ecology and key ideas

Question 1

Ecosystem definition?

Answer 1

Interaction of a community of living organisms (biotic) with the non- living organisms (abiotic) parts of their environment

Question 2

Community definition?

Answer 2

Organisms in an ecosystem

Question 3

Interdependence meaning?

Answer 3

In a community, species depend on each other for food, shelter, pollination etc.
- one species removed? can affect whole environment.
- stable environment? species and environmental factors in balance.

Question 4

Extremophiles definition?

Answer 4

organisms that live in extreme environments

Question 5

Carbon Cycle?

Answer 5

Release carbon dioxide?
- respiration and decompostition
- combustion of fossil fuels
Take in carbon dioxide?
- photosynthesis
Transfer carbon dioxide?
- feeding

Question 6

Water Cycle?

Answer 6

1) Evaporation/Transpiration
2) Condensation
3) Precipitation
4) Surface Runoff/ Subsurface runoff
5) Accumulation

Question 7

Biodiversity definition?

Answer 7

• variety of all the different species of organisms on Earth or within an ecosystem

ensures stable community in ecosystems
future of human species relies on it

Question 8

Food security definition?

Answer 8

Having enough good to feed a population

Question 9

Decay?

Answer 9

Decomposers (bacteria) break down dead plant and animal matter by secreting enzymes into the environment.
small soluble food molecules then diffuse into the microorganism.

Question 10

optimum conditions for decay?

Answer 10

• high moisture level
• high oxygen availability
• not too hot, not too cold temperature (warm)

Question 11

Equation for efficiency of pyramid of biomass?

Answer 11

Efficiency= useful output / useful input x 100

Question 12

Anaerobic decay?

Answer 12

• produces methane gas
• created in biogas generators to be used as fuels