MEGA REVIEW DECK Flashcards
(2479 cards)
1
Q
What are mangrove swamps?
A
Coastal wetlands in tropical/subtropical areas with salt-tolerant trees
2
Q
What is dysentery and how is it caused?
A
An intestinal infection caused by ingesting water or food contaminated with untreated sewage.
3
Q
What is topsoil and why is it important?
A
The A horizon; its rich in minerals and organic material, vital for plant growth.
4
Q
What are sublethal effects?
A
Harmful effects that impair an organism’s behavior, physiology, or reproduction without causing death.
5
Q
How does sediment buildup behind a dam affect its efficiency?
A
It reduces storage capacity and can damage turbines, lowering electricity generation.
6
Q
What happens during photosynthesis in the carbon cycle?
A
Plants absorb CO‚ÇÇ and convert it into glucose, storing carbon in organic molecules.
7
Q
What is the "inversion layer"?
A
The warm layer of air that traps emissions beneath it during a thermal inversion.
8
Q
What are Crude Birth Rate (CBR) and Crude Death Rate (CDR)?
A
Births and deaths per 1,000 people in a population per year.
9
Q
At what pH level do fish populations begin to die off?
A
Below a pH of 5.0.
10
Q
What makes the soil in temperate seasonal forests more fertile than in the Taiga?
A
Fast decomposition
11
Q
What are trophic cascades?
A
Changes in one species population causing ripple effects throughout the food web.
12
Q
How might biodiversity loss from thermal pollution affect an aquatic food web?
A
It can collapse higher trophic levels that depend on sensitive species.
13
Q
How do ecosystems help in flood control?
A
Wetlands and forests absorb excess water, reducing flood risks.
14
Q
What are potential consequences of disrupted migration?
A
Breeding patterns and food availability for marine species are affected.
15
Q
What is a positive feedback loop in the context of eutrophication?
A
It’s a cycle where low oxygen causes more death, leading to even lower oxygen levels, worsening conditions.
16
Q
What policy impact did the Fukushima disaster have in Japan and globally?
A
It intensified global debate over nuclear safety and led Japan to temporarily shut down all nuclear plants for review.
17
Q
What is a green roof, and how does it help reduce runoff?
A
A green roof is a vegetated layer grown on top of a building. It captures rainfall, reduces the amount of runoff, insulates buildings, and supports biodiversity. It also filters pollutants from rainwater and air, reduces the urban heat island effect, and contributes to carbon sequestration.
18
Q
What is the significance of the concept number of Earths in ecological footprint analysis?
A
It shows how many Earths would be needed if everyone lived like a specific individual or population, illustrating resource overuse.
19
Q
Why is most of the energy not transferred to the next trophic level?
A
Because organisms use energy for cell respiration, and some organisms arent eaten or are lost from the ecosystem.
20
Q
What are CAFE standards?
A
CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards are regulations set by the U.S. government that require automakers to achieve a specific average miles per gallon (MPG) across their entire fleet of passenger vehicles and light trucks sold in a given year. These standards are designed to reduce energy consumption by increasing the fuel economy of cars and trucks. Automakers that fail to meet the required MPG targets must pay fines. The standards have become more stringent over time, pushing manufacturers to develop more fuel-efficient vehicles, including hybrids and electric vehicles.
21
Q
Why do areas at the same latitude have different climates?
A
Local factors such as elevation, wind, ocean currents, and proximity to water influence climate.
22
Q
What is natural gas primarily used for?
A
Heating and electricity generation.
23
Q
According to the Theory of Island Biogeography, what happens to immigration rates as species richness increases?
A
Immigration rates decrease.
24
Q
What abiotic factors can define a species ecological tolerance?
A
Temperature, salinity, sunlight, pH, humidity, and water flow.
25
How does litter harm aquatic animals?
Causes intestinal blockage (e.g., sea turtles eating plastic bags), entanglement (e.g., seals in nets), and chemical poisoning.
26
How long can CFCs remain in the atmosphere?
55 to over 500 years.
27
How does human population growth affect biodiversity?
It increases demand for land, resources, food, and energy, leading to habitat loss and more pollution.
28
What is the function of a roof overhang in passive solar design?
A roof overhang blocks high summer sun to reduce overheating while allowing low winter sun to enter windows and provide warmth.
29
What are the environmental consequences of urban runoff?
The primary consequences include: reduced groundwater recharge due to blocked infiltration, increased risk of flooding, transport of pollutants into surface waters, and the physical alteration of aquatic habitats. Runoff can cause erosion, degrade stream health, increase water turbidity, and disrupt ecosystems.
30
What is the biggest cause of biodiversity loss?
Habitat destruction.
31
Why are generalist species more likely to become invasive?
Their broad food requirements and high adaptability help them thrive in various environments.
32
What are the advantages and disadvantages of agricultural irrigation?
Advantages: Makes farming viable in arid areas and boosts plant growth. Disadvantages: Depletes aquifers, causes waterlogging and salinization, and can drown plant roots.
33
Is coal a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Nonrenewable – it forms over millions of years from fossilized biomass and is consumed faster than it regenerates.
34
What chemicals commonly contribute to toxic pollution in aquatic systems?
Pesticides (e.g., DDT), heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead, arsenic), oil spills, and sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone.
35
How does infant mortality rate affect TFR?
Higher IMR often leads to higher TFR, as families have more children to replace those lost.
36
How do streams and rivers differ?
Rivers are wider and carry more water; streams are narrower with less water
37
Name two species that thrive in edge habitats.
Brown-headed Cowbird, white-tailed deer, raccoons, foxes, kudzu, English ivy.
38
How do ocean currents form?
They are driven by prevailing winds and Earths rotation (Coriolis effect).
39
How can aquaculture wastewater contribute to eutrophication?
Excess nutrients (mainly nitrogen and phosphorus) from uneaten feed and excrement can lead to harmful algal blooms, depleting oxygen and damaging aquatic ecosystems.
40
What is nuclear fission?
Nuclear fission occurs when a neutron strikes the nucleus of a radioactive isotope (e.g., Uranium-235), causing it to split, releasing a large amount of heat energy and additional neutrons that continue the chain reaction.
41
What are some examples of renewable energy sources?
Solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass.
42
Why do CO‚ÇÇ levels oscillate seasonally?
Seasonal photosynthesis and decomposition in the Northern Hemisphere.
43
How does temperature change in the troposphere?
Temperature decreases with increasing altitude due to decreasing air density.
44
What is the zone of physiological stress?
Organisms survive but with stress—infertility, lack of growth, or reduced activity.
45
Are sunspaces or solariums examples of passive or active solar energy?
Passive; they collect and distribute solar heat through architectural design.
46
What are biofuels?
Biofuels are liquid fuels made from biomass (e.g., corn, sugarcane, algae), typically used in transportation as alternatives to gasoline or diesel.
47
What is the connection between acid deposition and aluminum in water?
Acid deposition increases soluble aluminum levels, which are toxic to aquatic organisms.
48
What is skimming in oil spill response?
Physically removing oil from the water surface using skimmer boats and vacuum systems.
49
What kind of trees dominate the Taiga biome?
Coniferous trees
50
What sizes of particulate matter are considered most dangerous and why?
PM‚ÇÇ.‚ÇÖ is the most dangerous because it is small enough to lodge deep in the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
51
Why are developing countries more vulnerable to infectious diseases?
Poor sanitation, unsafe drinking water, limited healthcare, tropical climates.
52
Who are secondary consumers?
Organisms that eat primary consumers; typically carnivores or omnivores.
53
What are the primary gases in Earths atmosphere?
Nitrogen (~78%), oxygen (~21%), argon (~0.9%), and trace amounts of other gases including carbon dioxide and water vapor.
54
What is habitat provisioning?
