Which of these is unique to the process of scientific investigation? OPTIONS:
- observing an event as it occurs
- discussing results with other experts
- publishing the results on a webpage
- collecting data in an experiment
A: collecting data in an experiment

A volcano under the ocean slowly releases lava over time. As the lava is released, it cools and hardens on the ocean floor. Which feature will most likely form from the release and cooling of the lava on the ocean floor over time? OPTIONS:
- a fault
- an island
- a reef
- a sandbar
A: an island

Natural processes cause rapid and slow changes to Earth's surface. Which event causes changes to Earth's surface most rapidly? OPTIONS:
- an earthquake shaking the ground
- sediment washing into a bay
- a rainstorm weathering rock
- water flowing in stream
A: an earthquake shaking the ground

Scientists use the term "light year" to describe OPTIONS:
- how fast light travels in space.
- the distance light travels in one year.
- how large the diameters of different stars are.
- the time it takes the Sun to move through the galaxy.
A:
the distance light travels in one year.