science Flashcards
What is an ecosystem, and how does it differ from a habitat?
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (biotic factors) interacting with their non-living environment (abiotic factors) in a specific area. A habitat, on the other hand, refers to the specific place or environment where an organism or species lives.
Describe the biotic and abiotic factors that make up an ecosystem
Biotic factors include all living organisms in the ecosystem, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Abiotic factors are non-living components, including soil, water, sunlight, temperature, and air quality.
Explain the concept of biodiversity and its importance in ecosystems.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in an ecosystem. It is important because greater biodiversity enhances ecosystem stability, resilience, and provides various ecological services, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control.
What are producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem, and how do they interact?
Producers are organisms (usually plants) that produce their food through photosynthesis. Consumers are organisms that feed on other organisms (plants or animals). Decomposers break down dead organic matter and recycle nutrients.
How do energy and matter flow through ecosystems? Explain the roles of producers and consumers in this process.
Energy flows through ecosystems in a one-way direction, primarily from producers (plants) to consumers (herbivores, carnivores). Matter, such as nutrients, is recycled through decomposers, returning to the soil or water.
What is a food chain, and how does it differ from a food web? Provide examples.
A food chain is a linear sequence that shows the transfer of energy and nutrients from one organism to another. A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem. Example: Grass → Rabbit → Fox.
Define and differentiate between primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers in a food chain.
Primary consumers (herbivores) feed directly on producers. Secondary consumers (carnivores) eat primary consumers. Tertiary consumers are top-level predators that feed on secondary consumers.
Explain the process of photosynthesis and its significance in ecosystems.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (energy-rich organic molecules). This process is crucial because it provides the foundation of the food chain by producing food and oxygen.
Describe the carbon and nitrogen cycles in ecosystems and their importance for life on Earth.
The carbon cycle involves the circulation of carbon through the atmosphere, plants, animals, and the Earth’s crust. The nitrogen cycle is the movement of nitrogen between the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms. Both cycles are essential for building organic molecules and maintaining ecosystem balance.
Explain how photosynthesis and cellular respiration are complementary to each other.
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are two fundamental biological processes that are complementary to each other in the carbon cycle.
Discuss the impact of human activities on ecosystems, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change.
Human activities have significant negative impacts on ecosystems, including habitat destruction through deforestation, pollution of air and water, and the disruption of natural systems due to climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
Explain the concept of ecological succession and provide examples of primary and secondary succession.
Ecological succession is the process of gradual change in the composition and structure of an ecosystem over time. Primary succession occurs on barren, lifeless surfaces, like volcanic rock. Secondary succession happens in areas where a disturbance, such as a fire or clear-cutting, has disrupted an existing ecosystem, but soil remains.
How do invasive species disrupt native ecosystems, and what can be done to mitigate their effects?
Invasive species disrupt native ecosystems by outcompeting native species, consuming resources, and altering habitat structure. Mitigation efforts include control measures like removal or biological control, as well as prevention strategies to limit the spread of invasive species.
Discuss the importance of conservation and sustainable practices in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Conservation and sustainability practices aim to protect and preserve ecosystems and biodiversity while meeting human needs. These practices include habitat preservation, sustainable resource management, and reducing ecological footprints.
What are the benefits and challenges of establishing protected areas and reserves for biodiversity conservation?
Benefits of protected areas include the preservation of biodiversity, scientific research opportunities, and ecotourism. Challenges include funding, enforcement, and conflicts with local communities.
