Unit 4: Climate Impacts on the Biosphere

Front

What is the impact of deforestation on sunlight availability in a rainforest?

Back

Deforestation increases sunlight availability for the plants and animals beneath the trees, as fewer trees mean less shade.

Front

How do algal blooms affect oxygen levels in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Algal blooms can decrease oxygen levels in water, leading to hypoxic conditions that harm aquatic life, including zooplankton.

Front

What role do wetlands play in flood protection for nearby areas?

Back

Wetlands act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall and protecting adjacent land from flooding.

Front

What is an inference in scientific observation?

Back

An inference is a conclusion drawn from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.

Front

What is a consumer in a food web?

Back

A consumer is an organism that obtains energy by feeding on other organisms, such as plants or animals.

Front

Define algal bloom.

Back

An algal bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often due to nutrient overload.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems?

Back

Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing ecosystems to better withstand changes.

Front

How do wetlands contribute to water quality?

Back

Wetlands filter pollutants from water, improving water quality by trapping sediments and absorbing nutrients.

Front

What is the relationship between sunlight and photosynthesis?

Back

Sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

Front

Explain the concept of a food web.

Back

A food web is a complex network of feeding relationships among organisms in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy and nutrients flow.