NEW YORK STATE REGENTS EXAMS
LIVING ENVIRONMENT - JUNE 2002

1 The current knowledge concerning cells is the result of the investigations
and observations of many scientists. The work of these scientists forms a
well-accepted body of knowledge about cells. This body of knowledge is an
example of a

(1) hypothesis
(2) controlled experiment
(3) theory
(4) research plan

2 An experimental design included references from prior experiments, materials
and equipment, and step-by-step procedures. What else should be included
before the experiment can be started?

(1) a set of data
(2) a conclusion based on data
(3) safety precautions to be used
(4) an inference based on results

3 In his theory, Lamarck suggested that organisms will develop and pass on
to offspring variations that they need in order to survive in a particular
environment. In a later theory, Darwin proposed that changing environmental
conditions favor certain variations that promote the survival of organisms.
Which statement is best illustrated by this information?

(1) Scientific theories that have been changed are the only ones
supported by scientists.
(2) All scientific theories are subject to change and improvement.
(3) Most scientific theories are the outcome of a single hypothesis.
(4) Scientific theories are not subject to change.

4 The dense needles of Douglas fir trees can prevent most light from reaching
the forest floor. This situation would have the most immediate effect on

(1) producers      (3) herbivores
(2) carnivores      (4) decomposers

5 Which statement best describes a characteristic of an ecosystem?

(1) It must have producers and consumers but not decomposers.
(2) It is stable because it has consumers to recycle energy.
(3) It always has two or more different autotrophs filling the same niche.
(4) It must have organisms that carry out autotrophic nutrition.

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