Environmental Science Fall Exam Review

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What is genetic adaptation?

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Genetic adaptation refers to changes in the genetic makeup of a population that enhance its ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment.

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What is a climax community?

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A climax community is a stable and mature ecological community that has reached a steady state of development, typically characterized by a diverse array of species.

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What is primary succession?

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Primary succession is the process of ecological change that occurs in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat.

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What is genetic drift?

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Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population, often having a more significant effect in small populations.

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How does natural selection lead to speciation?

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Natural selection can lead to speciation when populations of the same species become isolated and adapt to different environmental conditions, resulting in the emergence of new species.

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What is the difference between biogenesis and abiogenesis?

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Biogenesis is the principle that living organisms arise from pre-existing life, while abiogenesis is the theory that life can arise from non-living matter.

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What is ecological succession?

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Ecological succession is the process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, involving a series of stages from pioneer species to a climax community.

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What is the role of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that can introduce new genetic variations, which may be beneficial, harmful, or neutral, and are a source of genetic diversity.

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What is the significance of biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, and it is crucial for ecosystem resilience, stability, and the provision of ecosystem services.

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What is the concept of carrying capacity?

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Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the habitat.