Providing living space for organisms, part of supporting ecosystem services.
55
How does climate change contribute to species endangerment?
It alters temperatures and precipitation patterns, shifting ecosystems faster than species can adapt.
56
How is energy obtained from biomass versus biofuels?
Biomass is combusted directly for heat or electricity; biofuels undergo chemical processing (e.g., fermentation) to create liquid fuels.
57
What happens to mercury concentration as you move up trophic levels?
Mercury concentrations increase dramatically at higher trophic levels.
58
What is the Benthic Zone?
The muddy bottom of a lake or pond
59
What does abiotic potential refer to?
The ability of a species to reproduce and increase its population under ideal conditions.
60
Name a route of exposure for lead.
Ingestion of lead from old water pipes or paint chips.
61
What are the four tiers of the IPM tactics pyramid, in order?
1) Cultural control, 2) Mechanical/Physical control, 3) Biological control, 4) Chemical control.
62
How does hydroelectricity affect downstream ecosystems?
Dams block sediment and nutrient flow, reducing wetland productivity and habitat health.
63
How does meat production impact water use?
Water is used for both growing animal feed and hydrating animals, increasing total water use compared to plant-based food systems.
64
How does planting cover crops improve long-term fertility and erosion control?
Cover crops grow in the offseason, anchoring soil and limiting erosion. When left to decompose as green manure, they add nutrients and organic matter, creating a moisture-retentive layer that enhances soil structure.
65
What is the relationship between CO‚ÇÇ and global temperatures?
Increased atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ from human activities traps more heat, leading to global warming.
66
Identify and describe one piece of technology or equipment that can reduce the risk of indoor air pollution.
Air purifiers with HEPA filters remove particulate matter; carbon monoxide detectors alert residents to CO presence.
67
Why are coastal cities cooler in summer and warmer in winter compared to inland cities?
Water moderates the temperature due to its high specific heat, leading to smaller temperature ranges.
68
What is active solar energy?
Active solar energy involves mechanical or electrical devices, such as pumps or fans, to collect, store, and distribute solar energy for heating or electricity.
69
What increases productivity in aquatic ecosystems?
More nutrients in the water or more available light.
70
What are benefits of free-range grazing?
Natural growth without hormones, reduced disease spread, and natural fertilization of land via dispersed waste.
71
How does sea spray contribute to natural PM?
Ocean waves release tiny salt particles into the air, adding to PM concentrations.
72
How does fossil fuel use impact ecological and carbon footprints?
Fossil fuels release CO‚ÇÇ during extraction and use, increasing both carbon and ecological footprints.
73
How do species move to islands?
Via humans, animals, wind, ocean currents, land bridges, and stepping-stone islands.
74
How much can incineration reduce solid waste volume?
By up to 70–90%.
75
How can farmers evaluate IPM success?
By tracking pest populations, crop yields, and ecosystem health after applying pyramid strategies.
76
How can humans alter Earth’s carrying capacity?
Through technological advancements like synthetic fertilizers, which increase food supply.
77
What is the primary producer in fast-moving streams/rivers?
Leaves and organic matter from terrestrial environments
78
What is bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)?
A molecule formed when hydrogen ions bind with carbonate ions, reducing carbonate availability.
79
When are NOx concentrations highest during the day?
Early in the day, during morning traffic.
80
What does the acronym HIPPCO stand for?
Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Population growth, Pollution, Climate change, Overexploitation.
81
What is the role of a keystone species in an ecosystem?
Keystone species have a large effect on their ecosystems by influencing the abundance and distribution of other species, often by modifying habitats or controlling populations.
82
How does overfishing affect the economy?
It reduces income for fishers, damages fisheries long-term sustainability, and hurts tourism in coastal areas dependent on marine life.
83
Where are salt marshes found?
Along temperate coasts within estuaries
84
How does salt in urban runoff affect ecosystems?
Salt can kill aquatic plants and insects that are salt-intolerant. It is especially problematic in colder regions where road salt is used frequently in winter, increasing salinity in freshwater bodies.
85
What products come from refining crude oil?
Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, asphalt, and tar—based on their boiling points in the refining process.
86
What are HFOs, and why are they a better alternative?
Hydrofluoroolefins have low greenhouse warming potential and no ozone depletion potential due to faster atmospheric breakdown.
87
What is the role of public education in controlling invasives?
Informs people how to prevent spread (e.g., cleaning boats, avoiding firewood transport).
88
How is arsenic naturally introduced into groundwater, posing a threat to human health?
Leaching from rocks and soils, worsened by mining activities.
89
How do sunspaces contribute to passive solar heating?
Sunspaces, or solariums, are attached rooms with extensive glazing that capture solar heat, which can then be transferred to the main living areas, offering isolated gain.
90
Why is grain production per capita a concern for sustainability?
Despite total production increases, per-person grain availability has begun to decline, raising concerns about long-term food security.
91
What is clearcutting in forestry?
Clearcutting is the practice of removing all or almost all trees in an area at once, often used for timber harvesting.
92
Why is algae considered a more sustainable biofuel source than corn?
It requires less land, can be grown in controlled environments, and yields oils that can be turned into biodiesel or ethanol.
93
How do wetlands help in groundwater recharge?
They allow water to seep into the ground slowly, filtering pollutants and replenishing aquifers.
94
A fisherman catches wild salmon in a river. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Provisioning service (direct product from nature).
95
What is gene flow, and how does it affect a population?
Gene flow is the movement of alleles between populations through migration, which can increase genetic diversity.
96
What were the consequences of Three Mile Island on human health?
Despite radiation release, no increase in cancer rates or deaths was scientifically confirmed.
97
How do hybrid vehicles conserve energy?
They combine gasoline engines with electric motors, often recharging via regenerative braking, to reduce fuel consumption.
98
Who introduced the term "Tragedy of the Commons"?
Garrett Hardin in a 1968 essay published in the journal *Science*.
99
What is radon gas and where does it come from?
A radioactive gas that naturally comes from the decay of uranium in the ground.
100
What is the exosphere?
The outermost layer of Earths atmosphere, where atmospheric particles gradually fade into space.
101
What were the 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act focused on?
The 1990 Amendments addressed three major issues: acid rain (reducing SO‚ÇÇ and NO‚Çì emissions), ozone layer protection (phasing out CFCs), and urban air quality (strengthening vehicle emission standards and controlling toxic air pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde).
102
What is a binary cycle geothermal power plant?
A plant where geothermal fluid heats a second liquid with a low boiling point to vaporize and drive a turbine.
103
What is one major engineering solution used by power plants to reduce thermal pollution?
Installing and optimizing cooling towers to dissipate heat into the atmosphere before discharge.
104
Why is hydrogen gas considered an energy carrier rather than a primary energy source?
Hydrogen stores energy produced from another source (e.g., electricity from renewables or fossil fuels), making it a carrier, not a source.
105
How did tree species like pine and birch respond to post-Ice Age warming?
They shifted northward to remain within their ecological tolerance.
106
How can forest thinning contribute to sustainability?
Forest thinning is the practice of selectively removing some trees from a dense forest to improve the overall health of the remaining ones. By reducing tree density, there is less competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Thinning also lowers the risk of wildfires and prevents the spread of diseases and pests.
107
How does clearcutting impact aquatic ecosystems?
Increased sedimentation and temperature changes can harm fish populations and aquatic biodiversity.
108
How can privatization prevent the Tragedy of the Commons?
By assigning ownership to individuals or groups, they have a vested interest in maintaining and sustainably using the resource.
109
What are the three steps in environmental risk analysis?
Risk assessment, risk acceptance, and risk management.
110
How does a wet scrubber work?
It sprays liquid into exhaust streams to absorb and neutralize gases and capture particulates as sludge.
