WGU Integrated Physical Sciences (MTC1) WGU (MTC1) Integrated Physical Sciences Exam Questions

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Total 70 questions
Question 1

An electron is transferred from one atom to another.

Which type of bond is formed?



Answer : C

When an electron is transferred from one atom to another, an ionic bond is formed. This type of bond occurs between a metal and a non-metal where one atom donates an electron to another, resulting in the formation of positive and negative ions that attract each other. In comparison:

Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.

Elemental bonds is not a standard term in chemistry.

Metallic bonds involve the sharing of free electrons among a lattice of metal atoms.


Integrated Physical Sciences Learning Resources, Chapter on Chemical Bonds

Question 2

Why do comets develop tails when they are near the Sun?



Answer : A

As comets approach the Sun, the increased solar radiation causes the ice within the comet to evaporate (a process called sublimation), releasing gas and dust particles. This creates a visible atmosphere called a coma, and the solar wind then blows this material away from the comet, forming a tail. The tail always points away from the Sun due to the force of the solar wind. Reference:

NASA's Comet Exploration Missions

'Cometary Physics' - European Space Agency Publications


Question 3

On Tuesday morning, it was cool and clear. On Tuesday afternoon, light rain and fog occurred. On Wednesday morning, it was warmer and clear.

What caused the change in weather from Tuesday morning to Wednesday morning?



Answer : C

The weather change from cool and clear in the morning to light rain and fog in the afternoon, followed by warmer and clear conditions the next morning, is indicative of a warm front passing through the area. A warm front occurs when a warm air mass moves over a cold air mass, causing the warm air to rise and condense, leading to precipitation. After the front passes, the area experiences warmer temperatures and clearing skies.


Integrated Physical Sciences resources on weather fronts and their effects.

Meteorological studies on the impact of warm fronts on local weather patterns.

Question 4

Hail falls into the ocean.

Between which two reservoirs is the hail transferred during this process?



Answer : C

Hail is a form of solid precipitation that originates in the atmosphere. When hail falls into the ocean, it is transferred from the atmosphere (where it formed) to the surface water reservoir (the ocean). This process is part of the hydrological cycle, which involves the movement of water between different reservoirs, including the atmosphere, surface water, ground water, and glaciers.


Integrated Physical Sciences materials on precipitation and the hydrological cycle.

Studies on the movement of water between atmospheric and surface water reservoirs.

Question 5

Kepler discovered that planets move in elliptical paths around the sun. Repeated observations have confirmed Kepler's finding.

Which type of scientific statement is Kepler's discovery?



Answer : C

Kepler's discovery that planets move in elliptical paths around the sun is an example of a scientific law. A scientific law describes a relationship in nature that has been consistently observed to be true. Kepler's laws of planetary motion describe the predictable patterns of planetary orbits, which have been repeatedly confirmed through observation. Reference:

Integrated Physical Sciences, Chapter 4: Scientific Laws and Theories


Question 6

A system of underground pipes heated by Earth s hot interior creates steam from water, which generates heat for a building.

Which type of energy source is harnessed in this scenario?



Answer : B

The scenario describes a geothermal energy system. Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from the Earth's interior to generate steam, which can then be used to produce electricity or provide direct heating. In this case, underground pipes circulate water that is heated by the Earth's internal heat, turning it into steam to generate heat for a building. Reference:


Question 7

Which layer of the atmosphere would an atmospheric scientist be investigating if the scientist were studying the formation of clouds?



Answer : D

The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere where weather phenomena, including cloud formation, occur.

Atmospheric scientists study cloud formation and other weather-related processes within this layer. Reference:

Integrated Physical Sciences resources on atmospheric layers and weather processes.


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