Human Population and the Environment

Question 1

What is the meaning of the term biological plasticity?

Answer 1

the ability to adapt biologically to an environment

Question 2

What is an adaptation?

Answer 2

any variation that can increase one’s biological fitness in a specific environment

Question 3

list the three ways in which humans respond to environmental stresses

Answer 3

• Acclimatization
• Developmental acclimatization/adjustment
• Genetic change

Question 4

What is Acclimatization?

Answer 4

Adaptation that can take moments to weeks to occur and is reversable

Question 5

Short term acclimatization is..

Answer 5

adaptation that can occur within seconds of exposure to a stressor.

Question 6

Developmental acclimatization/ Adjustment occurs…

Answer 6

During an individual’s growth and development. This is permanent.

Question 7

Genetic adaptation occurs…

Answer 7

when a stressor is constant and can last for many generations. These are environmentally specific.

Question 8

What factors affect population distribution and density?

Answer 8

~Climate
~relief
~Natural vegetation
~Soil
~Bodies of water