Polaris Dawn & CO2 Initiatives Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What company is building a DAC plant in Louisiana that is expected to capture one million tons of CO2 annually by 2030?

  • Mammoth
  • SpaceX
  • Climeworks (correct)
  • Occidental

    • The Polaris Dawn mission was the first commercial space mission to carry civilian astronauts.

    False (B)

    What is the name of the SpaceX spacecraft that was used for the Polaris Dawn mission?

    Dragon

    The Polaris Dawn mission set a new space altitude record, reaching ______ miles (1,400 km) above Earth.

    <p>870</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following companies with their key initiatives related to carbon dioxide removal and space travel:

    <p>Climeworks = Building large-scale DAC plants to capture CO2 Occidental = Building a commercial-scale DAC plant in Texas SpaceX = Developing reusable rockets and conducting civilian space missions Mammoth = Developing a DAC technology to extract CO2 from the air</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who served as the mission leader for the Polaris Dawn mission?

    <p>Jared Isaacman (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Polaris Dawn mission was a five-day flight.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main purpose for reaching the high altitude during the Polaris Dawn mission?

    <p>To assess the impact of increased radiation levels on the Dragon capsule and its crew.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Alex Morgan's decisive goal in the 2012 Olympics semifinals helped the USWNT secure a spot in the finals against which country?

    <p>Canada (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Alex Morgan retired from professional soccer after playing her final game for the San Diego Wave.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary purpose of the "pre-breathing" routine undertaken by the astronauts before their spacewalk?

    <p>To prevent decompression sickness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the foundation founded by Alex Morgan to promote opportunities for girls and women?

    <p>Alex Morgan Foundation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The bronze sword discovered in Egypt was marked with the insignia of ______.

    <p>Ramses II</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The new spacesuits worn by Isaacman and Gillis included the same life support systems as traditional spacesuits.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the name of the AI program developed by Brent Seales and his team to help decode the ancient scrolls?

    <p>Vesuvius Challenge</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following items found at the ancient Egyptian fort with their significance:

    <p>Bead Necklaces = Provides insights into soldiers' personal lives Clay Tablets = Contains inscriptions about Ramses II Grain Storerooms = Indicates a self-sufficient community Large Clay Pots with Bones = Suggests a diverse diet Ovens for Baking = Indicates a self-sufficient community</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The first word identified from the ancient scrolls was the Greek word for ______.

    <p>purple</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the name of the ancient military fort where the bronze sword was discovered?

    <p>Tell Al-Abqain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the scroll passages decoded by Farritor, Nader, and Schillinger reveal about the philosopher Philodemus' thoughts?

    <p>The relationship between material wealth and happiness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following states was NOT affected by Hurricane Helene?

    <p>Alabama (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following figures with their respective achievements:

    <p>Alex Morgan = Decoded the first word from the ancient scrolls Luke Farritor = Retired from professional soccer after a successful career Brent Seales = Developed the AI program for decoding the ancient scrolls</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Vesuvius Challenge involved decoding all of the ancient scrolls discovered in Herculaneum.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hurricane Helene brought torrential rains and generated numerous ______ across the areas in its path.

    <p>tornadoes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the total prize money awarded to the team that decoded the first word from the ancient scrolls?

    <p>$50,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hurricane Helene was the deadliest hurricane to strike the mainland US in history.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following cities was one of the hardest hit by Hurricane Helene?

    <p>Asheville, North Carolina (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Dragon capsule splashed down into the ______ after the historic space mission.

    <p>Gulf of Mexico</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary purpose of Alex Morgan's retirement announcement?

    <p>To focus on her young family. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The three-day period from September 25 to 27, 2024, was the wettest on record for the region, with some areas receiving three months worth of rain in just ______ days.

    <p>three</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The new spacesuits worn by Isaacman and Gillis had no limitations in terms of their duration of use.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ancient Egyptian material was used as eyeliner to protect the eyes from the harsh desert sun?

