In the following practice questions, you start by reading a short passage or studying a diagram, and then make some inference or conclusion based on that information.
Practice questions
The first question refers to the following excerpt from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety & Health Administration website.Chemicals have the ability to react when exposed to other chemicals or certain physical conditions. The reactive properties of chemicals vary widely and they play a vital role in the production of many chemical, material, pharmaceutical, and food products we use daily. When chemical reactions are not properly managed, they can have harmful, or even catastrophic consequences, such as toxic fumes, fires, and explosions. These reactions may result in death and injury to people, damage to physical property, and severe effects on the environment.
- Chemical reactions have proven to be a great asset to humanity, but there is a darker side to chemical reactions. What is it?
A. They can poison the food supply. B. They can have dire consequences if not handled properly. C. They can explode spontaneously. D. All of the above.
The next question refers to the following diagram, which is excerpted from The Sciences: An Integrated Approach, 3rd Edition, by James Trefil and Robert M. Hazen (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.).
- When methane (natural gas) burns, it produces light, heat, carbon dioxide, and water. Why would natural gas be a good choice for keeping your house warm in winter?
A. The chemical reaction produces carbon dioxide. B. The chemical reaction produces light. C. The chemical reaction produces water. D. The chemical reaction produces heat.
Answers and explanations
- The correct answer is Choice (D).
All of the choices are possible negative effects of chemical reactions.
- The correct answer is Choice (D).
In cold weather, you need a source of heat to warm your house, and methane produces heat in the chemical reaction. The other answers are incorrect.
