Quadrants

• What are abiotic factors?

  Non-living factors affecting organisms
• How do abiotic factors affect organisms?

  They influence the number of different organisms
• What technique do scientists use to determine the number of organisms in an area?

  Sampling
• What are the two methods of sampling mentioned?

  Random sampling and transect sampling
• What is a quadrat?

  A wooden or plastic square for sampling
• How is a quadrat used in random sampling?

  It is placed on the ground to count organisms
• What hypothesis might scientists investigate using random sampling?

  Fewer ferns are found in light than dark
• How do scientists ensure valid results in random sampling?

  By placing the quadrat multiple times
• Why is it important to sample a large number of random locations?

  To accurately represent the whole area
• What does the equation for estimating total population size involve?

  Total area divided by area sampled
• What is a transect?

  A line across a habitat for sampling
• How do scientists use a transect in sampling?

  By counting organisms at intervals along it
• What should be done to ensure valid results when sampling along a transect?

  Repeat the process multiple times
• What can be found in a real sand dune?

  Grasses, bushes, flowers, and trees
• How does sampling along a transect help in understanding ecosystems?

  It shows how species numbers change across habitats
• What are the steps involved in random sampling using a quadrat?

  • Place the quadrat randomly on the ground
  • Count the number of organisms inside
  • Repeat at multiple random locations
  • Calculate the average for valid results
• What are the steps involved in sampling along a transect?

  1. Place a transect line across the habitat
  2. Use a quadrat at set intervals along the line
  3. Count the organisms in each quadrat
  4. Repeat the process for valid data
• What factors should be considered when comparing light and dark conditions in plant sampling?

  • Light intensity
  • Type of plants present
  • Soil moisture levels
  • Temperature variations