Ch. 4 Interacting with the Biosphere

Front

What is nitrogen fixation?

Back

The process of converting atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into a form that living organisms can use, such as ammonia (NH3).

Front

What organisms are primarily responsible for nitrogen fixation?

Back

Bacteria in the roots of legumes, bacteria in the soil, and through natural processes like lightning.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species.

Front

What factors can increase biodiversity?

Back

High food availability, abundant resources, and a greater birth rate than death rate in populations.

Front

What is a surge in one specific population's numbers likely to cause?

Back

It can lead to decreased biodiversity as it may outcompete other species for resources.

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.

Front

What happens to a population as it approaches its carrying capacity?

Back

The population growth rate slows down due to increased competition for limited resources.

Front

Where is most of the earth's carbon stored?

Back

In the ocean and underground, primarily in fossil fuels and sedimentary rocks.

Front

What role do decomposers play in the biosphere?

Back

They break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting plant growth.

Front

What is the significance of the nitrogen cycle?

Back

It is essential for recycling nitrogen in various forms through the ecosystem, supporting plant and animal life.