111
What is permafrost and why is its melting dangerous?
Frozen ground storing carbon; melting releases methane and CO‚ÇÇ, accelerating warming.
112
How does climate change affect marine ecosystems positively?
Creation of new marine habitats from flooded coastal areas.
113
How do r-selected species outcompete K-selected species?
With high reproductive rates and rapid population growth, they can quickly dominate resources.
114
What is the biosphere?
The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, including all life forms and their interactions with the environment
115
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A community shares a forest where individuals harvest timber without any regulations, leading to deforestation.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The forest is a shared resource, and unregulated harvesting leads to its degradation.
116
Can the source of pollution determine whether it is classified as point or nonpoint? Provide examples.
Yes. Pollution from a discrete, identifiable location like a pipe or smokestack is classified as point source, even if it spreads. For example, an oil spill from a drilling platform remains point source. Field runoff from agriculture is nonpoint source pollution. A CAFO discharge pipe is point source, while general field runoff is nonpoint.
117
What are windbreaks and their multi-functional benefits?
Windbreaks are rows of trees or shrubs planted to reduce wind speed and prevent wind erosion of topsoil. They also serve as habitats for pollinators and wildlife, and may yield fruit, firewood, or other income sources.
118
What are the environmental impacts of coal use?
Surface mining destroys habitats, combustion releases CO‚ÇÇ and air pollutants (SOx, NOx, PM), and toxic ash with heavy metals contaminates land and water.
119
Why does algal growth often increase in thermally polluted water?
Slightly higher temperatures can accelerate plant and algal growth.
120
What properties of atrazine make it likely to enter aquatic ecosystems after application on crops?
It can run off fields after rain or be blown by wind into nearby surface waters.
121
What are aquifers?
Underground layers of porous rock or sediment that store and transmit groundwater.
122
What is mechanical pest control?
Physical methods like traps, barriers, or hand removal to manage pest populations without chemicals.
123
Why are dead trees a threat to forest health and fire safety?
Dead trees harbor pests and diseases and act as dry fuel for wildfires, increasing the risk of outbreaks and large-scale fires that damage ecosystems.
124
What is the tectonic cycle?
The cycle of processes that build up and break down Earth’s lithosphere.
125
What is an ecological footprint?
A measure of the environmental impact of an individual or population based on the resources consumed and waste produced.
126
What are two types of recycling processes?
Closed-loop recycling (e.g., glass to glass) and open-loop recycling (e.g., plastic bottles to synthetic fibers).
127
What are the prevailing winds in a Hadley cell?
Trade winds, blowing from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere.
128
What causes a genetic shift (drift)?
Random chance, often impacting rare or endangered species—e.g. disasters or random mating patterns.
129
What is an example of a cyclic population pattern?
Predator-prey dynamics like lynx and hare populations.
130
What is mine reclamation?
The process of restoring mined land by refilling holes, reshaping land contours, replacing topsoil, and replanting native vegetation.
131
What is natural gas primarily composed of?
80–95% methane; also contains ethane, propane, and butane.
132
What is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault?
A secure facility preserving a wide variety of seeds to protect global agricultural biodiversity.
133
Why is stratospheric ozone beneficial but tropospheric ozone harmful?
Stratospheric ozone protects from UV radiation; tropospheric ozone damages lung tissues.
134
Why do grasses thrive in temperate grasslands instead of trees?
Low rainfall and frequent fires
135
What are green roofs and their energy benefits?
Vegetated roofs that absorb sunlight, reduce building heat, and mitigate the urban heat island effect, thereby lowering AC use.
136
What are habitat corridors and why are they important?
They connect fragmented habitats, allowing species to migrate and maintain genetic diversity.
137
What type of pollution source is pesticide spraying across a wide agricultural area?
Nonpoint Source
138
What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics?
When energy is transformed, the total amount remains the same, but its ability to do work diminishes.
139
A country has a CBR of 18 and a CDR of 9. What is the growth rate and doubling time?
Growth rate = 0.9%, Doubling time = 77.77 years.
140
What is a radioactive half-life?
The half-life is the amount of time it takes for 50% of a radioactive sample to decay.
141
How does sonar-based fishing work and why is it a problem?
Sonar locates schools of fish, allowing highly targeted net deployment. While efficient, it increases overfishing and disrupts marine mammals navigational systems.
142
What isotope is most commonly used in nuclear power plants?
Uranium-235.
143
What is die-off in population ecology?
A sharp decrease in population size following overshoot due to resource depletion.
144
How does the construction of dams contribute to greenhouse gas emissions?
Concrete and machinery during construction emit significant greenhouse gases.
145
What is symbiosis?
A long-term interaction between two different species not based on consumption
146
Give two examples of abiotic factors that organisms have tolerance ranges for.
pH (acidity), temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen levels, sunlight intensity, and nutrient concentrations.
147
What critical role does stratospheric ozone play for life on Earth?
It absorbs harmful UV-B and UV-C radiation, protecting DNA from mutation, preventing skin cancer and cataracts, and enabling life to exist on land.
148
What are two ways power plants can improve the efficiency of existing cooling systems?
Upgrade cooling tower technology and extend cooling time before water release.
149
What does a declining birth rate indicate about a countrys stage in the demographic transition?
The country is likely in Phase 3 or Phase 4, showing increased development and changing social norms.
150
Describe how biological contaminants become airborne and their impact on human health.
Mold releases spores and dust becomes aerosolized; both can worsen asthma, cause allergies, and lead to infections.
151
How does acid rain affect plant roots?
Acid rain causes soil acidification, leading to poor root development and reduced plant growth.
152
What are some sustainable alternatives to clearcutting?
Practices like selective cutting, shelterwood cutting, and agroforestry aim to reduce environmental impacts.
153
When did the stratospheric ozone layer likely emerge?
About 600 million years ago, allowing life to expand onto land.
154
How can a warm front lead to a thermal inversion?
A warm front can move over a colder surface air mass, creating a layer of warm air above cool air, which traps pollutants near the ground.
155
What is the difference between allopatric and sympatric speciation?
Allopatric speciation occurs via physical separation, while sympatric speciation occurs without a physical barrier, often through behavioral or genetic isolation.
156
What percent of excess heat from global warming have oceans absorbed?
About 90%.
157
Why do developed nations use more energy per capita than developing nations?
Developed nations have higher standards of living, more industrialized economies, and more energy-consuming technologies.
158
Why is hydrogen considered a secondary energy source?
Because it must be produced using another primary energy source such as natural gas or electricity.
159
How does species composition change during succession?
Early successional species are replaced by better competitors for light, nutrients, and water.
160
How does limestone help reduce sulfur dioxide emissions?
Limestone reacts with sulfur dioxide during combustion to form solid calcium sulfate, which can be removed from exhaust.
161
How does Earths atmosphere affect solar radiation at different latitudes?
Sunlight at shallower angles travels through more atmosphere, losing more energy.
162
Why are amphibians good indicator species?
They live both on land and in water and are sensitive to environmental changes.
163
How much more energy does the average U.S. resident use compared to the world average?
About five times as much.
164
How do current fossil fuel consumption trends affect their availability?
If consumption continues at current rates, oil may run out in ~50 years, natural gas soon after, and coal in ~114 years.
165
Why is nutrient pollution a concern with effluent discharge?
It can cause cultural eutrophication, leading to algae blooms and dead zones.
166
What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and why are they significant?
Air pollutants released during biomass burning that contribute to smog and respiratory issues.
167
Why is geothermal energy expensive to implement?
High costs from deep drilling, site surveys, and infrastructure needs.
168
What are depletable renewable resources?
Renewable resources like biomass that can run out if overused, such as forests cut faster than they regrow.
169
What is the primary goal of reducing air pollutants?
