SA4 Biogeochemical and Succession Practice

Front

What is secondary succession?

Back

Secondary succession is the process of ecological recovery that occurs in an area where a disturbance has destroyed a community but left the soil intact.

Front

What is primary succession?

Back

Primary succession is the development of a biological community in an area where no soil exists, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat.

Front

Why does secondary succession recover faster than primary succession?

Back

Secondary succession recovers faster because soil and seeds already exist, providing a foundation for new growth.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and making them available for plants.

Front

What is transpiration in the water cycle?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through their leaves.

Front

How does oxygen level change during decomposition?

Back

Oxygen levels drop as decomposers respire, consuming oxygen in the process of breaking down organic matter.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorus in ecosystems?

Back

Phosphorus is a vital nutrient for plants and animals, playing a key role in energy transfer and genetic material.

Front

How does weathering affect phosphorus availability?

Back

Weathering of rocks releases phosphorus into the soil, making it available for plant uptake.

Front

What is the difference between evaporation and transpiration?

Back

Evaporation is the process of water turning into vapor from surfaces like lakes, while transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.