B7 Flashcards
ecology
What are the 5 processes in the carbon cycle?
photosynthesis
feeding
respiration
decomposition
combustion
Describe photosynthesis in the carbon cycle.
CO2 is removed from the atmosphere by green plants and algae during photosynthesis. This CO2 is the used to make glucose.
Describe feeding in the carbon cycle.
Animals eat the plants and get carbon in their food.
Describe respiration in the carbon cycle.
Plants and animals release CO2 back into the air during respiration.
Describe decomposition in the carbon cycle.
When animals and plants die, decomposers (bacteria and fungi) break them down. This releases CO2 into the air through respiration.
Describe combustion in the carbon cycle.
Burning fossil fuels releases CO2 into the atmosphere.
What causes materials to decay?
Microorganisms.
Define habitat.
The place where an organism lives
Define population.
All the organisms of one species living in a habitat.
Define community.
The populations of different species living in a habitat.
What are ABIOTIC factors?
Non-living factors of the environment
What are BIOTIC factors?
Living factors of the environment
What is an ecosystem?
The interaction of a community of living organisms with the non-living organisms of the community.
Give 3 things plants compete for in an ecosystem.
- light
- space
- water
- mineral ions
Give 3 things animals compete for in an ecosystem.
- territory
- food
- water
- mates
Define interdependence
Each species depend on other species in a community.
Give 4 examples of abiotic factors.
- moisture level
- light intensity
- temperature
- wind intensity
- oxygen level
- soil pH
Give 4 examples of biotic factors that can AFFECT THE SIZE OF A POPULATION.
- new predators
- competition
- availability of food
- new pathogens
What are the 3 different adaptations of organisms?
- structural
- behavioural
- functional
Describe a STRUCTURAL adaptation of an organism
The organism’s body structure. For example, shape or colour.
Describe a BEHAVIOURAL adaptation of an organism.
The way an organism behaves. For example, species migrating to a warmer climate during the winter.
Describe a FUNCTIONAL adaptation of an organism.
Things that go on inside of an organism’s body that can be related to processes like reproduction and metabolism. For example, hibernation for bears or desert animals conserving water.
What are extremophiles?
Organisms that are adapted to live in very extreme conditions.