To protect human health, preserve ecosystems, and minimize environmental damage.
170
What are the Dirty Dozen in the context of POPs?
The initial 12 POPs identified by the Stockholm Convention for elimination or restriction, including DDT, PCBs, and dioxins.
171
How does sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ) impact the environment and health?
It irritates the respiratory system and forms sulfuric acid in the atmosphere, leading to acid rain.
172
What did Malthus theorize about population growth?
Malthus believed human population grows exponentially while food supply grows linearly, leading to resource shortages.
173
What is Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)?
IMTA is a sustainable approach where multiple species from different trophic levels—such as fish, seaweed, and shellfish—are cultivated together. Waste from one species becomes nutrients for another, reducing environmental impacts.
174
What is the edge effect, and why is it important for biodiversity?
The edge effect occurs where two different ecosystems meet, creating unique conditions. It can lead to higher biodiversity but also favors opportunistic species at the expense of interior species, decreasing overall diversity.
175
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
It binds to hemoglobin in the blood, preventing oxygen transport and causing poisoning.
176
What is sedimentation and burial in the carbon cycle?
Carbon in the ocean combines with calcium to form sediments like limestone, storing carbon long-term.
177
How can nonpoint source pollution lead to physical habitat destruction?
Sediment and debris can bury habitats, clog fish gills, and physically alter riverbeds and wetlands.
178
How do plants naturally contribute to atmospheric pollutants?
They emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like terpenes that can form natural photochemical smog.
179
What is the residence time of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere?
About 114 years.
180
What characterizes a eutrophic lake?
High nutrient levels and productivity
181
Which stage of sewage treatment removes pharmaceutical pollutants and PFOAs (persistent organic pollutants)?
They are not effectively removed by primary or secondary treatment; some may be reduced during advanced tertiary treatment if specialized filters are used.
182
What are the top countries with the largest oil reserves?
Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Iran, and Iraq possess the largest oil reserves.
183
What is PM10 and why is it concerning?
Particulate matter less than 10 micrometers; it can enter the respiratory tract and cause irritation and inflammation.
184
How does ocean warming contribute to coral bleaching?
Higher temperatures stress zooxanthellae algae, causing their expulsion from coral tissues, reducing energy supply to coral.
185
What do decomposers do in a trophic system?
Break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the soil, air, and water.
186
What is the formula for percent change?
Percent Change = [(Final Value - Initial Value) / Initial Value] √ó 100.
187
Why cant governments directly set energy prices?
Market dynamics set prices; governments can only influence indirectly through taxes and incentives.
188
How do armed guards help protect endangered animals?
They deter poachers and protect critical populations.
189
What defines freshwater wetlands?
Saturated or submerged land with emergent vegetation
190
What environmental consequences result from exceeding Earths biocapacity?
Resource depletion, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, increased greenhouse gases, and long-term unsustainability.
191
What is a major environmental concern associated with clear-cutting?
It can lead to severe soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and increased runoff that affects nearby aquatic ecosystems.
192
Why are landfills more often placed near marginalized communities?
Low-income and minority communities often lack resources to oppose them.
193
What happens to organisms that are not consumed in the food chain?
They may live out their life and become detritus or be lost to other ecosystems.
194
What regions coral reefs are notably affected by bleaching events?
The Great Barrier Reef.
195
Why is palm oil biodiesel controversial?
It can emit 98% more GHGs than fossil fuels due to deforestation and land-use change.
196
How do ice crystals in polar stratospheric clouds contribute to ozone depletion?
They act as surfaces for reactions that release active chlorine, accelerating ozone breakdown in the Antarctic spring.
197
What is PM2.5 and why is it more dangerous than PM10?
Particles less than 2.5 micrometers that can penetrate deep into the lungs and are linked to chronic bronchitis and lung cancer.
198
Name two examples of invasive species.
Zebra mussel, kudzu vine, Burmese python, European starling, feral pigs, cane toad, emerald ash borer, European green crab, brown marmorated stink bug, and gypsy moth.
199
Why are young children more vulnerable to air pollution?
Their lungs are still developing, they breathe more rapidly, and are closer to ground-level pollutants.
200
What causes ENSO?
Variations in oceanic and atmospheric circulation in the tropical Pacific, particularly changes in trade winds and sea surface temperatures.
201
What is a negative feedback loop?
A loop that works against and counteracts the original event.
202
What is a population in biology?
A population is a group of individuals of the same species that interbreed and share a common gene pool.
203
What is rotational grazing and its benefit?
Moving livestock between pastures periodically to prevent overgrazing and enhance pasture productivity by optimal manure distribution and grass regrowth.
204
What is an age structure diagram?
A visual representation of the number of individuals within specific age groups, typically separated by gender.
205
What are the main anthropogenic sources of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides?
Burning fossil fuels, especially in coal-fired power plants and vehicles.
206
What do detritivores feed on?
Detritivores consume dead matter, including plant and animal remains and waste
207
What are physiological stressors caused by pollution?
Limited growth (e.g., stunted fish), disrupted reproduction (e.g., endocrine disruptors in amphibians), hormonal imbalance, suffocation (e.g., from algal blooms), and increased mortality.
208
What strategy involves physically removing invasive species?
Mechanical control.
209
Why do larger islands support more species?
Due to greater ecosystem diversity, more niches, larger populations, and lower extinction rates.
210
What is a prescribed burn, and why is it used?
A prescribed burn is a controlled fire set intentionally to reduce dead biomass on the forest floor and prevent more dangerous wildfires.
211
What greenhouse gases can large-scale composting produce?
Methane (CH‚ÇÑ) and nitrous oxide (N‚ÇÇO).
212
What environmental disasters highlight petroleum risks?
Exxon Valdez (1989): 11 million gallons spilled; Deepwater Horizon (2010): 206 million gallons spilled, devastating marine ecosystems.
213
What role does population density play in the spread of disease and parasitism?
Higher density increases the chance of disease and parasite transmission, affecting population health.
214
What is hydrogen sulfide and why is it a concern?
A toxic gas that can be lethal to humans and animals if not ventilated properly.
215
What does a slower drop in a survivorship curve indicate?
A longer average lifespan.
216
What is trawling and why is it ecologically damaging?
Trawling drags a cone-shaped net through the water or along the ocean floor, catching large volumes of fish but destroying benthic habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds.
217
How do more acidic conditions affect harmful algal blooms?
They can make algae produce more toxins.
218
What agency enforces the Endangered Species Act?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
219
Why are studies on endocrine disruptors often misrepresented or overstated in popular media?
Because the science is complex and results are sometimes preliminary or context-specific.
220
What is the role of permafrost in the carbon cycle?
Permafrost locks away carbon; thawing due to global warming releases CO‚ÇÇ and methane, intensifying climate change.
221
What are the effects of harmful algal blooms?
They block sunlight, reduce oxygen levels, and release toxins harmful to aquatic life.
222
Which countries hold the majority of the worlds phosphate reserves?
Morocco, China, South Africa, and the U.S.
223
What is soil salinization?
The buildup of salts in soil from repeated irrigation, especially with saline groundwater.
224
What is reformulated gasoline and how is it different from regular gasoline?
It contains lower amounts of sulfur and VOCs and may include more oxygenates like ethanol to reduce ozone formation.
225
What type of pollution source is animal waste runoff from a single CAFO?
Point Source
226
What is aquaculture?
Aquaculture is the practice of cultivating aquatic organisms—such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed—in controlled environments for food, restoration, or commercial purposes. It includes freshwater and marine environments and can involve open ocean cages or land-based tanks.
227
Which latitudes are experiencing the greatest warming?
Far northern latitudes, such as the Arctic.
228
What is flood irrigation?
Flood irrigation involves covering entire fields with water to saturate the soil, typically using gravity-fed systems.
