Human Impact Practice Flashcard

Front

What is biomagnification?

Back

Biomagnification is the process by which the concentration of toxins increases in organisms as they consume other plants or animals that contain those toxins.

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What is eutrophication?

Back

Eutrophication is the process where water bodies become enriched with nutrients (like nitrogen) leading to excessive growth of algae, which can deplete oxygen in the water.

Front

How does decomposing algae affect aquatic life?

Back

As algae decomposes, it uses up oxygen in the water, which reduces the amount available for other organisms, potentially leading to their death.

Front

What is the consequence of Japan and Norway continuing whaling despite a global ban?

Back

The whale populations are not rebounding as quickly as they might if all countries agreed not to hunt whales.

Front

What is the impact of a reduced gene pool in a population?

Back

A reduced gene pool can make a population more vulnerable to environmental changes and reduce its ability to adapt.

Front

What does it mean that ecosystems are interconnected?

Back

It means that changes or pollution in one ecosystem can affect other ecosystems, demonstrating the impact of human actions on the environment.

Front

What is point-source pollution?

Back

Point-source pollution refers to contaminants that enter a waterway from a single, identifiable source, such as a pipe or a ditch.

Front

What is artificial eutrophication?

Back

Artificial eutrophication is the accelerated growth of algae in water bodies due to human activities, such as the runoff of fertilizers.

Front

What are the effects of plastic waste in ecosystems?

Back

Plastic waste can harm wildlife, disrupt food chains, and alter the natural balance of ecosystems.

Front

What is the role of nitrogen in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Nitrogen is a nutrient that can promote plant growth, but excessive amounts can lead to harmful algal blooms and eutrophication.