Question

1. the great barrier reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. it is located off of australia and is home to thousands of species of marine life. the reef is an important and a popular tourist destination. however, it faces threats from climate change, pollution, overfishing. what is the main idea of this text?a) it is the largest coral reef system in the world.b) it is a popular tourist destination.c) it is located off the coast of australia.d) the great barrier reef is a vital and threatened ecosystem.23. the process of the water cycle is essential for maintaining life on earth. it involves evaporation of water, the formation of clouds, and precipitation. this cycle replenishes sources and helps regulate the climate. the water cycle also supports plant and animal life. how does the water cycle support life on earth?a) it involves evaporation, clouds, and precipitation.b) it replenishes freshwater and regulates the climate.c) it is essential for maintaining life.d) it supports plant and animal life.24. the moons phases are caused by its position relative to the earth and the sun. as it orbits the earth, we see different portions of its illuminated side, leading to phases like new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. these phases repeat in a predictable cycle. what is the main idea of this text?a) the phases include new moon and full moon.b) the cycle of phases is predictable.c) the moons phases are caused by its position relative to the earth and sun.d) we see different portions of the moons illuminated side.

Explanation:

For Question 22:

The text first states the Great Barrier Reef's status as the largest coral reef, its location, biodiversity, and tourism value, then notes it faces threats. Option d summarizes both its value and threatened status, which covers the full main idea, while other options only cover single details.

For Question 23:

The question asks how the water cycle supports life. The text says it replenishes sources, regulates climate, and supports plant/animal life. Option b directly lists the specific supportive actions, while other options either describe the cycle's steps or restate the general importance without answering "how".

For Question 24:

The text opens with the core claim that the moon's phases are caused by its position relative to Earth and the sun, then explains the resulting phases and their regularity. Option c states this core causal claim, which is the main idea, while other options are supporting details.

Answer:

1. d. The Great Barrier Reef is a vital and threatened ecosystem.
2. b. It replenishes freshwater and regulates the climate.
3. c. The moon's phases are caused by its position relative to the Earth and sun.