    <p>Kohl</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ramses II successfully expanded the borders of ancient Egypt during his reign.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What nickname did Alex Morgan earn early in her career with the US Women's National Team?

    <p>Baby Horse</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum were buried under a thick layer of ______ debris.

    <p>volcanic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary reason for the success of the bronze sword discovered in Egypt in retaining its shine after being buried for 3,000 years?

    <p>The sword was buried in a dry environment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main challenge faced by researchers attempting to unfold the ancient scrolls found in Herculaneum?

    <p>The scrolls were too fragile and crumbled into dust. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Vesuvius Challenge ended with the successful decoding of one entire scroll.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main purpose of the Vesuvius Challenge?

    <p>To decode the ancient scrolls found in Herculaneum.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary reason for the USWNT lawsuit against the US Soccer Federation in 2019?

    <p>Gender discrimination in pay and treatment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Alex Morgan retired from professional soccer in 2024.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the foundation founded by Alex Morgan to promote equity and opportunities for girls and women?

    <p>Alex Morgan Foundation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ancient bronze sword discovered in Egypt was inscribed with the insignia of _____.

    <p>Ramses II</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following discoveries from the ancient fort with their significance:

    <p>Sword with Ramses II's insignia = Indicates the fort's importance and possible on-site weapon production Clay tablets with Ramses' name = Reveals the presence of a high-ranking official or connection to the pharaoh's court Grain storage and ovens = Demonstrates the fort's capacity for self-sufficiency Fish and animal bones = Indicates a varied diet for the fort's inhabitants Bead necklaces and kohl eyeliner applicator = Provides a glimpse into the soldiers' personal lives and grooming practices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these organizations is providing temporary shelters and meals to those affected by the disaster?

    <p>The American Red Cross (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The president has approved a major disaster declaration for only Florida.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the estimated impact of earthworms on global food production annually, as reported by Colorado State University?

    <p>6.5 percent, or 140 million tons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The scientists at Nankai University found that earthworms can protect plants from ______ pollution.

    <p>microplastic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following animals with their deceptive tactics:

    <p>Wasps = Turning spiders into 'zombie' slaves Mouse-eared bats = Mimicking hornet buzzes Orb-weaver spiders = Manipulating mating signals of fireflies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where is the orb-weaver spider species Araneus ventricosus primarily found?

    <p>Asia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Female fireflies emit two flashes to attract males.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the researchers do to investigate the impact of the orb-weaver spider on fireflies?

    <p>They divided 161 orb weaver webs into four experimental groups, manipulating the presence of spiders, fireflies, and the firefly's light.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The orb-weaver spiders wrap fireflies in a ______ layer of silk, ensuring their flashes remain visible.

    <p>light</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Male fireflies only emit single, female-like signals when a spider is nearby.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a way earthworms help plant growth?

    <p>Producing their own fertilizer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the researcher from Huazhong Agricultural University who observed the orb-weaver spiders manipulating fireflies?

    <p>Xinhua Fu</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The researchers believe that earthworms help boost the tomato plants' ______ which makes them more resilient to environmental changes.

    <p>immune systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The orb-weaver spiders use venom to paralyze their prey, but do not manipulate their signals.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following researchers with their respective institutions:

    <p>Steven Fonte = Colorado State University Xinhua Fu = Huazhong Agricultural University Dr. Li = Huazhong Agricultural University</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The USC Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL) broke the world record for the highest altitude reached by a student-built rocket.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the RPL's decision to focus on developing "sounding" rockets in the future?

    <p>To carry scientific instruments into space for research purposes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ______ solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

    <p>winter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the December solstice for ancient cultures?

    <p>The December solstice held great significance for ancient cultures as it marked the Sun's 'rebirth' and signaled the return of longer days after a period of darkness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following locations with their solstice celebrations:

    <p>Stonehenge = Yule celebration Newgrange = Light beam illuminating the central chamber Ocean Beach, San Francisco = Bonfire Anchorage, Alaska = Ice lanterns and northern lights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of the Europa Clipper mission?