229
What is a carbon reservoir?
A storage location for carbon, such as forests, oceans, or fossil fuels.
230
What’s the key difference between ground source heat pumps and geothermal systems?
Heat pumps use shallow solar-heated ground; geothermal taps magma-heated water.
231
What influences immigration and extinction rates on islands?
Island size and distance from the mainland.
232
What is the role of the atmosphere in supporting life?
It provides essential gases (O‚ÇÇ and CO‚ÇÇ), regulates temperature, and protects from harmful solar radiation.
233
What is the role of the motorized drive in a wind turbine?
It positions the turbine to face the wind for optimal energy generation.
234
What human activities contribute most to ocean acidification?
Burning fossil fuels, vehicle emissions, and deforestation.
235
What is the ozone hole, and when was it first noticed?
Severe thinning of the ozone layer over Antarctica, first observed in the mid-1980s.
236
Why is intermittency a problem for wind energy?
Wind isn’t constant, and without large-scale storage, wind energy cant always meet demand or replace continuous energy sources.
237
Why is 50% of carrying capacity considered optimal for MSY?
It allows the fastest regeneration rate, ensuring sustainable yields over time.
238
What are the three phases of ENSO?
El Niño, La Niña, and Neutral (Normal) Conditions.
239
What is an example of secondary succession?
After a forest fire.
240
What diseases are caused by asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
241
What indicates a declining population in an age structure diagram?
A narrow base compared to the top, showing fewer young individuals.
242
What is an intertidal zone?
A coastal area exposed to air at low tide and submerged at high tide
243
How does matter move through trophic levels?
Through consumption and decomposition, moving from organisms to the environment and back.
244
What happens when invasive species outcompete native species?
Native populations decline and biodiversity decreases.
245
Explain why formaldehyde is especially concerning as an indoor pollutant.
It’s a VOC commonly used in building materials; prolonged exposure causes respiratory irritation and is linked to cancer.
246
How do solar panels generate electricity using silicon?
Sunlight hits the silicon in the panel, exciting electrons that then move through a circuit, creating electric current.
247
How does increased H⁺ concentration affect carbonate ions?
Hydrogen ions combine with carbonate ions to form bicarbonate, reducing the availability of carbonate for marine life.
248
What are convergent boundaries?
Plate boundaries where two plates collide, causing subduction or mountain formation.
249
What is flowback fluid in fracking and why is it a problem?
Toxic wastewater returning from the well, containing salts, hydrocarbons, acids—can leak from storage and contaminate ecosystems.
250
What is permafrost?
Permanently frozen ground found in Arctic and subarctic regions that can release greenhouse gases when thawed.
251
What are phthalates, and in what types of consumer products are they commonly found?
Chemicals used to soften plastics and add fragrance to cosmetics.
252
How does untreated sewage leakage contribute to the spread of endocrine disruptors?
It releases hormone-active chemicals directly into aquatic ecosystems.
253
What insect is killing ash trees across the U.S.?
The emerald ash borer lays its larvae under the bark of ash trees. The larvae eat into the trees vascular system (the phloem), cutting off nutrient and water flow, which kills the tree. The spread of emerald ash borers has been worsened by transporting infested firewood, making control very difficult.
254
How does pollution cause dead zones in aquatic ecosystems?
Excess nutrients cause algal blooms, which deplete oxygen and kill aquatic life.
255
What do we mean by terrestrial biomes, and how are they influenced by temperature and rainfall?
Land-based regions defined by climate
256
What causes an earthquake?
The sudden release of energy when stress overcomes a locked fault.
257
What are the ecological risks of GM crop usage?
Potential loss of biodiversity, increased herbicide use, and ecological disruption through gene transfer to wild plants.
258
What is the role of a watershed divide?
It separates adjacent watersheds and directs flow into different drainage systems.
259
What are heterotrophs?
Heterotrophs cannot make their own energy and must consume other organisms
260
Name pathogens that evolved resistance to treatments.
Tuberculosis (drug-resistant TB), malaria (chloroquine-resistant malaria strains).
261
What types of studies help link pollutant exposure to health outcomes?
Correlational studies and epidemiological studies.
262
What is fitness in evolutionary terms?
Fitness is an organisms ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.
263
What does pollen in lake sediments tell scientists?
It reveals historical species distributions and responses to past climate change.
264
Why are confined aquifers more prone to depletion?
Because they recharge slowly through small areas, overuse can deplete them faster than they refill.
265
Can bleached corals recover?
Yes, if favorable conditions return quickly.
266
How do plants and algae obtain phosphorus?
Directly from the soil or water as phosphate.
267
What is a POP (Persistent Organic Pollutant)?
A chemical substance that persists in the environment, bioaccumulates through the food web, and poses a risk to human health and the environment.
268
Explain why estuaries are particularly vulnerable to nonpoint source pollution and describe one potential impact.
Estuaries collect runoff from large watersheds with many pollution sources, making it difficult to trace. This can cause eutrophication, oxygen depletion, and harm to aquatic life.
269
How does public transportation help reduce air pollution?
It reduces the number of cars on the road, cutting emissions from vehicles.
270
Why do high latitude regions tend to be dry?
Sinking air prevents condensation and precipitation.
271
What is the bottleneck effect?
A sharp reduction in population size that leads to a loss of genetic diversity.
272
How does water transport and dilute pollutants?
By moving contaminants through runoff, leaching, and flow into larger water bodies.
273
What does biocapacity mean?
The capacity of ecosystems to produce useful resources and absorb waste, especially carbon emissions.
274
What is the major reservoir of phosphorus?
Sedimentary rocks and sediments.
275
What is the Second Green Revolution?
A later wave of agricultural innovations starting in the 1970s–1980s focused on biotechnology, genetic modification, and sustainable farming techniques.
276
What is a mutation?
A mutation is a random change in the genetic code that can introduce new genetic variation into a population.
277
What is the significance of the ozone layer?
It absorbs and protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV-B and UV-C) radiation.
278
How do temperature inversions affect air pollution?
They trap pollutants near the ground by preventing normal air circulation.
279
What is coral bleaching?
A process where coral expel symbiotic algae, losing their color and becoming stressed.
280
What is strip cropping and how does it protect the soil?
Also called intercropping, this technique alternates dense crops (like wheat or hay) with less dense ones (like corn). Dense crops catch soil and water runoff from less dense rows, minimizing erosion and conserving moisture.
281
How does noise pollution damage hearing in animals?
Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.
282
What PPM range of dissolved oxygen is dangerous for fish populations?
3–5 parts per million; below 6 PPM can prevent stable fish populations.
283
A forested hillside reduces soil erosion during heavy rain. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Regulating service (erosion control).
284
How does urbanization affect groundwater recharge?
It prevents groundwater recharge by covering land with impervious surfaces, leading to increased runoff.
285
How do catalytic converters reduce hydrocarbons (CxHy)?
They oxidize hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water: CxHy + O‚ÇÇ ‚Üí CO‚ÇÇ + H‚ÇÇO.
286
What is atmospheric convection?
The vertical movement of air due to temperature and density differences, forming convection cells.
287
What biological method can reduce sewage pollution?
Using microbes to break down waste and absorb excess nutrients.
288
How does clearing land for biomass or biofuel crops affect ecosystems?
It causes CO‚ÇÇ release, habitat loss, soil erosion, and loss of air/water purification services.
289
Why should we care about bioaccumulation and biomagnification?
Small environmental releases of pollutants can build up to toxic levels in organisms through these processes.
290
What is the thermohaline circulation and its importance?
A global oceanic circulation pattern driven by differences in water temperature and salinity, critical for distributing heat across the planet.
291
What is one solution to phosphorus scarcity?
Recycling human and animal waste to recover phosphorus.
292
What is nitrogen fixation and why is it important for ecosystems?
