biology revision Flashcards
What is an eco system?
An ecosystem is all the living organisms (community) and their environment (abiotic and biotic factors).
what is a habitat?
A habitat is where an organism lives.
what is an adaption
An adaptation is a feature or structure or behaviour of an organism that allows it to survive in its environment or reproduce better. This prevents organisms from going extinct.
what are abiotic factors?
Abiotic factors are non-living conditions which can influence the distribution
what are light meters?
Light meters can be used to measure light intensity. The meter is held at the soil surface, pointed in the direction of the maximum light and the meter is read. Errors can be made when measuring light intensity by accidentally shading the light meter. Results can be made more reliable by taking many samples.
how can soil moisture and soil ph be measured?
Soil moisture and soil pH meters can be measured by simply pushing the probes of the meter into the soil and reading the correct scale on the meter. Errors can be made when measuring these abiotic factors if the soil moisture or pH meter probes are not cleaned between readings. As always the results can be made more reliable by taking many samples.
what are biotic factors?
Biotic factors are living conditions which can influence the distribution
what are quadrats?
A quadrat is usually a square made of wire. It may contain further wires to mark off smaller areas inside, such as 5 × 5 squares or 10 × 10 squares. The organisms underneath, usually plants, can be identified and counted. Quadrats may also be used for slow-moving animals, e.g. slugs and snails.
what are pitfall traps?
Pitfall traps are often used to sample the small invertebrates living on the ground. They are likely to ground dwelling invertebrates like spiders, insects and slugs
what is a pooter?
A pooter is a small jar used for collecting insects. It has two tubes - one goes into your mouth so you can apply suction, and the other goes over the insect so that is sucked into the jar.
what are sweeping nets?
Sweep nets are useful for collecting insects and other small animals from bushes, long grass and ponds.
what are choice chambers used for?
A choice chamber can be used to find out if animals (e.g. woodlice) prefer e.g. wet or dry conditions.
what is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants make their own food (glucose –a sugar) and oxygen, using carbon dioxide and water with the help of sunlight and chlorophyll.