    <p>To determine if Europa could support life (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The November 2016 supermoon was the closest seen in recent history.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the last supermoon of 2024?

    <p>Beaver Moon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The drone developed by Professor Emad Ebeid's team recharges its batteries by drawing power from ______.

    <p>overhead power lines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following full moons with their corresponding months:

    <p>Blue Moon = August Harvest Moon = September Hunter Moon = October Beaver Moon = November</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the estimated value of the Chew Valley Hoard?

    <p>$5.5 million (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The drone developed by Professor Emad Ebeid is capable of staying airborne for over two hours after a single recharge.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the process that currently relies on helicopters and ground crews for power line inspections and maintenance?

    <p>Inefficient and costly</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Adam Staples and his friends found a trove of ______ buried in a farmer's field.

    <p>silver coins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following full moons with their other names:

    <p>Beaver Moon = Digging Moon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for the variation in the distance between the Moon and Earth?

    <p>The Moon's elliptical orbit (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Scientists have found evidence to support the claim that supermoons can cause earthquakes or tidal waves.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the average distance between the Moon and Earth at perigee?

    <p>226,000 miles (363,711 km)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Chew Valley Hoard is considered Britain's most valuable ______ find.

    <p>treasure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following events with their years:

    <p>The unveiling of the first drone = 1907 The discovery of the Chew Valley Hoard = 2019 The purchase of the Chew Valley Hoard by the South West Heritage Trust = 2024</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What behavior do spiders use to attract male fireflies?

    <p>They wrap them in silk (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Male fireflies emit two flash signals when a spider is nearby.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum number of electoral votes a candidate needs to secure the presidency?

    <p>270</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The __________ system allows a candidate to win all electoral votes in a state by winning the majority of votes.

    <p>winner-takes-all</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following US states with their electoral votes:

    <p>California = 54 Texas = 40 New York = 28 Florida = 30</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do supporters of the Electoral College believe?

    <p>It ensures equal representation for less populous areas (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The popular vote is the only factor that determines the outcome of a presidential election.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strange seismic event occurred in mid-September 2023?

    <p>A landslide and tsunami in a fjord in East Greenland.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Spiders use __________ to manipulate the male fireflies' signals.

    <p>venom</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the presidential candidates with their titles:

    <p>Kamala Harris = Vice President Donald Trump = Former President</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many instances in US history have candidates won the Electoral College but lost the popular vote?

    <p>5 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Fireflies typically resume their normal flashing pattern after recovery from a spider's influence.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When does a new president's term officially begin?

    <p>January 20 of the following year after inauguration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    California gets __________ electoral votes due to its population size.

    <p>54</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Electoral College consist of?

    <p>Electors representing each state (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Voter turnout is unaffected by the political lean of a state.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Chew Valley Hoard contains coins that represent both King Harold II and William I.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Chew Valley Hoard is estimated to have been worth about ______ sheep.

    <p>500</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the LignoSat project?

    <p>To study the effects of space on wood. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did President Joe Biden authorize on October 2, 2024, to assist communities affected by the hurricane?

    <p>Deployment of 1,000 soldiers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the university that collaborated with Sumitomo Forestry on the LignoSat project?

    <p>Kyoto University</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Earthworms decrease crop yields in developing countries.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The LignoSat satellite is designed to orbit Earth for six months before burning up in the atmosphere.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What triggered the 650-foot-tall tsunami discussed in the passage?

    <p>A landslide (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the estimated economic loss for businesses on Friday the 13th?

    <p>$900 million (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The seiche phenomenon is only observed in large bodies of water like oceans.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the Aftershock II rocket contributed to its record-breaking altitude?

    <p>Titanium-coated fins and heat-resistant paint. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant impact do earthworms have on soil?

