Each of these images represents a cycle. Use these examples to select the best definition of the word cycle.

Question

Four cycle diagrams: 1. A simplified illustration of the water cycle. Arrows show water rising from the ocean, forming clouds, returning to Earth as rain, and then running off into the ocean. 2. A digram showing the life cycle of T. gondii parasite. A cat eats a mouse infected with the parasite, the parasite grows in the cat, and a mouse eats the parasite in cat poop. Arrows connect each phase to the next. 3. A diagram showing the life cycle of an apple tree. Each stage (flower, fruit, seed, sprout, tree, flower, fruit, etc.) is connected by an arrow to the next. 4. A diagram of the lunar cycle. Four moon phases (new moon, first quarter, full moon, third quarter) are shown as the Moon orbits the Earth. Arrows connect each phase to the next.

A
A group of closely-related objects or ideas

B
A period of time that can be identified by a set of activities

C
A set of unrelated events that influence each other over time

D
A series of events that occur over and over in a specific order
2
Based on your answer to Question 1, why can’t this image be considered a cycle?

A sequence of five images showing the transformation of a popcorn kernel into a fluffy popcorn piece.

A
The image does not show a living thing

B
The change is too simple and needs more steps

C
This is a one-time transformation that does not repeat

D
There is no clear beginning or end to the process shown
3
Like water and carbon, Earth’s rocks also go through a cycle. What can you conclude from this information?

A
Rocks are the oldest material on Earth

B
Rocks are constantly transformed and recycled

C
Rocks are the most abundant material on Earth

D
Rocks are made of the same elements as water and carbon
4
Bread, pizza, and pies have crusts. Consider the characteristics and location of the crust on each food. Then, determine which layer in the diagram represents Earth’s crust.

A diagram showing a cross-section of Earth and four distinct layers. The thinnest, outermost layer is labeled "A," the next layer in is labeled "B," and the last two layers are labeled "C" and "D," respectively.

A
A

B
B

C
C

D
D

Answer 1

1. The best definition of the word cycle based on the provided images is:

D. A series of events that occur over and over in a specific order.

This definition fits well with the examples given, which involve repetitive processes such as the water cycle, life cycles, and lunar phases.

2. This image cannot be considered a cycle because:

C. This is a one-time transformation that does not repeat.

The transformation of a popcorn kernel into a fluffy popcorn piece is not a cyclical process; it's a one-time occurrence.

3. From the information that Earth’s rocks go through a cycle, we can conclude that:

B. Rocks are constantly transformed and recycled.

This indicates that rocks undergo processes that change them over time, similar to other cycles in nature.

4. Considering the characteristics and location of the crust on bread, pizza, and pies, the layer in the diagram that represents Earth’s crust is:

A. A.

Since the crust is the outermost layer of Earth, it corresponds to the thin outer layer in the diagram labeled "A."