Science is all around us, from the smallest atom to the vast expanse of the universe. It's no surprise, then, that science trivia questions are a staple of any good trivia night. This post compiles ten must-know science trivia questions (and their answers) that cover a range of scientific disciplines, from physics and chemistry to biology and earth science. Consider this your crash course in science trivia – master these questions and answers, and you'll be well-prepared to impress your friends and take home the trivia crown.
What is the largest desert in the world?
Despite being covered in snow and ice, the Antarctic Desert is the world's largest. It's classified as a desert due to its extremely low precipitation.
At what temperature are Celsius and Fahrenheit equal?
This is a question you either know or you don't—unless you want to do some quick math. The answer is simply negative 40. Brrr!
What is the only rock that floats?
Rapid cooling of frothy lava creates pumice, a unique rock that is less dense than water and therefore buoyant.
What mountain peak is farthest from the center of the Earth?
Don't be tricked, it's not Mount Everest, it's Mount Chimborazo! Here's why: The Earth bulges at the equator due to its rotation. Though Mount Chimborazo in Ecuador is shorter than Everest in terms of elevation above sea level, its summit is farther from the Earth's center.
How many bones do sharks have in their bodies?
Sharks have no bones; their skeletons are made of cartilage, and their teeth (also not bone) are their hardest structures.
Which blood type is the most common in humans? Which is rarest?
Of the eight basic human blood types, O positive (35%) is the most common, and AB negative (1%) is the rarest.
What is the only planet in our solar system that spins clockwise?
Venus is the only planet that spins clockwise. Other key facts about Venus: its mass is most similar to Earth's, its day is nearly equivalent to an Earth year, and it's the hottest planet in our solar system (even hotter than Mercury) due to its dense, heat-trapping atmosphere.
What is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature?
Because of its consistent and measurable expansion and contraction with temperature changes, mercury (also known as quicksilver) is a liquid at room temperature and was historically used in thermometers and other scientific instruments.
Bronze is an alloy made of which two elements?
While bronze can be made from several alloys, the most common, or 'classic,' bronze is primarily composed of copper and tin.
What is the tallest type of grass? What is the fastest growing grass?
Bamboo is both the tallest and fastest-growing grass, capable of growing nearly three feet per day and reaching heights of up to 150 feet
What other science questions and answers would you include? Post in the comments below.