    <p>They aerate and enrich the soil, making nutrients more available to plants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Aftershock II rocket reached a maximum speed of ______ mph, which is ______ times the speed of sound.

    Signup and view all the answers

    What evidence do scientists have linking climate change to the recent landslide?

    <p>Rising temperatures have melted the glacier at the base of the mountain, causing instability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The orb-weaver spider species is primarily found in ______, ______, and ______.

    <p>China, Japan, Korea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Fewer traffic accidents occur on Friday the 13th compared to other Fridays.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The CZU Lightning Complex Fire in 2020 burned _____ percent of the Big Basin Redwood State Park.

    <p>97</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many tons of carbon can the Mammoth DAC plant absorb annually?

    <p>39,000 tons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following contributions to their sources:

    <p>President Biden = Deployment of soldiers for disaster relief American Red Cross = Temporary shelters and meals Earthworms = Improving soil fertility NFL = Pledged financial support for disaster relief</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the adaptations of redwood trees with their descriptions:

    <p>Energy storage = Sustains trees when leaves are burned Bud tissue = Enables rapid leaf regrowth after a fire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Dragon capsule used in the Polaris Dawn mission lifted off from ________.

    <p>Florida's Kennedy Space Center</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of global food production is attributed to earthworms according to the research from CSU?

    <p>6.5% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following companies to their related projects:

    <p>Climeworks = Mammoth DAC Plant Occidental = DAC plant in Texas SpaceX = Polaris Dawn mission</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The orb-weaver spider can manipulate the mating signals of female fireflies.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many days did the seismic signal continue after the landslide?

    <p>Nine days (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are experts developing to help reduce atmospheric CO2 levels?

    <p>Direct air capture plants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bud tissue in redwood trees is only present in younger trees.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What environmental issue did the earthworm research from Japan's Nankai University address?

    <p>Microplastic pollution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Carbon dioxide release from burning fossil fuels contributes positively to global warming.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The fireflies attract mates by emitting ______ flashes.

    <p>flashes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the number 13 according to the superstition?

    <p>It is considered unlucky because it follows the complete number 12.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many businesses were destroyed or severely damaged in Chimney Rock?

    <p>All businesses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The fear of the number 13 is called _____.

    <p>triskaidekaphobia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What altitude did the Polaris Dawn mission reach, setting a record for civilian spaceflights?

    <p>870 miles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the events to their historical or biblical associations with Friday the 13th:

    <p>Cain killing Abel = First historical event on Friday the 13th Jesus' crucifixion = Biblical event associated with Friday Last Supper = Involves Jesus and his apostles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The cooking process in the Mammoth DAC plant results in carbon dioxide turning into ________.

    <p>stone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Chimney Rock's population is approximately 125 people.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the environment contributed to the intensity of the CZU Lightning Complex Fire?

    <p>Dry conditions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did local governments and businesses play in the hurricane relief efforts?

    <p>They contributed cash donations and essential supplies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following milestones to their corresponding missions:

    <p>Mammoth = Largest DAC plant Polaris Dawn = First civilian spacewalk Gemini 11 = Previous altitude record</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The science behind redwood regrowth has been studied for decades.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The earthworm increase in grain yields was recorded at ______% in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    <p>10</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the expected annual CO2 capture capacity of Occidental's new plant in Texas?

    <p>500,000 tons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Klaus Lackner believes that DAC efforts should solely focus on reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What extraordinary ability do redwood trees have that aids their survival after fires?

    <p>They can regenerate leaves using stored energy and bud tissue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for a major disaster declaration in the affected states?

    <p>President Joe Biden (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What unique feature did the new spacesuits have during the first civilian spacewalk?

    <p>Lacked life support systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The towering redwoods can reach heights over _____ feet.

    <p>300</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following contributions with their monetary values:

    <p>NFL = $8 million Federal Assistance = Variable amounts Red Cross = Tens of thousands of meals Local businesses = Cash donations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does high-resolution sonar play in understanding the tsunami's impact?

