Briefly describe key elements

Question 1

Ecosystem dynamics, including flows of energy and matter

Answer 1

• energy flows up the trophic levels of the Canning River ecosystems, most of which is lost as heat between the levels.
• The algae draw energy from the sun, and molluscs gain 10% of this energy through its consumption and this pattern is continued up the levels.
• Dead fauna and flora from all levels decompose and return energy to the producers as they break down.

Question 2

Carbon Cycle

Answer 2

• The carbon cycle natural system that involves the cycling of carbon atmosphere, land, and ocean.
• The carbon system consists of a range of sinks (capture and store carbon) and sources (processes that release carbon)
• Major sources include fossil fuels, which emit CO2 when burnt for energy
• Forests act as both source and sinks, as they naturally sequestrate co2 out of the air through photosynthesis and store it as carbon compounds (one tree 50% carbon)
  *trees are defrosted release co2 back into atmosphere e

Question 3

The Heat budget and greenhouse effect

Answer 3

• Earth’s climate is regulated by a delicate heat budget, balancing incoming and outgoing energy.
• 30% of solar energy is immediately reflected into space by clouds, particles, or reflective surfaces.
• 19% of solar energy is absorbed in the atmosphere, and 51% is absorbed by land and oceans.
• Absorbed energy is re-radiated as terrestrial long-wave radiation, with 70% being re-radiated into space.
• The natural greenhouse effect, involving gases like CO2 and methane, moderates atmospheric temperature by absorbing and re-radiating heat.
• Without the greenhouse effect, Earth would be much colder, making life impossible.
• imbalances can disrupt natural systems, and recent imbalances correlate with increased global temperatures and altered climate patterns.