Scientific Method and Ecosystems Flashcards
Powerpoint #1
What is the definition for the scientific method?
A process of experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions.
What are the steps to the scientific method?
1.Question
2.Research
3.Hypothesis
4.Test
5.Analyze Data
6.Conclusion
What do you need when conducting an experiment?
A testable question that is not subjective, sample size, control group, ability to collect data and analyze it.
What is the biosphere?
The thin layer around Earth’s surface where life is supported.
The biosphere is a closed system in terms of…
Materials. There a a finite amount of materials on the planet meaning they must be recycled.
The biosphere is infinite in terms of..
Energy. We receive an endless amount of energy from the sun.
What are ecosystems?
A community of biological organisms plus the non-living components in an area and how they interact.
What is abiotic components of an ecosystem? What are some examples?
Abiotic is defined as nonliving components. Examples are: air, temperature, water, rocks and sunlight.
What is the definition of “biotic components” in an ecosystem. What are some examples?
Biotic components are living organisms. In order to qualify as a living organism you have to be able to grow, have cells, respond to stimuli, reproduce, contain DNA, and require energy. Some examples are: plants, animals, and small organisms.
Who developed the classification system for the organisms within an ecosystem?
Carl Linnaeus
What are species?
A species is a group of related organisms that when bred produce the same type of organism that is then able to breed again.
What is a niche?
A niche is a species place in the community defined by its influence on competitors, the space it requires, the type and amount of food it consumes, the timing of its reproduction and temperature and moisture requirements.
What is a population?
A group of organisms of the same species living in the same region.
What is a community?
Groups of populations in a specific area.
What is a food chain?
A linear representation of the organisms within an ecosystem.
What is a trophic level?
Each level of the food chain.
Who makes up the first trophic level in a food chain?
The producer or autotroph. Organisms that make their own food through photosynthesis.
Who makes up the second trophic level in a food chain?
Primary consumers or herbivores. They gain their energy from eating plants.
Who makes up the third trophic level?
Secondary consumers or carnivores. They feed on the primary consumers.
Who makes up the fourth trophic level in a food chain?
Tertiary consumers; they feed on the secondary consumers.
Who makes up the fifth trophic level in a food chain?
Quaternary consumers; they feed on the tertiary consumers.
What happens when an organism dies in the food chain?
Decomposers like bacteria, fungi, or detritivores such as worms and vultures help break down the organic material and release the chemicals back into the environment.
What is the difference between decomposers and detritivores?
Decomposers are able to break down a larger range of organic molecules.
Why is the detritus food chain important?
It helps recycle the nutrients needed by the autotrophs to grow.