Its the process that turns unusable N‚ÇÇ gas into forms plants can absorb, helping start the nitrogen cycle.
293
What is humus?
Fully decomposed organic matter that enriches soil fertility and water retention.
294
What are examples of hazardous wastes?
Motor oil, antifreeze, electronics, and industrial cleaners.
295
What powers the hydrologic cycle?
Solar energy, which drives evaporation and transpiration.
296
Why does base saturation matter in soil?
Higher base saturation generally means better soil fertility and greater nutrient availability for plants, because soil that is acidic interferes with cation uptake by plants, since plants exchange hydrogen ions for the cations they need in the soil. Too many acids in the soil interfere with Cation Exchange Capacity.
297
What role do zooxanthellae play in coral health?
They perform photosynthesis, producing sugars for coral and supporting coral energy needs and health.
298
What is water-holding capacity?
The total amount of water a soil can retain, influenced by texture and organic content.
299
Why is CO‚ÇÇ the main focus despite its lower GWP?
It is vastly more abundant than other greenhouse gases.
300
What is the only emission from a hydrogen fuel cell when powered by hydrogen from electrolysis?
Water (H‚ÇÇO) is the only emission if the hydrogen is produced from water using renewable electricity.
301
What is a pathogen?
An organism (virus, bacteria, fungus, protist, or worm) or protein that can cause infectious diseases.
302
How do endocrine disruptors impact animal endocrine systems compared to intended effects in humans?
They can cause unintended consequences because medications or chemicals designed for humans may disrupt animal hormones differently.
303
How does ocean warming affect oxygen levels in water?
Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen.
304
Give an example of synergistic effects related to air pollution.
Coal plant particulate matter worsening COVID-19 respiratory symptoms.
305
How could climate change affect agriculture?
Crop ranges shift, pests spread, and growing seasons change.
306
Why are wind farms commonly located in rural or offshore areas?
These areas have fewer obstructions, consistent winds, and available space, and make transmission and maintenance more efficient.
307
What types of transportation contribute to noise pollution?
Cars, trucks, airplanes, trains, and other motorized vehicles.
308
What units are used to measure ecological footprint?
Global hectares (gha), where one gha is a biologically productive hectare of land or water.
309
How do human activities impact the hydrologic cycle?
Activities like urbanization, deforestation, and water diversion alter water flow, reduce infiltration, and increase runoff and pollution.
310
Why is the replacement level fertility higher in less developed countries?
Due to higher infant mortality rates.
311
How does lead contamination commonly occur from aging infrastructure?
Through flaking lead-based paints and corrosion of lead water pipes.
312
What is purse seining and how does it affect marine ecosystems?
Purse seines surround entire schools of fish, drawing the bottom closed like a purse. While efficient, it captures large quantities of fish and can lead to population crashes if unmanaged.
313
What is combustion in the carbon cycle?
Burning fossil fuels or biomass, releasing stored carbon as CO‚ÇÇ.
314
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A company treats its wastewater before releasing it into a river, ensuring no harm to the aquatic ecosystem.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The company is taking responsibility to prevent pollution of a shared resource.
315
What is the orographic effect?
Climate changes caused by mountains affecting the flow and behavior of moist air.
316
How can a chain reaction in nuclear fission be described?
Neutrons from one fission strike other nuclei, causing more fission and continuing the release of energy in a self-sustaining process.
317
What are regulating services in ecosystems?
Services that control and moderate natural processes to maintain balance, like climate regulation, water purification, and pollination.
318
How does biomagnification impact humans compared to aquatic organisms?
Humans as top consumers may experience the highest pollutant concentrations, risking significant health effects.
319
What role does hydrogen play in the fuel cell?
Hydrogen serves as the fuel that is oxidized to produce electrons (electricity) and protons.
320
What environmental changes result from global warming?
Ice melting, sea level rise, changing ecosystems, and disrupted species migration.
321
What is a food web?
A complex network of interconnected food chains showing the feeding relationships within an ecosystem.
322
What is eutrophication and how is it linked to excess nitrogen?
Extra nitrogen causes algal blooms that use up oxygen and harm aquatic life.
323
What is a Hadley cell?
A convection cell in the tropics where warm air rises at the equator and sinks at 30° N and S, contributing to tropical rainforests and subtropical deserts.
324
What surfaces contribute to urban runoff?
Impervious surfaces like asphalt roads, concrete sidewalks, parking lots, and building rooftops do not allow water to infiltrate the soil. As a result, rainwater quickly flows over these surfaces, picking up pollutants and increasing the volume and velocity of runoff, which contributes to streambank erosion and pollutant transport.
325
What is competition in ecology?
When organisms vie for the same resource or niche
326
What is the formula for Growth Rate (r)?
Growth Rate = (Crude Birth Rate - Crude Death Rate) / 10.
327
How does albedo affect Earths temperature?
High-albedo surfaces reflect more solar radiation, leading to cooling.
328
How do organisms affect soil development?
Plants release acids and extract nutrients, animals burrow and mix soil, and microbes decompose organic matter.
329
How does time influence soil properties?
Older soils tend to be deeper, more developed, and more fertile due to longer exposure to weathering and biological activity.
330
Why is noise pollution considered a form of atmospheric pollution?
Although it does not involve chemicals, it physically impacts the atmosphere by introducing harmful sound energy.
331
How does agriculture produce nitrous oxide?
Synthetic fertilizers and animal manure add excess nitrogen to soils, where microbes convert it into nitrous oxide.
332
Which is more commonly used in developing countries: biomass or biofuels? Why?
Biomass, because it’s cheap, easily accessible, and used for basic needs like cooking and heating.
333
What is adiabatic heating?
Heating that occurs as sinking air compresses in higher pressure at lower altitudes.
334
What are symptoms of cholera?
Severe diarrhea, dehydration, rapid electrolyte loss, and possible death if untreated.
335
How can arsenic exposure occur?
Through contaminated groundwater or arsenic-accumulating foods like rice.
336
What are examples of organisms adapting migration patterns due to climate shifts?
Birds migrating or breeding earlier, ocean species shifting northward, and animals tracking shifting food sources.
337
A wetland filters pollutants from water before it reaches a lake. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Regulating service (water purification).
338
How can wall materials be used to support passive solar heating?
Walls made of materials with high thermal mass, like brick or concrete, can absorb sunlight during the day and release heat at night to warm the home.
339
What are some causes of amphibian decline?
Habitat loss, drought, pollution, UV radiation, parasites, disease, overhunting, and nonnative species.
340
What are examples of natural sources of particulate matter?
Sea salt, pollen, volcanic ash, wildfire smoke, and dust storms.
341
What is the phosphorus cycle?
The movement of phosphorus atoms and compounds between sources (like rocks and sediments) and sinks (like organisms and water bodies).
342
What two things do coral depend on for survival?
Symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) and stable temperatures.
343
What happens when harmful algae die and decompose?
Oxygen consumption by bacteria leads to hypoxia.
344
What treatment stage is necessary to minimize the risk of nutrient pollution leading to eutrophication?
Tertiary treatment, which targets leftover nitrates and phosphates.
345
How is tuberculosis (TB) transmitted?
Through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
346
What are two major drawbacks of recycling?
High energy costs and difficulty in finding buyers for recycled materials.
347
What are examples of passive solar cooling strategies?
Strategies include using overhangs, reflective materials, natural ventilation, and landscaping (like deciduous trees) to reduce heat gain and promote cooling.
348
What is the ecological range of tolerance?
ItsD62 the range of conditions (e.g., temperature, salinity, pH, sunlight) an organism can endure before injury or death.
349
What are the key points of Darwin’s theory of natural selection?
Excess offspring, not all survive, heritable variation, differential survival, and reproduction based on favorable traits.
