Understanding Environmental Science Concepts

What does the term "interdisciplinary" refer to in environmental science?

• The study of a single discipline to solve environmental issues.

• The integration of knowledge and methods from multiple disciplines to address complex environmental issues.

• The focus on economic factors in environmental science.

• The exclusive use of social sciences in environmental studies.

Which of the following best describes sustainability?

• The ability to use resources without any concern for future generations.

• Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

• Focusing solely on economic growth.

• Prioritizing social considerations over environmental ones.

In ecology, what is a "population"?

• A group of different species living in the same area.

• A group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area, capable of interbreeding.

• The total number of organisms in an ecosystem.

• The interaction between different species in an ecosystem.

What is the primary characteristic of R-selected species?

• They have long lifespans and provide extensive parental care.

• They reproduce quickly and produce many offspring.

• They are found in stable environments.

• They invest heavily in the survival of their offspring.

Which of the following is an example of a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

• Temperature

• Water

• Soil

• Plants

What does the 10% rule of energy conservation state?

• 10% of energy is lost at each trophic level.

• 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next.

• 10% of energy is used for metabolism.

• 10% of energy is stored in producers.

Which of the following best describes a mutualistic relationship?

• One organism benefits while the other is harmed.

• Both organisms benefit from the interaction.

• One organism benefits while the other is unaffected.

• Both organisms are harmed by the interaction.

What is a "trophic pyramid"?

• A linear sequence of organisms in an ecosystem.

• A graphical representation of the energy flow in an ecosystem.

• A network of interconnected food chains.

• A diagram showing the age distribution of a population.

Which of the following is a characteristic of a boreal forest?

• High rainfall throughout the year.

• Coniferous trees and long, cold winters.

• Open landscapes with scattered trees.

• Saturated land with water for a significant portion of the year.

What is the "tragedy of the commons"?

• A situation where shared resources are overused and depleted by individuals acting in their own self-interest.

• A natural disaster that affects common areas.

• A type of symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another.

• A model for sustainable resource management.