Ecosystems Flashcards
Definition of ecosystem
Ecosystems are communities of organisma that interact with one another and with their physical environment, including sunlight, rainfall, and soil nutrients.
Ecosystems can be further defined as systems into which matter flows. Matter also leaves ecosystems; however, this flow of matter into and out of the ecosystem is small compared with the amount of matter that cycles within the ecosystem.
Basic characteristics of ecosystems
1) it can change with time
Name some of the results of the human influnces on ecosystems.
Seemingly harmless or beneficial activities can wreak havok on the environment.
1) large-scale agricultural operations, although producing inexpensive food to feed millions, can result in the release of pesticides, fertilizers, and carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to the environment.
2) hydroelectric power is senn as a clean, renewable energy source.
However dam construction can have detrimental effects on river ecosystems, drastically reducing fish populations, as well as causing erosion of soil and vegetation during powerful water surges.
What effects can be caused from toxic chemicals?
Acid rain, resulting from emissions from power plants, automobiles, and industrial operations, also can have a significant effect on ecosystems.
