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Physical Science (Grade 8) Midterm — Semester 2, Form B

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Science Grade 8 15 multiple choice + 1 written

Free printable Physical Science midterm (Grade 8): 15 multiple-choice questions plus 1 written response covering Forces & Motion, Energy, Waves, Electricity & Magnetism. Answer key included — customize it in the Midterm Maker.

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Physical Science (Grade 8) Midterm — Semester 2, Form B
Name: Date: Period:

Directions: Read each question carefully and choose the best answer. Answer the written response in complete sentences.

Covers: Forces & Motion · Energy · Waves, Electricity & Magnetism

Part 1: Multiple Choice

  1. Which statement describes Newton's first law of motion?
    1. A. An object keeps its motion unless an unbalanced force acts on it
    2. B. Force equals mass times acceleration
    3. C. Heavier objects always fall faster
    4. D. Every action has an equal and opposite reaction
  2. A swimmer pushes water backward and moves forward. Which law does this show?
    1. A. Newton's second law
    2. B. Newton's first law
    3. C. Newton's third law
    4. D. The law of conservation of mass
  3. A car speeds up from 0 m/s to 20 m/s in 4 seconds. What is its acceleration?
    1. A. 5 m/s²
    2. B. 24 m/s²
    3. C. 16 m/s²
    4. D. 80 m/s²
  4. Which force opposes motion between two surfaces that are touching?
    1. A. Magnetism
    2. B. Gravity
    3. C. Buoyancy
    4. D. Friction
  5. What net force is needed to accelerate a 10 kg cart at 2 m/s²?
    1. A. 5 N
    2. B. 8 N
    3. C. 12 N
    4. D. 20 N
  6. Using GPE = mgh with g = 9.8 m/s², what is the potential energy of a 5 kg object 10 m above the ground?
    1. A. 50 J
    2. B. 98 J
    3. C. 490 J
    4. D. 4,900 J
  7. The energy of a moving object is called what?
    1. A. Chemical energy
    2. B. Kinetic energy
    3. C. Nuclear energy
    4. D. Potential energy
  8. At which point does a roller coaster car have the most gravitational potential energy?
    1. A. Halfway down the first hill
    2. B. At the lowest point of the track
    3. C. While moving fastest at the bottom
    4. D. At the top of the highest hill
  9. What energy change happens in a solar panel?
    1. A. Chemical energy to light energy
    2. B. Thermal energy to chemical energy
    3. C. Electrical energy to light energy
    4. D. Light energy to electrical energy
  10. How does energy from the Sun reach Earth through space?
    1. A. Convection
    2. B. Conduction
    3. C. Friction
    4. D. Radiation
  11. Which type of electromagnetic wave carries the most energy?
    1. A. Microwaves
    2. B. Gamma rays
    3. C. Visible light
    4. D. Radio waves
  12. How can you make an electromagnet stronger?
    1. A. Use fewer coils of wire
    2. B. Add more coils of wire
    3. C. Remove the iron core
    4. D. Reduce the electric current
  13. A wave has a frequency of 5 Hz and a wavelength of 2 m. What is its speed?
    1. A. 2.5 m/s
    2. B. 7 m/s
    3. C. 0.4 m/s
    4. D. 10 m/s
  14. What is the highest point of a transverse wave called?
    1. A. Crest
    2. B. Trough
    3. C. Frequency
    4. D. Wavelength
  15. Using V = I × R, what current flows through a 4 Ω resistor connected to 12 V?
    1. A. 3 A
    2. B. 8 A
    3. C. 16 A
    4. D. 48 A

Part 2: Written Response

  1. Trace the energy changes on a playground swing or roller coaster. Explain how energy is conserved even though the ride eventually slows down.

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