The ocean water near the equator absorbs more heat throughout the year than ocean water near the North Pole. Which of the following best explains this difference?
OPTIONS:
- The equator is closer to the Sun.
- The equator has higher sea levels.
- The equator receives more direct sunlight.
- The equator rotates more quickly on Earth's axis.

The equator receives more direct sunlight.

Which of the following best describes a role of mushrooms in ecosystems?
OPTIONS:
- capturing energy from sunlight
- consuming living plant material
- taking energy from animal hosts
- breaking down dead plant material

breaking down dead plant material

Which statement correctly describes a relationship between two human body systems?
OPTIONS:
- The digestive system absorbs nutrients which are transported by the nervous system.
- The digestive system absorbs nutrients which are transported by the circulatory system.
- The circulatory system exchanges gases which are transported by the nervous system.
- The circulatory system exchanges gases which are transported by the digestive system.
The digestive system absorbs nutrients which are transported by the circulatory system.