    <p>It helped identify the seiche phenomenon. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many electoral votes does a candidate need to secure the presidency?

    <p>270 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The winner-takes-all system means that a candidate can lose the majority of votes in a state and still receive its electoral votes.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What system do Americans use to elect their president and vice president?

    <p>Electoral College</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The octopus is known for its use of __________ shells as mobile homes.

    <p>coconut</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following candidates with their 2024 presidential election status:

    <p>Kamala Harris = Vice President Donald Trump = Former President</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which state receives the most electoral votes?

    <p>California (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    There have been twelve instances in US history where a candidate won the electoral vote but lost the popular vote.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The total number of electoral votes in the United States is __________.

    <p>538</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do some Americans believe the Electoral College should be abolished?

    <p>It deters voting in heavily biased states (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Octopuses showed no leadership qualities during the study.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of the Electoral College according to its supporters?

    <p>Equal representation for less populated areas</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the election transition period, the new leader prepares for the next __________ in office.

    <p>four years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following candidates with their parties:

    <p>Kamala Harris = Democratic Party Donald Trump = Republican Party</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the first word decoded from the ancient scrolls?

    <p>Porphyras (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Herculaneum scrolls were found in perfect condition after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who developed the AI program to help decode the Herculaneum scrolls?

    <p>Brent Seales</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Alex Morgan announced her retirement from professional soccer on _____ (date).

    <p>September 5, 2024</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the achievements with Alex Morgan's career:

    <p>176 = Combined goals and assists 22 = World Cup appearances 16 = Olympic matches 2 = FIFA Women's World Cup titles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant challenge did Brent Seales issue in March 2023?

    <p>Decode 85 percent of characters in four passages (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Alex Morgan was known as 'Baby Horse' for her speed.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much was the cash prize for the team that decodes at least 90 percent of all four scrolls?

    <p>$100,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The scrolls from Herculaneum were buried under volcanic debris from Mount _____.

    <p>Vesuvius</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major topic discussed in the decoded passages attributed to Philodemus?

    <p>Effects of abundance on joy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The AI technology developed by Seales's team successfully decoded all scrolls.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which two students decoded the first word from the Herculaneum scrolls?

    <p>Luke Farritor and Youssef Nader</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Morgan's decisive goal in the 2012 Olympics led the USWNT to the _____ final.

    <p>gold medal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the age of Alex Morgan at the time of her retirement?

    <p>35 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the individuals to their contributions in the Vesuvius Challenge:

    <p>Luke Farritor = Decoded the first word Youssef Nader = Shared first Letters Prize Brent Seales = Created the AI program Julian Schillinger = Teamed with other students</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the octopus teaming up with the blue goatfish?

    <p>The fish help uncover prey hidden in crevices. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Donald Trump is the first Republican candidate to win both the electoral and popular votes since George W. Bush's reelection in 2004.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was Donald Trump's running mate in the 2024 presidential election?

    <p>JD Vance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Europa's energy source likely comes from the gravitational pull of ______.

    <p>Jupiter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following individuals with their historic significance in the 2024 election:

    <p>Donald Trump = 47th US President Kamala Harris = Vice President running against Trump JD Vance = First millennial vice president Grover Cleveland = First president to serve two non-consecutive terms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential benefit of Europa's icy crust?

    <p>It may support microbial life. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Europa Clipper spacecraft will land on Europa to collect samples.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    On what date did NASA launch the Europa Clipper spacecraft?

    <p>October 14, 2024</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The octopus partnered with the blue goatfish to save the effort of ______ on its own.

    <p>searching</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many electoral votes did Donald Trump secure in the 2024 election?

    <p>292 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Europa is considered a candidate for finding alien life due to its possible liquid water ocean.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What will the Europa Clipper spend about a year preparing for once it reaches its destination?

    <p>Its first flyby of Europa</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the 2024 election, Donald Trump is the oldest elected president at ______ years old.

