Human Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystems

Dr. Scott Sowell leads a virtual lesson on AP Environmental Science, focusing on human impacts on wetlands and eutrophication. The lesson includes a warm-up question, an overview of key topics, and a detailed discussion on the ecological and economic effects of human activities on wetlands. Eutrophication is explained with visual aids, highlighting its causes and consequences. The lesson concludes with a focus on visual representations and FRQ practice.

What is the primary focus of the lesson discussed by Dr. Scott Sowell?

• Marine biology and oceanography

• Renewable energy resources

• Human impacts on wetlands and eutrophication

• Climate change and its impacts

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-1

NGSS.HS-ESS3-5

Which type of wetland is dominated by trees?

• Estuaries

• Bogs

• Swamps

• Marshes

What role do mangrove forests play in the environment?

• Pollute coastal waters

• Provide habitats and prevent soil erosion

• Decrease biodiversity

• Increase soil erosion

What is a realistic solution to environmental problems as discussed in the lesson?

• Building more industrial plants

• Limiting vehicle traffic in sensitive areas

• Planting more trees in urban areas

• Moving factories more than 100 miles away from parks

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

What causes cultural eutrophication?

• Natural algae growth

• Excessive use of fertilizers and wastewater release

• Natural forest fires

• Deep sea mining activities

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

What is the main consequence of eutrophication in aquatic systems?

• Increased water flow

• Higher salinity levels

• Decreased fish populations due to low oxygen levels

• Increased water clarity

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

How does the Gulf of Mexico dead zone primarily form?

• Natural sediment deposition

• Agricultural runoff leading to algae blooms

• Oil spills

• Overfishing in the region

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-1

NGSS.HS-LS2-6

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

What is a secchi disk used for?

• Measuring water turbidity

• Measuring water temperature

• Measuring water depth

• Measuring water salinity

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-5

Which of the following is not a direct cause of eutrophication?

• Use of pesticides

• Use of phosphorus-rich fertilizers

• Industrial wastewater discharge

• Agricultural runoff

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

What is the primary method to combat eutrophication near agricultural areas?

• Banning all agricultural activities

• Using more chemical fertilizers

• Implementing better agricultural management practices

• Increasing the use of pesticides

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-7