Concept 1 Notes: Introduction to Ecology

Front

What are the characteristics of life?

Back

1. Composed of one or more cells 2. Contain either DNA or RNA 3. Capable of growth 4. Capable of reproduction 5. Respond to stimuli 6. Adapt to the environment

Front

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of life? A) Be composed of one or more cells B) Contain either DNA or RNA C) Be capable of photosynthesis D) Be capable of growth

Back

C) Be capable of photosynthesis

Front

Can individual organisms evolve?

Back

False. Evolution occurs at the population level, not at the individual level.

Front

What is a community in ecology?

Back

A community is multiple populations of different species living together in a specific area.

Front

What is a stimulus?

Back

A stimulus is a change in an organism’s environment that can provoke a response.

Front

What is the biosphere?

Back

The biosphere is the zone of life on Earth, encompassing all of Earth’s ecosystems.

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

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

Front

Define population in ecological terms.

Back

A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area.

Front

What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem (e.g., plants, animals), while abiotic factors are non-living components (e.g., water, soil, climate).

Front

What role do producers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers, such as plants, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.