1.3.1 Field Techniques

• What are field techniques in environmental research used for?

  Collecting data and observations
• Quadrats are used to sample and measure vegetation within a defined area.


  True
• Pitfall traps are used to sample ground-dwelling invertebrates
• What type of data do quadrats provide in environmental studies?

  Quantitative data
• Field techniques are essential for monitoring environmental systems and researching how they function
• Match the field technique with its purpose and advantage:

  Quadrats ↔️ Provides quantitative data on vegetation

  Transects ↔️ Surveys ecosystem changes along a gradient

  Pitfall traps ↔️ Captures ground-dwelling invertebrates
• Quadrats are used to measure vegetation within a defined area
• What type of invertebrates are commonly sampled using pitfall traps?

  Ground-dwelling
• What is the purpose of sampling in environmental studies?

  Make inferences
• Random sampling ensures unbiased representation of a population.


  True
• What are the two primary components of data collection and recording procedures?

  Data collection and recording
• What are some physical hazards researchers may encounter in the field?

  Uneven terrain, weather
• Organizations have legal obligations to provide a safe working environment for field researchers.


  True
• Field techniques are methods used by environmental scientists to collect data
• What are transects used for in environmental studies?

  Surveying ecosystem changes
• Order the steps typically followed in field research using quadrats

  1️⃣ Define the area to sample

  2️⃣ Place the quadrat randomly

  3️⃣ Identify and count plant species

  4️⃣ Record the data
• Transects are useful for studying gradual changes in an ecosystem.

  True
• What is the primary purpose of pitfall traps in environmental studies?

  Capturing invertebrates
• What are field techniques used for in environmental studies?

  Gathering data
• Transects are used to survey changes in an ecosystem along a gradient.


  True
• Field techniques are essential for monitoring and researching environmental systems
• Match the sampling method with its description:

  Random Sampling ↔️ Each individual has an equal chance of being selected

  Stratified Sampling ↔️ Population is divided into subgroups

  Systematic Sampling ↔️ Individuals are selected at regular intervals

  Cluster Sampling ↔️ Clusters of individuals are selected
• Cluster sampling is cost-effective for large populations spread across large areas
• Maintaining accuracy during data collection enhances the reliability of study findings.


  True
• Proper precautions are necessary to protect researchers from injury or illness
• How can compromised health or safety affect research findings?

  Errors or incomplete data