Environmental Science Concepts

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Ecosystem

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A community of living organisms (biotic) interacting with their physical environment (abiotic).

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Biosphere

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The global sum of all ecosystems, including all life on Earth and the environments in which they live.

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Biome

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A large area characterized by specific climate, plants, and animals, such as forests, deserts, and tundra.

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Biodiversity

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The variety of life in all forms, levels, and combinations, including ecosystem, species, and genetic diversity.

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Genetic Variation

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Differences in DNA sequences among individuals within a species.

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Biotic Factor

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A living component of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.

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Abiotic Factor

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A non-living component of an ecosystem, such as sunlight, temperature, and water.

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Invasive Species

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Non-native organisms introduced into an ecosystem that disrupt the balance by outcompeting native species.

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Habitat Alteration

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Changes to an environment caused by natural events or human activities, such as deforestation.

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Global Warming

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The increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily greenhouse gas emissions.