350
What are two indicators that a river might be suffering from thermal pollution?
Elevated temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen levels.
351
How do you calculate energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh)?
Energy (kWh) = Power (kW) √ó Time (hours).
352
How does specialization affect a species vulnerability?
Specialist species are more prone to extinction because they cant easily adapt to environmental changes.
353
What distinguishes a primary pollutant from a secondary pollutant?
Primary pollutants are emitted directly into the atmosphere; secondary pollutants form from reactions involving primary pollutants.
354
What is the Mining Law of 1872?
A U.S. law promoting mineral exploration on federal lands with minimal cost and oversight. It lacks environmental safeguards and does not require companies to pay royalties or clean up damage.
355
What groups are used to represent ecological groups in toxicity tests?
Birds, mammals, fish, and invertebrates.
356
What type of relationship exists between corals and zooxanthellae?
Mutualism.
357
Why is the distribution of natural energy resources like coal, oil, and gas uneven across the globe?
The distribution is influenced by a regions geologic history, including past climates, biological activity, and geological processes that led to the formation of these resources.
358
What is species diversity?
The number of species in a region or habitat.
359
What impact did the rise of fracking around 2010 have on energy markets?
It increased natural gas availability, decreased its price, and led to greater use.
360
What are common sources of lead pollution in aquatic ecosystems?
Lead enters aquatic systems from old lead pipes, lead-based paints, discarded batteries, fishing sinkers, and industrial runoff.
361
Why are wetlands important for biodiversity?
They provide habitats for a diverse range of species, including many threatened and endangered ones.
362
What fishing practices harm coral reefs?
Bottom trawling, dynamite fishing, and cyanide fishing.
363
What is the role of monitoring in IPM?
Helps identify pest presence and assess population levels to determine if control actions are needed.
364
What is the purpose of protecting animal habitats?
To ensure species have safe, undisturbed areas to survive and reproduce.
365
What is a mangrove forest?
Coastal ecosystems of salt-tolerant trees growing in tropical and subtropical intertidal zones.
366
What are dry steam vs. flash steam geothermal systems?
Dry steam uses steam directly; flash steam uses high-pressure hot water that flashes into steam.
367
How does malaria affect the body?
It destroys red blood cells, causing fever, chills, anemia, and potentially death.
368
What type of pollution source is oil leaking from a damaged offshore drilling platform?
Point Source
369
What can a comparison between countries’ ecological footprints illustrate?
Disparities in consumption, development, and sustainability practices across the globe.
370
How do CFCs enter the atmosphere?
Through industrial production of refrigerants and aerosols.
371
Scientists discover a new medicine in a rainforest plant. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Cultural service (scientific knowledge/economic value).
372
What are the two main types of aquatic biomes?
Freshwater and marine
373
What is cap-and-trade for sulfur dioxide?
A program where companies buy and sell permits to emit SO‚ÇÇ, limiting total emissions and reducing pollution cost-effectively.
374
What is net primary productivity (NPP)?
GPP minus the energy used by producers for respiration; represents energy available to consumers.
375
Why is rain naturally slightly acidic even without pollution?
Because of the formation of carbonic acid from CO‚ÇÇ reacting with water.
376
What is the difference between clear-cutting and sustainable forestry practices?
Clear-cutting removes all trees in an area, often leading to ecosystem degradation, while sustainable practices aim to preserve forest functions and minimize environmental impact.
377
What is sedimentation in the context of hydroelectric dams?
The buildup of sand, silt, and organic matter behind a dam, reducing efficiency and altering ecosystems.
378
How does improving energy efficiency help reduce air pollution?
Using less energy means less fossil fuel combustion, which lowers emissions.
379
Name three industrial facilities that contribute to thermal pollution.
Steel mills, chemical plants, refineries.
380
What is the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) of 1977?
Requires coal mining companies to minimize environmental disruption and restore land post-mining. It created the OSMRE to oversee compliance and reclamation.
381
How does noise pollution impact ecosystems beyond individual organisms?
It can disrupt predator-prey relationships, mating rituals, and overall biodiversity.
382
How do scientists estimate safe human exposure from LD50 or ED50 values?
By dividing rodent study values by 1,000.
383
What impact does clearcutting have on local water cycles?
It disrupts the water cycle by reducing transpiration and increasing runoff, which can lead to flooding and altered stream flows.
384
What is shelterwood cutting?
Shelterwood cutting is a forest management technique where trees are removed gradually over multiple harvests. The first cut removes a portion of mature trees to allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, encouraging the growth of seedlings. Subsequent cuts remove the remaining mature trees once the new generation is established. This method maintains forest cover during regeneration, protects young trees from extreme weather, and supports a more continuous habitat for wildlife compared to clearcutting.
385
What is thermal pollution?
Water heated by human activities, which can stress or kill aquatic organisms.
386
What are biopesticides and how do they differ from synthetic pesticides?
Biopesticides are derived from natural sources and tend to be more environmentally friendly and pest-specific.
387
How does hydroelectric power generate electricity?
Water flows through dams, spinning turbines that power generators.
388
What determines how much water a watershed can produce from rainfall?
Its total area.
389
How does melting ice affect global albedo?
Less ice means lower albedo, absorbing more heat.
390
What are Roundup Ready crops?
GM crops modified to tolerate glyphosate, allowing farmers to use this herbicide broadly without harming the crop.
391
What disease did the Black Death refer to?
The plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, transmitted by fleas and rats.
392
What are offshore wind farms, and why are they effective?
Located in oceans or large lakes, they benefit from stronger, unobstructed winds and higher capacity factors.
393
What types of fish are found in fast-moving, high-oxygen rivers?
Trout and salmon
394
What is one disadvantage of hydrogen fuel cells?
High production costs and the current lack of hydrogen fueling infrastructure are major barriers.
395
What are the environmental impacts of La Niña?
Increased rainfall and flooding in Australia, drier conditions in South America, colder winters in the U.S., and increased Atlantic hurricane activity.
396
What factors drive human population growth?
Changes in population size, fertility, life expectancy, age structure, and migration.
397
Is a parabolic trough system used in CSP passive or active?
Active; it uses mechanical systems to concentrate sunlight and generate electricity.
398
Why is CEC important for soil fertility?
Higher CEC allows soil to retain and supply more nutrients to plants.
399
How can government policies affect energy source use?
By mandating energy mix targets, applying taxes, or offering tax credits for renewable energy.
400
What type of radiation can destroy ozone molecules?
UV-B and UV-C radiation can break O3 back into O2 and a free oxygen atom.
401
How does monoculture farming threaten biodiversity?
It reduces genetic diversity, making crops vulnerable to pests and diseases.
402
Why are mosquitoes particularly dangerous in disease transmission?
They spread diseases like malaria, Zika virus, West Nile Virus, dengue fever, and yellow fever.
403
What causes SARS and how is it spread?
A coronavirus spread through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces.
404
What is the role of decomposition in the carbon cycle?
Decomposers break down dead matter, returning carbon to the soil and releasing CO‚ÇÇ into the air.
405
What does the First Law of Thermodynamics state?
Energy can neither be created nor destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
406
What is overshoot in population ecology?
When a population briefly exceeds the carrying capacity.
407
What is thermal expansion?
Water molecules move apart as they warm, causing the ocean to expand.
408
What behaviors can decrease ecological and carbon footprints?
Using renewable energy, public transportation, adopting a plant-based diet, and reducing consumption and travel.
409
How long are global oil and natural gas reserves estimated to last at current consumption rates?
Oil reserves are estimated to last approximately 47 years, while natural gas reserves could last about 53 years.
410
How can deforestation impact the hydrologic cycle?
It reduces transpiration and infiltration, increases surface runoff, and can lead to reduced water availability.
