Environmental Science Winter Benchmark 2024

Front

What does r-selected mean in ecology?

Back

R-selected species are those that produce many offspring, have a high growth rate, and typically have a short lifespan. Examples include insects and small rodents.

Front

What is the significance of the water cycle in the environment?

Back

The water cycle is crucial for maintaining ecosystems, regulating climate, and supporting life by distributing water across the planet.

Front

What is a biome?

Back

A biome is a large geographical biotic unit, a major community of plants and animals with similar life forms and environmental conditions.

Front

What are the primary factors that determine the type of biome?

Back

The primary factors are climate, soil type, and elevation, with climate being the most significant.

Front

What is the difference between a tundra and a desert biome?

Back

Both have low rainfall, but tundras are cold and have permafrost, while deserts are hot and dry.

Front

What role does the sun play in the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the heat necessary for evaporation, which is a key process in the water cycle.

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What is the definition of an ecosystem?

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An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

Front

What are the characteristics of a tropical rainforest?

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Tropical rainforests are characterized by high biodiversity, dense vegetation, and high annual rainfall.

Front

What is the importance of biodiversity in an ecosystem?

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Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing ecosystems to adapt to changes.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.