    <p>78</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following facts about Europa Clipper’s journey:

    <p>Launch from Kennedy Space Center = October 14, 2024 First gravity assist = February 2025 Final push by Earth = December 2025 Arrival at Jupiter = April 2030</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key elements believed to support life on Europa?

    <p>Oxygen (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Chew Valley Hoard is believed to have been buried for safekeeping.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What marked a significant turning point in England's history, around the time the Chew Valley Hoard coins were minted?

    <p>The Norman Conquest of 1066 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main reason for the Norman Conquest?

    <p>The Norman Conquest was initiated by William, Duke of Normandy, claiming the English throne after the death of King Edward the Confessor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The coins from the Chew Valley Hoard feature either ______ or ______.

    <p>Harold II, William I</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main purpose of testing a wooden satellite?

    <p>To reduce the amount of space junk (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the world's first wooden satellite?

    <p>LignoSat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The LignoSat Space Wood Project is a collaboration between universities in the USA and Japan.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aftershock II, launched by USC Rocket Propulsion Lab, broke the amateur rocket space altitude record by reaching ______ feet (143.3 km).

    <p>470,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What technological innovation contributed significantly to Aftershock II's success?

    <p>The use of titanium-coated fins and heat-resistant paint (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the organization responsible for Aftershock II's development?

    <p>USC Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aftershock II reached its peak altitude in less than a minute after launch.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the estimated worth of the Chew Valley Hoard, in terms of sheep?

    <p>500 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Chew Valley Hoard will be permanently housed at the ______.

    <p>South West Museum of Somerset</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason some coins from the Chew Valley Hoard were cut in half?

    <p>The coins were cut in half to create smaller units of money.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Direct Air Capture (DAC) Plants

    • Climeworks' Mammoth plant in Iceland extracts 39,000 tons of CO2 annually.
    • This is projected to increase significantly; a Climeworks plant in Louisiana is expected to capture 1,000,000 tons annually by 2030.
    • Occidental is building a commercial-scale DAC plant in Texas, estimating 500,000 annual CO2 removal by 2025.
    • Critics argue DAC plants' cost and potential distraction from reducing fossil fuel use, while environmentalists see them as valuable supplementary efforts.

    SpaceX Polaris Dawn Mission

    • SpaceX completed the Polaris Dawn mission, a five-day commercial spaceflight carrying a civilian crew.
    • The mission reached a record altitude of 870 miles (1,400 km).
    • The mission's prime purpose was to assess radiation impact on the Dragon capsule and crew for future lunar missions.
    • Astronauts conducted a civilian spacewalk, a first.

    Herculaneum Scrolls Decoding

    • 1,800 charred papyrus scrolls were found in Herculaneum.
    • A global student-led project (Vesuvius Challenge) was launched to decode the scrolls using AI and X-ray imagery.
    • A key word, "porphyras" (Greek for purple), was decoded by Luke Farritor and Youssef Nader.
    • The winning team decoded approximately 5% of the scroll.
    • A larger prize is offered for deciphering 90% of all scrolls by the end of 2024.

    Alex Morgan Retirement

    • American soccer star Alex Morgan retired in September 2024.
    • Morgan played a key role in the US Women's National Team (USWNT) winning back-to-back FIFA World Cups (2015, 2019) and numerous other matches.
    • Morgan ranks fifth all-time in USWNT history for combined goals and assists (176).
    • She sued the US Soccer Federation for gender discrimination and equal pay.

    Egyptian Bronze Sword Discovery

    • A bronze sword with Ramses II insignia was unearthed in Tell Al-Abqain.
    • The sword's discovery suggests a well-defended fort with possible on-site weapons production.
    • The fort also indicates a soldier's self-sufficient community with diverse diets.
    • Other discoveries include storerooms, ovens, pots with food remains, and personal items like kohl applicators and bead necklaces.

