Effects of natural change

Question 1

Day to night

Answer 1

The regular change from day to night has some complex and profound effects on both humans and outdoor environments. Once the sun has set, temperatures decrease on both land and in bodies of water such as oceans, lakes and rivers. This can lead to changes in the speed and direction of wind. Nocturnal animals become active and diurnal species, unable to function as well in darker conditions, may seek out nesting sites.

Question 2

Seasons

Answer 2

Indigenous Australians understand the seasons and the natural changes that occur throughout them and utilise them to their advantage. The movement of people across landscapes was often dictated by seasonal changes in particular regions. For example, prior to European settlers dominating the landscape, the Indigenous people of Victoria’s north-east would move to the river plain areas to take advantage of flowing water caused by snowmelt.

Question 3

Tides

Answer 3

Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the combined effects of the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the sun and the rotation of the Earth. As the moon circles the Earth, its gravity gently pulls the waters of our seas and oceans toward it.

Question 4

Flood

Answer 4

The effects of flood can sometimes be devastating to those who live and work in low-lying areas, with loss or damage to life and property. However, it is important to remember that flooding is part of the natural water cycle. Land that borders waterways such as rivers, creeks, lakes and swamps form a natural floodplain

Question 5

Migration

Answer 5

Migration occurs when species move from one location to another in response to changes in habitat. When the variation in habitat is predictable, so is the pattern of migration. The significance of migration is that animals move from one habitat to another, sometimes similar, as each is only suitable for part of their lives

Question 6

Sucession

Answer 6

Succession is the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time. Primary succession occurs after a major impact has been felt on an ecosystem, resulting in total destruction. A community will be established where it has never been before in a previously unvegetated, bare area. Coastal and rocky environments provide examples of primary succession. When succession occurs in an area that has been previously occupied by a community, it is referred to as secondary succession. This can occur after grazing, timber harvesting or fire, or another mass disturbance has cleared an area. Over time, the community that develops will be similar to the original community