Question 1

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Which question is most effectively answered by this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  How is palladium mined?
B)  What are precious metals?
C)  Who is William Hyde Wollaston?
D)  What is palladium? D

Question 2

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Palladium mining is an intricate process because it is spread out under the earth's surface. Mining palladium uses mechanical extraction methods that simplify the process. Makes it easier to get down into the Earth's crust. The reserves in the upper portions of the crust is becoming depleted, so miners have to dig deeper. Most palladium is in Russian, North America, South Africa, and South America. The largest North American palladium mine - Montana's Stillwater mine - is located in the United States. In South Africa, there is the largest proportion of palladium and platinum resource located mainly at the Bushveld Igeneous Complex.
What is the main idea of this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  Worldwide reserves of palladium are depleted, leading to deeper mines and higher prices.
B)  Discovered in 1804, palladium, a precious metal, is used for jewelry and industry, and is mined in North and South America, Russia, and South Africa.
C)  The Palladium mines in North America and South Africa produce most of the world's supply of this precious metal.
D)  Mechanical extraction of palladium is a simple process and has made it easier to extract the metal from the earth. B

Question 3

The World Wildlife Foundation recently reports that the number of monarch butterflies overwintering in Mexico has declined drastically. When monarch butterflies arrive in Mexico from Canada and the United States, they converge on oyamel fir trees. The trees provide shelter to monarch butterflies they are also essential to the communities that surround the forests. In the past, residents used the wood for cooking and heating, but recently, they have began to sell it in order to support their livelihoods. Te destruction of their overwintering grounds also poses a considerate threat.
Why have the ovamel fir tree forests decreased in recent years?

Accepted Answer

A)  Severe drought has led to the death of many trees.
B)  There is no conservation plan in place to protect the trees.
C)  Scientists were not aware of the need to maintain the forests.
D)  Residents have begun selling the trees for profit, rather than only using them for personal needs. D

Question 4

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Palladium mining is an intricate process because it is spread out under the earth's surface. Mining palladium uses mechanical extraction methods that simplify the process. Makes it easier to get down into the Earth's crust. The reserves in the upper portions of the crust is becoming depleted, so miners have to dig deeper. Most palladium is in Russian, North America, South Africa, and South America. The largest North American palladium mine - Montana's Stillwater mine - is located in the United States. In South Africa, there is the largest proportion of palladium and platinum resource located mainly at the Bushveld Igeneous Complex.
Why do automobile manufacturers use palladium?

Accepted Answer

A)  In the construction of catalytic converters.
B)  To form into sheets, or into precise surgical instruments.
C)  To create white gold by mixing it with gold.
D)  To mix with silver, platinum and other precious metals to create a new alloy.

Question 5

Although water covers approximately sixty-seven percent of the Earth's surface, less than three percent is fresh water. Accounting for fresh water locked in glaciers, icecaps, or otherwise inaccessible, less than a tenth of a percent of the Earth's water is available for human consumption. Pollution, population growth, and wasteful irrigation practices they are contributing to a worldwide water shortage. When the clear precious liquid becomes scarce, countries begin to assert claims on fresh water supplies. As a result, drinkable water has become a region of conflict that could eventually lead to greater hostilities between nations.
How much of the earth is covered by water?

Accepted Answer

A)   .10%
B)   10%
C)   67%
D)   3%

Question 6

When monarch butterflies arrive in Mexico from Canada and the United States, they converge on oyamel fir trees. The trees provide shelter to monarch butterflies they are also essential to the communities that surround the forests. In the past, residents used the wood for cooking and heating, but recently, they have began to sell it in order to support their livelihoods. As a result of logging oyamel fir trees, the habitat of the monarch butterfly population has shrunk.
What is the main idea of this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  Because of an increase in harvesting of the ovamel fir tree, the monarch butterfly population in North America has decreased sharply.
B)  Monarch butterflies migrate from Canada and the United States to Mexico, where they spend the winter in a fir-tree forest.
C)  Scientists predicted that monarch butterflies will soon become endangered, then extinct.
D)  The economic crisis has caused Mexican land owners to harvest ovamel fir trees for sale, rather than only for personal use.

Question 7

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food.
Based on past efforts to legally require GMO labeling in other states, what can be inferred about the public's concern with GMOs?

Accepted Answer

A)  The public is very concerned with GMOs and is attempting to draw attention to their use in food.
B)  The public does not understand the dangers of GMOs and is not making rational decisions about labeling.
C)  The public is easily misled by large corporations and is making uninformed choices.
D)  The public is not overwhelmingly concerned with GMOs and has not required labeling in any states thus far.

