Science

About the test

The GED^® Science test measures your knowledge of life science, physical science, and earth and space science. Questions are based on science-related passages, graphs, tables, charts, and diagrams. More than half of your science test may include visuals, which means you’ll spend as much time studying a chart or graph as you will reading a question.

It is 80 minutes long and contains 50 multiple choice questions from the following areas:

Physical science (physics and chemistry, 35%)
Life science (45%)
Earth and space science (20%)

Try a sample question

Choose the best possible answer.

Clay soil forms a fairly effective barrier against the movements of water. It also swells and shrinks significantly as its water content changes. Sandy soil, in contrast, allows water to move freely and does not change shape as the water content varies.

In which statement is the appropriate soil selected for its intended site?

Sandy soil would make a good lining for a toxic waste site.

Incorrect - Try again!

Clay soil would work well in a drain field.

Incorrect - Try again!

Clay soil would be a good foundation for a large building.

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Clay soil would form a good liner if a person built a pond.

Clay soil absorbs and holds more water than sandy soil. Its ability to swell or shrink as the water content changes should help to maintain the pond by retaining more water. Because of its shifting characteristics, clay soil would not be a good choice for building a stable foundation.

A sandy lake bottom would prevent water from seeping out of the lake.

Incorrect - Try again!