AP Env Sci Unit 1 & 2

Front

What is a climax community?

Back

A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached a steady state of development.

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A keystone species is a species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend; if it were removed, the ecosystem would change drastically.

Front

What cycle involves photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

Back

The Carbon Cycle.

Front

What role do volcanic activity and burning fossil fuels play in ecological cycles?

Back

They are significant contributors to the Carbon Cycle.

Front

What are pioneer species?

Back

Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize an area and begin the process of ecological succession.

Front

Define ecological succession.

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often following a disturbance.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the development of an ecosystem in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption.

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the process of ecosystem development that occurs in areas where soil is present but where an ecosystem has been disturbed.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available for plants.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of species and genetic diversity.