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Dark Needle Mound in the Sun

Sunlight falls on the dark needle mound and warms the needles packed inside. Opening and closing the round doorways lets warm air move, so the mound holds a steady temperature.

In the picture

  1. Dark needle surface on the sunny side, where the light lands.
  2. Round doorway on the sunny slope, standing open, with warm air curling out.
  3. Round doorway on the shaded slope, filled with a plug of packed needles.
  4. Air gap between needles inside the mound.

Examples

  • A compost heap stays warm inside even on a cold morning.
  • A dark stone bench feels hot after the sun has been on it.

Quiz: Dark Needle Mound in the Sun (Age 10)

  1. What does sunlight do when it falls on the dark needle mound?

    • It warms the needles inside the mound.
    • It cools the needles inside the mound.
    • It has no effect on the needles inside the mound.
  2. How do the round doorways help the mound keep a steady temperature?

    • They let warm air move in or out when needed.
    • They let sunlight shine directly on the inner needles.
    • They keep the needles from falling out of the mound.
  3. What is the purpose of a plug of packed needles in a doorway on the shaded slope?

    • It closes that doorway so warm air does not escape there.
    • It lets cool air enter so the mound cools down.
    • It lets more sunlight reach the shaded side.

The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.

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Age 10