TASK DEFINITION: In this task you will be given a text passage from a trivia quiz. You should choose the category this question belongs to from these categories: History, Science, Social Science, Fine Arts, Literature. You can only choose one category, so if in doubt, please choose the closest match.
PROBLEM: The Fraunhofer lines of the Sun's electromagnetic spectrum contain a D-line, sometimes known as a ""doublet,"" produced by transitions in this element's family but traditionally named after this element. This metal is currently made using the Downs Cell. When it is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors, the radioactive 24 isotope of this element is formed. It produces a bright (*) yellow flame when heated. This is the second-lightest alkali metal after lithium. For 10 points, identify this metal whose chloride is table salt.

SOLUTION: Science

PROBLEM: The name of one character created by this author was used as a pseudonym by Charles P. Jacobs in a letter accusing Thomas Hardy of plagiarism. That character is introduced as a half-drowned body being carried into the Black Lion Inn. In addition to Timothy Crabshaw, this author wrote of a figure who tries to seduce Monimia by throwing Count Melvil under the bus, and about Tom Bowlings service on the HMS Thunder. This author of Launcelot Greaves and Ferdinand, Count Fathom wrote a novel in which Thomas Pipes is sent by Commodore Trunion to help a man who eventually marries Emilia Gauntlet, and another Lydia Melford and Letitia Lewis carry on a similar friendship through letters as Dr. Richard Lewis does with Matthew Bramble. For 10 points, name this author of Peregrine Pickle, Roderick Random, and Humphrey Clinker.

SOLUTION: Literature

PROBLEM: This rulers chief justice was Shigi Qutuqu, and he also appointed the minister Yel Chucai. An account of travels to this rulers court was published as the Journey to the West of the Taoist monk Kiu Chang Chun. This promulgator of the Yasa law code was served by the general Jebe, who died soon after a victory at the Battle of the Kalka River. A prime source for this rulers life is a Secret History, and he rose to power by allying with the Kerait ruler Toghrul before fighting a power struggle with Jamuka. This ruler conquered the Khwarezmid Empire and invaded the Tangut kingdom of Western Xia. This mans general Subotai would go on to serve his son and successor, Ogdi. For 10 points, name this conqueror, born Temjin, who united the steppe tribes and founded the Mongol Empire.

SOLUTION:
History