Question 8

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food. Corporations that produce genetically modified foods point to hundreds of studies that show that they are safe. California voters will soon make a choice about GMO foods labels, and both sides are spending millions of dollars to influence their decisions. The result of the ballot initiative will reverberate throughout the nation.
What is the main idea of this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  There are many studies that show that genetically modified foods are no more dangerous than other foods.
B)  California voters will soon decide if foods with genetically modified ingredients must be labeled.
C)  Scientists use genetically modified organisms to protect crops.
D)  The campaigns on both sides of Proposition 37 are spending millions of dollars.

Question 9

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food.
How many other states have tried to pass GMO labeling laws?

Accepted Answer

A)  California is the first state to try to pass a GMO labeling law.
B)  More than a dozen other states have tried to pass GMO labeling laws.
C)  Ten states in the United States currently have GMO labeling laws.
D)  Records are not maintained regarding what states have initiated GMO labeling laws.

Question 10

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food. California voters will soon make a choice about GMO foods labels, and both sides are spending millions of dollars to influence their decisions. The result of the ballot initiative will reverberate throughout the nation.
How do proponents of Proposition 37 in California hope their efforts will compare to those of advocates of GMO labeling in other states?

Accepted Answer

A)  California advocates hope they will be as successful as advocates in other states.
B)  California advocates hope successes in other states will create momentum for their efforts in California.
C)  California advocates hope they will have more money to campaign than their counterparts in other states have had.
D)  California advocates hope they will be more successful than advocates in other states.

Question 11

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food, and some people believe that the genetic modification of foods effects safety. Corporations that produce genetically modified foods point to hundreds of studies that show that they are safe. California voters will soon make a choice about GMO foods labels, and both sides are spending millions of dollars to influence their decisions. The result of the ballot initiative will reverberate throughout the nation.
Why have people initiated the effort to pass Proposition 37 and require genetically modified foods be labeled?

Accepted Answer

A)  Genetically modified foods are much cheaper, and consumers should be aware of the lower cost.
B)  Genetically modified foods are completely safe and labeling will point that out.
C)  Genetically modified foods are confusing for consumers and labels will add clarity.
D)  Some believe genetically modified foods are less safe than convention foods.

Question 12

"The California Right to Know Genetically Modified Food Act" known as Proposition 37 will require food manufacturers to label food with genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). If the bill passes, it will be the first law in the United States that required GMO labeling. Some European countries already mandate GMO labeling, but efforts to pass legislation in the United States have met resistance. Over a dozen other states have failed to pass proposed labeling laws. Food manufacturer argue that the bill is unnecessary because GMO are safe. They believe labeling will drive up food costs and will confuse consumers. Proponents of the legislation assert that consumers have a right to know what is in their food.
If Proposition 37 in California passes, what precedent will be established?

Accepted Answer

A)  Proposition 37 will represent the first time regular citizens have created and voted on a law.
B)  Proposition 37 will be the first law passed regarding food safety in California.
C)  Proposition 37 will be the first law in the United States requiring GMO labeling.
D)  Proposition 37 will be the most expensive law ever developed and passed in the United States.

Question 13

Although water covers approximately sixty-seven percent of the Earth's surface, less than three percent is fresh water. Accounting for fresh water locked in glaciers, icecaps, or otherwise inaccessible, less than a tenth of a percent of the Earth's water is available for human consumption. Pollution, population growth, and wasteful irrigation practices they are contributing to a worldwide water shortage. When the clear precious liquid becomes scarce, countries begin to assert claims on fresh water supplies. As a result, drinkable water has become a region of conflict that could eventually lead to greater hostilities between nations. In order to combat this issue many countries are adopting water conservation and security solutions. The United Nations has implemented programs to combat potential issues that could lead to violence.
What is the main idea of this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  It is important to conserve water because only 3% of the water on earth is drinkable.
B)  China's population suffers from water shortages.
C)  Most fresh water is "locked" in glaciers and ice caps.
D)  Water is limited and shortages will likely lead to conflicts.

Question 14

The World Wildlife Foundation recently reports that the number of monarch butterflies overwintering in Mexico has declined drastically. Although extreme drought conditions have dried up nectar plants monarch butterflies rely on for food. The destruction of their overwintering grounds also poses a considerate threat. Oyamel fir trees provide shelter to monarch butterflies they are also essential to the communities that surround the forests. In the past, residents used the wood for cooking and heating, but recently, they have began to sell it in order to support their livelihoods. As a result of logging oyamel fir trees, the habitat of the monarch butterfly population has shrunk.
Other than deforestation, what other environmental issue could be causing the decline in the monarch butterfly population?

Accepted Answer

A)  Air pollution from expanding population centers.
B)  A prolonged drought.
C)  An extended growing season brought on by heavy rain.
D)  Warmer temperatures throughout the winter months.

