Chapter 5 Environmental Systems and Ecosystem Ecology

Question 1

System

Answer 1

Network of relationships among parts, elements, or components that interact with and influence one another through exchange of energy, matter, and information

Question 2

Feedback loop

Answer 2

Output of system is also its input

Question 3

Negative feedback loop

Answer 3

Output as input drives system other way

Question 4

Positive feedback loop

Answer 4

Output as input drives system in same direction

Question 5

Emergen properties

Answer 5

Characteristics not evident in components alone. Sum greater than whole

Question 6

Airshed

Answer 6

Geographic area that produces air pollutants that are likely to end up in a waterway

Question 7

Eutrophication

Answer 7

Process of nutrient over-enrichment, blooms of algae, increased production of organic matter, and subsequent ecosystem degradation

Question 8

Estuary

Answer 8

Waterbody where rivers flow into ocean, mixing fresh with salt water

Question 9

Nutrients

Answer 9

Elements and compounds that organisms consume and require for survival

Question 10

Macro vs micro nutrients

Answer 10

large amounts; small amounts

Question 11

Ecotones

Answer 11

Areas where ecosystems meet and consist of transitional zones

Question 12

Metapopulation

Answer 12

Members that move/mate between patches of landscape

Question 13

Ecosystem services examples

Answer 13

Regulate oxygen, CO2; prevent soil erosion; cycle nutrients; pollination; tourism