Environmental Sci Unit 2 Study Guide

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species, genetic diversity, and the variety of ecosystems.

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What is ecological succession?

Back

Ecological succession is the process by which plant and animal communities change and develop over time, often following a disturbance.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

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How do forest fires contribute to greenhouse gas emissions?

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Forest fires release carbon stored in trees and vegetation into the atmosphere, increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases.

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What is the role of pioneer species in an ecosystem?

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Pioneer species are the first organisms to colonize a barren environment, initiating the process of ecological succession.

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What is an ecotone?

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An ecotone is a transition area between two different ecosystems, where species from both ecosystems can coexist.

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How do volcanic eruptions affect climate?

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Volcanic eruptions can release ash and gases into the atmosphere, which can scatter sunlight and lead to temporary cooling of the Earth's surface.

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What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

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Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, while secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but left the soil intact.

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What is the significance of keystone species?

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Keystone species are species that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment relative to their abundance, playing a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.