Question 15

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Palladium mining is an intricate process because it is spread out under the earth's surface. Mining palladium uses mechanical extraction methods that simplify the process. Makes it easier to get down into the Earth's crust. The reserves in the upper portions of the crust is becoming depleted, so miners have to dig deeper. Most palladium is in Russian, North America, South Africa, and South America. The largest North American palladium mine - Montana's Stillwater mine - is located in the United States. In South Africa, there is the largest proportion of palladium and platinum resource located mainly at the Bushveld Igeneous Complex.
What is the most likely reason palladium is owned and traded by investors?

Accepted Answer

A)  Jewelry manufacturers prefer to buy all of their precious metals from a single trader.
B)  Palladium and platinum are always sold together.
C)  Like gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is rare and valuable.
D)  Unlike gold or silver, palladium is used by many different types of manufacturers.

Question 16

The World Wildlife Foundation recently reports that the number of monarch butterflies overwintering in Mexico has declined drastically. When monarch butterflies arrive in Mexico from Canada and the United States, they converge on oyamel fir trees. The trees provide shelter to monarch butterflies they are also essential to the communities that surround the forests. In the past, residents used the wood for cooking and heating, but recently, they have began to sell it in order to support their livelihoods. Te destruction of their overwintering grounds also poses a considerate threat.
At what time of year are butterflies in Canada?

Accepted Answer

A)  Winter
B)  Spring
C)  Summer
D)  B and C
E)  A and B

Question 17

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Palladium mining is an intricate process because it is spread out under the earth's surface. Mining palladium uses mechanical extraction methods that simplify the process. Makes it easier to get down into the Earth's crust. The reserves in the upper portions of the crust is becoming depleted, so miners have to dig deeper. Most palladium is in Russian, North America, South Africa, and South America. The largest North American palladium mine - Montana's Stillwater mine - is located in the United States. In South Africa, there is the largest proportion of palladium and platinum resource located mainly at the Bushveld Igeneous Complex.
Why do palladium miners use mechanical processes to access the metal?

Accepted Answer

A)  It is cheaper to use mechanical mining technology.
B)  Mechanical mining technology is the most effective way to reach the palladium near the surface of the crust.
C)  Most of the palladium at the surface has been depleted, so mechanical mining is needed to dig deeper.
D)  Most palladium is mined in South Africa, where mechanical mining equipment is common.

Question 18

Although water covers approximately sixty-seven percent of the Earth's surface, less than three percent is fresh water. Accounting for fresh water locked in glaciers, icecaps, or otherwise inaccessible, less than a tenth of a percent of the Earth's water is available for human consumption. Pollution, population growth, and wasteful irrigation practices they are contributing to a worldwide water shortage. When the clear precious liquid becomes scarce, countries begin to assert claims on fresh water supplies. As a result, drinkable water has become a region of conflict that could eventually lead to greater hostilities between nations. In order to combat this issue many countries are adopting water conservation and security solutions. The United Nations has implemented programs to combat potential issues that could lead to violence.
Why are some countries adopting water conservation and security solutions?

Accepted Answer

A)  To avoid conflicts that arise when multiple countries assert claims on a single water source.
B)  To free water trapped in glaciers and polar ice caps.
C)  To compensate for population growth which is normally not controlled
D)  To satisfy rules set out by the United Nations

Question 19

Palladium, a soft shiny silvery-white metal, is one of six platinum group metals and is relatively rare. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Palladium often replaces platinum since it is cheaper, harder and lighter. It can be drawn into wire or hammered out into sheets, it is often mixed with gold for "white gold" jewelry. Palladium can also be used to make surgical instruments. Automobile manufacturers need the world's palladium for catalytic converters. Along with gold, silver, and platinum, palladium is a precious metal owned and traded by investors.
Which is a valid comparison supported by this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  Gold is more expensive than platinum.
B)  Silver, gold, platinum, and palladium are very similar.
C)  Gold is softer than palladium.
D)  Platinum is softer than palladium.

Question 20

Although water covers approximately sixty-seven percent of the Earth's surface, less than three percent is fresh water. Accounting for fresh water locked in glaciers, icecaps, or otherwise inaccessible, less than a tenth of a percent of the Earth's water is available for human consumption. Pollution, population growth, and wasteful irrigation practices they are contributing to a worldwide water shortage. When the clear precious liquid becomes scarce, countries begin to assert claims on fresh water supplies. As a result, drinkable water has become a region of conflict that could eventually lead to greater hostilities between nations. Some countries such as the United States, have ample sources of water. In other nations, such as China, water is less plentiful. As water resources dwindle, competition for available sources rose. In order to combat this issue, many countries are adopting water conservation and security solutions. The United Nations has implemented programs to combat potential issues that could lead to violence.
Which is a reasonable inference based on this passage?

Accepted Answer

A)  The potential for hostilities between nations over water is increasing.
B)  The United States is likely to engage in conflict over water with another nation.
C)  China and the United States are currently disputing a shared water source.
D)  The nations of the world rely on the United Nations to determine water use policies.

Exam 7: Technology: Palladium: Properties, Uses, and Mining Methods