technology Signup and view all the answers

What was the significant issue the Boeing Starliner faced during its approach to the ISS?

Helium leaks and thruster failures Signup and view all the answers

How much carbon pressure is required to form diamonds deep underground?

Over 93 miles deep Signup and view all the answers

What duty will astronauts Wilmore and Williams assume during their extended stay at the ISS?

Participating in scientific experiments Signup and view all the answers

What was the original plan for the Crew-9 mission before the delay caused by the Starliner?

Launch in August with four astronauts Signup and view all the answers

What year was the Cullinan diamond discovered?

1905 Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason the Starliner will return uncrewed to Earth?

Safety concerns regarding the craft Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable historical aspect of the Cullinan diamond?

It was split into almost 100 smaller gems after its discovery. Signup and view all the answers

What largely influences the ants' decision on the treatment of wounds?

The flow of hemolymph Signup and view all the answers

Which gemstone was previously recognized as the world's second-largest before the discovery of the new diamond?

Sewelô diamond Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary goals of China's upcoming Chang'e 7 and Chang'e 8 missions?

To search for water and other vital resources Signup and view all the answers

How did the US men's gymnastics team end its 16-year medal drought in the Olympic team event?

By winning a bronze medal in the team all-around final Signup and view all the answers

What might the preserved cherries and berries found in George Washington's home provide insights into?

The culinary practices and daily life of the Washingtons Signup and view all the answers

What led to speculation about Brody Malone's performance in the finals?

A serious knee injury he incurred 16 months prior Signup and view all the answers

What unique capability have elephants been observed to potentially possess according to recent studies?

Assigning individual 'names' to each other Signup and view all the answers

Why were the 35 glass bottles found at Mount Vernon exciting for archaeologists?

They contained fresh fruit preserved for 250 years Signup and view all the answers

What was significant about Stephen Nedoroscik's role in the men's gymnastics team success?

He had the only task of excelling at the pommel horse Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists plan to do with the preserved cherry seeds from the Mount Vernon excavation?

Germinate them to create a living artifact of American history Signup and view all the answers

What does Dr. Michael Pardo's study suggest about the way elephants communicate compared to dolphins and parrots?

Elephants use specific 'names' instead of imitation Signup and view all the answers

When were the glass bottles likely buried under the clay at Mount Vernon?

Before 1776 Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the performance of Brody Malone during the trials leading up to the Olympics?

He faced challenges but recovered in the finals Signup and view all the answers

How are the preserved fruits expected to contribute to historical knowledge?

By helping understand how Virginia's climate has changed over time Signup and view all the answers

What added complexity did the findings at Mount Vernon highlight regarding the Washingtons and their household?

The influence of enslaved communities in daily life Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable feature of the upcoming crewed missions to the Moon planned for 2030?

They aim to establish a permanent lunar base at the south pole Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Earth Day 2024

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22, highlights the need for environmental protection.
The global movement began in 1970 when Gaylord Nelson mobilized over 20 million people.
Earth Day Network (EDN) has over 50,000 partners in 190+ countries, leading to landmark environmental laws (Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, Paris Agreement).
The 2024 theme is "Planet vs. Plastics," focusing on the 380 million tons of plastic produced annually, with 50% for single-use.
EDN seeks a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040.
Four strategies to achieve this are: raising awareness of health risks, persuading countries to phase out single-use plastics, pushing for policies to curtail fast fashion, and encouraging corporations to invest in sustainable alternatives.
Kathleen Rogers, EarthDay.org president, emphasizes the pervasive presence of microplastics and the unknown health risks.
Individuals can also reduce plastic use by carrying reusable cutlery, containers, water bottles, and lunch bags.

Nova Outburst

A nova is a sudden increase in a star's brightness in a binary system involving a red giant and white dwarf.
Material shed by the red giant accumulates on the white dwarf and eventually leads to an explosion.
T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) is a binary system located 3,000 light-years from Earth known for periodic nova outbursts (approximately every 80 years).
The last outburst was in 1946.
An upcoming outburst, predicted to occur sometime before September 2024, will be visible to the naked eye for days and weeks with binoculars.

Taiwan Earthquake

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan's east coast on April 3, 2024, causing significant damage and fatalities.
This was the most powerful quake to hit the island in 25 years.
The low death toll (13 killed, over a thousand injured) is attributed to preemptive measures like sensors, phone alerts, and annual earthquake drills.
Strict building codes also contributed to the low fatality rate, although landslides were the primary cause of death.
Taiwan's preparedness is considered among the most advanced globally.

Around the World

Cole Brauer, a 29-year-old from Long Island, NY, became the first American woman to sail solo around the world non-stop (130 days).
Chimpanzees employ human-like military tactics to evaluate risk and expand their territories (e.g., patrolling borders, using elevation for reconnaissance).
An 18th-century sketch of North Carolina troops marching through Philadelphia, discovered after 40 years, is now recognized as an important eyewitness account.
A male crab spider, in cooperation with a female, disguises itself to resemble a flower, a form of cooperative mimicry.
A new, massive ichthyosaur species, Ichthyotitan severnensis, estimated to be 80 ft long, was discovered by a father-daughter team in England.
Trillions of periodical cicadas are emerging simultaneously in 16 US states, a rare event.
Breaking (breakdancing), surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing are new sports added to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

New Discoveries & Events

A Sumatran orangutan, Rakus, treated a wound with a medicinal plant, demonstrating self-treatment in a wild animal.
A severe tornado outbreak in April 2024 caused significant damage across the Midwest and South Central US, with the town of Marietta, OK, being particularly hard hit.
Canada experienced a record-breaking 2023 wildfire season. Many of the fires have resurfaced, now called "zombie fires," due to lingering smoldering under the snow.
NASA's X-59 aircraft is testing supersonic flight without sonic booms.
Japan's floating city N-Ark aims to accommodate 10,000 residents with self-sufficient facilities in response to rising sea levels
A personalized cancer vaccine approach is gaining traction, providing promising results in the treatment of advanced melanoma.
Sphere, a new entertainment venue in Las Vegas featuring a massive LED screen and advanced audio, debuted with U2's residency.
A Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling competition, a historic event resumed despite past cancellations due to injury concerns.
Claudia Sheinbaum became the first female president of Mexico, also the first Jewish leader.
China's Chang'e 6 lunar probe collected soil samples from the Moon's far side, marking a breakthrough in lunar exploration.
The US gymnastics teams won a total of 10 medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Excavations at Mount Vernon revealed 35 glass bottles with preserved cherries and berries from the 18th century.
A unique study shows elephants might have names for each other.
The Italian ancient city, Herculaneum, now has a restored beach area, open to the public.

Animal Behavior & Research

Ants perform life-saving surgeries on injured nestmates, showcasing advanced social behavior.
Chimpanzees employ sophisticated tactics for territorial defense and expansion.
A Sumatran orangutan, Rakus, demonstrates self-treatment of a wound, using medicinal plants.

Other Notable Events

A massive 2,492-carat diamond was discovered in the Karowe mine in Botswana.
NASA's Starliner spacecraft will return to Earth uncrewed, due to safety concerns, with the crew now scheduled to return with Crew-9.

Studying That Suits You

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Description

Test your knowledge about Earth Day 2024, its history, and its significance in promoting environmental protection. Learn about this year's theme 'Planet vs. Plastics' and the strategies to reduce plastic production. Discover how you can contribute to the movement against plastic pollution.