Unit 1 - Measuring abiotic factors - (Week 3)

Question 1

Explain how to ensure “reliability” and “validity” when sampling

Answer 1

Reliability - Reliability is ensured when sampling by taking multiple measurements.

Validity - Validity is ensured when sampling by having robust experimental design e.g. sampling each habitat within an area

Question 2

Compare and contrast “simple”, “systematic” and “stratified” sampling

Answer 2

Simple - Organisms sampled
randomly e.g. quadrats all
over a field

Systematic - Organisms sampled at
regular intervals e.g.
along a transect (eg every 2 blocks)

Stratified - Area is separated into
different habitats
(stratas) and samples
taken proportionally
from each (e.g beach, water, forest)

Question 3

Name at least 3 aquatic abiotic factors

Answer 3

Temperature, salinity, light intensity

Question 4

Name at least 3 terrestrial abiotic factors

Answer 4

Temperature, pH, light intensity

Question 5

Describe the effect of abiotic factors on the distribution of organisms

Answer 5

determining the environmental conditions in which species can survive and reproduce.

Question 6

What is an abiotic factor?

Answer 6

An abiotic factor is a non-living enviromental fcator that can affect the biodiversity of an ecosystem.