Biology Ecology

• What is the role of the Sun in ecosystems?

  It is a source of energy.
• How are materials like carbon and water recycled in ecosystems?

  Through respiration and photosynthesis.
• What is interdependence in an ecosystem?

  Species depend on each other for survival.
• What happens if one species is removed from a community?

  It can affect the whole community.
• What are abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

  Non-living components affecting organisms.
• Name two abiotic factors that can affect a community.

  Light intensity and temperature.
• What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

  Living components affecting organisms.
• What are adaptations in organisms?

  Features that enable survival in environments.
• What are extremophiles?

  Organisms living in extreme environments.
• What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

  They synthesize biomass through photosynthesis.
• What is a food chain?

  A representation of feeding relationships.
• What do primary consumers eat?

  Producers like plants and algae.
• What is the relationship between predators and prey?

  Predators eat prey in a cycle.
• What is the carbon cycle's role in ecosystems?

  It recycles carbon for photosynthesis.
• What does the water cycle provide for ecosystems?

  Fresh water for plants and animals.
• How do microorganisms contribute to ecosystems?

  They recycle materials like carbon and minerals.
• What factors affect the rate of decay of biological material?

  Temperature, water, and oxygen availability.
• What is anaerobic decay?

  Decay without oxygen producing methane.
• What is the impact of environmental changes on species distribution?

  They can alter where species thrive.
• What are the key components of an ecosystem?

  • Biotic factors (living organisms)
  • Abiotic factors (non-living components)
  • Interdependence among species
  • Competition for resources
  • Energy flow through food chains
• What are the main cycles in ecosystems and their importance?

  • Carbon cycle: Recycles carbon for photosynthesis
  • Water cycle: Provides fresh water for life
  • Nutrient cycling: Supplies essential minerals
• What are the effects of competition in ecosystems?

  • Limits population sizes
  • Drives natural selection
  • Influences species distribution
• What are the adaptations organisms may have?

  • Structural adaptations (physical features)
  • Behavioral adaptations (actions)
  • Functional adaptations (internal processes)
• What is the significance of a stable community?

  • Maintains balanced population sizes
  • Supports biodiversity
  • Ensures ecosystem resilience
• What is produced during anaerobic decay?

  Methane gas
• How can biogas generators be used?

  To produce methane gas as fuel
• What is the required practical activity related to decay of fresh milk?

  • Investigate temperature's effect on decay rate
  • Measure pH change
  • Skills covered: AT 1, 3, 4, 5
• What are the environmental changes affecting species distribution?

  Temperature, water availability, atmospheric gas composition
• How can environmental changes be categorized?

  Seasonal, geographic, or human-caused
• What is biodiversity?

  The variety of different species of organisms
• Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

  It reduces dependence on one species
• What human activities are reducing biodiversity?

  Waste, deforestation, and global warming
• How does waste management affect biodiversity?

  Improper handling causes pollution, reducing biodiversity
• What types of pollution can occur?

  Water, air, and land pollution
• How does land use impact biodiversity?

  Reduces land available for plants and animals
• What is the impact of peat bog destruction?

  Reduces habitat area and biodiversity
• What are the implications of deforestation?

  Provides land for agriculture and biofuels
• What gases contribute to global warming?

  Carbon dioxide and methane
• What is the scientific consensus about global warming?

  Based on systematic reviews of publications
• What are some programs to maintain biodiversity?

  Breeding programs and habitat protection