Env.Sys. Final

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What is the Nitrogen Cycle?

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The Nitrogen Cycle is the process by which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, including atmospheric nitrogen, organic nitrogen, and nitrogen in the soil. Bacteria play a crucial role in 'fixing' nitrogen from the atmosphere into a form that plants can use.

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What is solar energy?

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Solar energy is the energy derived from the sun's radiation. It is a renewable resource that does not need to be cycled in ecosystems because it is continuously available.

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What are K-selected species?

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K-selected species are organisms that produce fewer offspring but invest more time and resources in raising them. They typically provide parental care and have longer lifespans.

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What is a keystone species?

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A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. For example, the American alligator helps control the spread of vegetation and maintains the balance of fish species in its ecosystem.

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Why are insects important in ecosystems?

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Insects play vital roles in ecosystems by aerating soils, decomposing nutrients, and pollinating plants. However, they are not the biggest consumers of producers.

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What is the role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle?

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Bacteria help 'fix' atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, making it available for plants to absorb and use for growth.

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What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

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Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time (e.g., solar energy, water), while non-renewable resources exist in finite amounts and cannot be replaced once depleted (e.g., fossil fuels).

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What is an indicator species?

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An indicator species is a species whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition, often used to assess the health of an ecosystem.

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What is the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems?

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Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability. It allows ecosystems to adapt to changes and provides a wider range of resources.

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What are invasive species?

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Invasive species are non-native organisms that spread widely in a new habitat, often causing harm to native species and ecosystems.