U1- Battle for the Biosphere Flashcards
What 4 factors affect what type of biome is where?
- Temperature.
- Rainfall/Precipitation.
- Sunshine hours.
- Humidity.
(Also whether it freezes and the length of growing seasons).
Define biosphere.
Zone where life is found.
The biosphere extends 3m below ground, 30m above and 200m in the sea.
What 3 local factors influence plant growth in biomes?
- Altitude.
- Drainage.
- Soil.
Name TWO examples of biomes, other than tropical rainforest.
- Desert.
- Tundra.
How does temperature affect the global distribution of biomes?
Temperature varies with the seasons and effects the length of the growing season.
Temperature gradually decreases as you move further away from the Equator.
How does precipitation affect the global distribution of biomes?
A forest with a large biomass needs a lot of rainfall, the rain must also be throughout the year.
How do sunshine hrs affect the global distribution of biomes?
Sunshine hrs determine the amount of light available for use in photosynthesis.
How does humidity affects the global distribution of biomes?
Humidity controls the rate of evapotranspiration.
Describe two characteristics of a marine climate and what type of biome might grow in such a climate.
- Smaller annual temperature range.
- More precipitation.
- Tropical biomes.
Describe two characteristics of a continental climate and which types of biomes might grow in such a climate.
- Bigger annual temperature range.
- Less precipitation.
- Tundras, Deserts.
- Mediterranean and Deciduous forests
Define pressure belts.
Regions of the atmosphere, running parallel to the Equator.
Precipitation is found in areas of low-pressure.
The pattern of pressure belts changes with the seasons.
How does altitude influence plant growth in biomes?
Altitude controls both temperature and rainfall.
The temperature decreases by 1°C for every 200m of altitude.
The higher the altitude, the higher the rainfall.
How does drainage influence plant growth in biomes?
Marshes and swamps are found in areas with impermeable rock.
How does soil influence plant growth in biomes?
Thin soils will not support much plant life.
Areas of alkali soils (chalk and limestone) have more ash and beech trees.
Areas of acidic have more birch and willow.
Define services.
Things that satisfy our needs.
Define goods.
Products that are of value to us.