    Hurricane Helene

    • Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Perry, Florida in September 2024.
    • It was the most powerful hurricane in the region since records began in 1851.
    • Helene caused significant damage, flooding, and widespread destruction.
    • Official storm-related deaths totaled 170, making it one of the deadliest hurricanes in mainland US history.

    Earthworm Impact on Plant Growth and Microplastics

    • Earthworms contribute to about 6.5% of global food production annually (approximately 140 million tons)
    • They enhance soil aeration, drainage, and nutrient availability, increasing grain yields in developing countries.
    • Earthworms effectively combat microplastic pollution by protecting plants from its harmful effects.

    Spider Manipulates Firefly Signals

    • A spider species, Araneus ventricosus, manipulates firefly signals.
    • Spiders use a light layer of silk to ensnare fireflies, keeping their flashes visible and delaying their capture.
    • The venom may alter the fireflies' light emission patterns by interfering with their oxygen supply.
    • Fireflies emitting single flashes were more readily caught, suggesting spider manipulation.

    US Presidential Election of 2024

    • The US Presidential election took place on November 5, 2024.
    • Donald Trump won reelection with 292 electoral votes.
    • The Electoral College system assigns votes based on each state's population, and the winner-takes-all system in most states contributes to the possibility of winning the presidency without winning the popular vote.

    Greenland Landslide and Tsunami

    • A massive landslide and tsunami in Dickson Fjord, East Greenland caused seismic waves that lasted nine days.
    • The confined fjord geometry generated a seiche.
    • The event was traced to glacier melt due to rising temperatures—impacting the region's crust.

    Big Basin Redwood Fire Recovery

    • The 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire significantly damaged Big Basin Redwood State Park.
    • Redwood trees possess remarkable resilience, storing photosynthesis energy for later use and having robust bud tissue for sprouting.
    • The stored energy supports rapid leaf regrowth, even after severe fire damage.
    • The redwoods proved their capacity for regrowth with 90 percent exhibiting regrowth, promising full recovery.

    Friday the 13th Superstition

    • Friday the 13th is considered unlucky by many people globally, primarily due to the fear of the number 13, following the "complete" number 12.
    • The day's ill-repute, also linked to Scandinavian folklore, biblical events like Jesus' crucifixion and Cain's killing of Abel, and the forbidden fruit.
    • Contrary to belief, studies indicate that traffic accidents, fires, and theft are not increased on this day.
    • Businesses often offer discounts on Friday the 13th to encourage business.

    Wooden Satellite Launch

    • LignoSat, the world's first wooden satellite, was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) on November 5, 2024, to test the use of wood for spacecraft.
    • It aims to use a more environmentally friendly material to reduce space junk by leaving behind water and carbon dioxide instead of aluminum oxide particles.

    Student-Built Rocket Record

    • Aftershock II, built by USC students, broke a 20-year-old amateur rocket altitude record, reaching 470,000 feet (143.3 km) on October 20, 2024.
    • Improvements included titanium-coated fins and heat-resistant paint for withstanding extreme temperatures.
    • Future projects focus on sounding rockets for research purposes instead of longer-distance launches.

    Winter Solstice 2024

    • The winter solstice (shortest day and longest night in the Northern Hemisphere) occurs on December 21, 2024.
    • Significance to ancient cultures and various urban traditions for the celebration of the solstice.
    • The time of year beavers seek shelter in their lodges, and animals were trapped due to their thick winter coats.

    Octopus Hunting Strategies

    • Octopuses exhibit leadership in hunting groups, potentially disciplining individuals who exploit the group without contributing to hunting.
    • Octopuses (Octopus cyanea) demonstrate group hunting behavior with fish (specifically blue goatfish) that helps maximize resources.
    • Cooperation between octopuses and fish benefits both species. Various fish species are involved, but blue goatfish are preferred.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on the Polaris Dawn mission and important developments in carbon dioxide capture technologies. This quiz covers key figures, milestones, and the intersection of space travel and environmental efforts. Dive in to find out how much you really know!

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