411
What pollutants contribute to the formation of tropospheric ozone?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO‚ÇÇ) emissions from vehicle exhaust and power plants.
412
Why is nuclear energy considered cleaner than fossil fuels?
It produces no air pollutants or greenhouse gases like CO‚ÇÇ, CH‚ÇÑ, SOx, NOx, or PM during electricity generation.
413
What is the role of the U.S. Forest Service in clearcutting practices?
The agency manages national forests, balancing timber production with conservation efforts.
414
What is the purpose of a cooling tower in geothermal power?
To condense used steam back into water for reinjection.
415
How do tar sands affect oil resource availability?
Tar sands, particularly in Canadas Alberta province, have expanded the availability of oil resources, though extraction is energy-intensive and environmentally impactful.
416
What is an open dump?
An exposed pile of garbage posing serious environmental and health risks.
417
What is the short (fast) carbon cycle?
The rapid movement of carbon through living organisms via photosynthesis and respiration.
418
How do thermal inversions affect visibility?
They reduce visibility due to the buildup of smog and haze.
419
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A city implements strict regulations on industrial emissions to improve air quality.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. Government regulation is preventing the overuse and degradation of a shared resource.
420
Define biomes/ecosystems.
Biomes or ecosystems are large regions defined by climate, flora, and fauna, where organisms interact with each other and their environment
421
Give examples of pathogens that can spread without poor sanitation.
Influenza, SARS, MERS, West Nile Virus.
422
What are density-independent limiting factors?
Abiotic disruptions such as weather, temperature changes, human activity, and natural disasters that impact populations regardless of size.
423
What influences the pace of evolution?
The rate of genetic change, species lifespan, and the degree of environmental change all affect how quickly evolution occurs.
424
What major recognition did Norman Borlaug receive for his contributions to agriculture?
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his role in combating hunger and promoting peace through increased food security.
425
How can global warming impact ecological tolerance?
It can shift conditions outside the range of tolerance, causing species decline or death.
426
How does decomposition function as a regulating service?
It recycles key atoms like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in ecosystems.
427
How does deforestation impact the carbon cycle?
It reduces CO‚ÇÇ absorption, increasing atmospheric carbon and disrupting the natural balance.
428
What are potential environmental drawbacks of aquaculture?
Waste from fish (nitrogen, phosphorus), uneaten feed, and chemicals can contaminate nearby waters. Escaped species may also harm ecosystems through hybridization, competition, or disease spread.
429
How do tar sands affect oil resource availability?
Tar sands, particularly in Canadas Alberta province, have expanded the availability of oil resources, though extraction is energy-intensive and environmentally impactful.
430
What harmful gases are released by vehicle engines before catalytic converters treat the exhaust?
Carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrocarbons (HCs).
431
What is one benefit of using hydrogen fuel cells in vehicles?
They offer longer driving ranges and quicker refueling times compared to electric batteries.
432
What characterizes the C horizon?
Composed of partially weathered parent material with minimal biological activity.
433
What is sea level rise’s impact on estuaries?
It floods estuaries with saltwater, changing their delicate ecosystems.
434
What is the asthenosphere?
A semi-molten layer of the mantle that allows plate movement.
435
What organization maintains the Red List of endangered species?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
436
What is the relative frequency of an allele?
It is the proportion of a specific allele compared to other alleles of the same gene in a population.
437
What occurs during Phase 2 (Transitional) of the demographic transition?
Death rates decline due to improved healthcare, sanitation, and food access; birth rates remain high, leading to rapid population growth.
438
Are living organisms carbon reservoirs?
Yes, they store carbon temporarily in tissues through organic molecules.
439
What are eutrophic waterways?
Waterways high in nutrients, low in dissolved oxygen, and with unstable algae populations that show boom-and-bust cycles.
440
How does clearcutting affect recreational use of forests?
It can diminish aesthetic value and reduce opportunities for activities like hiking and wildlife viewing.
441
What device is recommended to detect radon levels in homes?
An airborne radon detector.
442
What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?
Organic molecules that easily evaporate at room temperature and are carbon-based, such as gasoline vapors, paints, and tree emissions.
443
What are risks associated with subsurface mining?
Poor ventilation, toxic gas buildup, shaft collapses, fires, explosions, and long-term health issues like black lung.
444
How does climate change relate to ocean acidification?
Both are primarily driven by increased atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ levels.
445
How does compost benefit the soil compared to synthetic fertilizers?
Compost improves soil by adding organic matter, which enhances water retention, supports beneficial microbes, and improves nutrient cycling. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, compost feeds soil ecosystems over time, not just plants in the short term.
446
What is sludge in wastewater treatment?
The collected inorganic solid waste from the bottom of tanks, often landfilled or incinerated.
447
What is the pH level of unpolluted rain?
About 5.6.
448
What is an endocrine disruptor and how do they interfere with the bodys normal hormonal functions?
Chemicals that mimic, block, or interfere with the bodys hormones by binding to hormone receptors.
449
Define eccentricity in the context of Earths orbit.
It describes how Earths orbit changes from more circular to more elliptical over a 100,000-year cycle.
450
What does the second law of thermodynamics state?
Energy transformation does not change the quantity of energy, but reduces its ability to do work.
451
What are the characteristics of agricultural watersheds?
Soil compaction, erosion, and nutrient runoff from fertilizers and manure.
452
Why is the thermohaline circulation important?
It redistributes heat, nutrients, and oxygen around the globe.
453
What is the demographic transition model?
A model that describes population change over time as a country develops economically, typically in four stages.
454
What happens to marine shells in more acidic oceans?
They weaken, dissolve, and organisms struggle to maintain them.
455
How does agriculture affect the carbon cycle?
Practices like tilling and livestock farming release CO‚ÇÇ and methane, increasing greenhouse gas levels.
456
What is General Fertility Rate?
The number of live births per 1,000 women aged 15-49 in a given year.
457
Why are metals like copper and aluminum valuable to recycle?
Recycling saves energy and resources compared to mining new metals.
458
What is a limiting factor in freshwater lakes and rivers?
Often phosphorus.
459
What is the slash-and-burn method?
A land-clearing technique involving cutting and burning vegetation, releasing greenhouse gases and contributing to deforestation.
460
What is the primary benefit of using pesticides in agriculture?
Pesticides can significantly reduce crop losses caused by pests, leading to increased short-term agricultural productivity and profits.
461
What is the significance of atmospheric convection cells?
They distribute heat and moisture around Earth, influencing climate and weather patterns.
462
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Residents of a city frequently drive their cars, leading to increased air pollution and health issues.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The air is a shared resource, and individual actions contribute to its degradation, affecting the entire population.
463
What role do forest certification programs play in sustainable forestry?
Forest certification programs evaluate how forests are managed and certify that the products—like lumber or paper—come from operations that follow environmentally responsible practices. These programs check if foresters are protecting biodiversity, using sustainable harvesting methods, and respecting the rights of local communities.
464
What human activities are primarily responsible for urban noise pollution?
Transportation, construction, and domestic and industrial activities.
465
What are potential consequences of Phase 4 (postindustrial) population trends?
Shrinking workforce, increased healthcare costs for the elderly, and potential economic challenges.
466
Define thermal shock.
Sudden temperature increases that stress or kill aquatic organisms.
467
Is ethanol a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable (conditionally) – it’s renewable if sourced sustainably from crops like corn, but can be depletable if soil and replanting arent managed properly.
468
What is Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?
A model in which allele frequencies remain constant if five conditions are met: large population, random mating, no mutation, no migration, and no selection.
469
What are the prevailing winds in a Polar cell?
Polar easterlies, blowing from the east.
470
How does acid rain make toxic metals more dangerous?
Acidic soils release toxic metals like aluminum into the soil and water, harming plants and animals.
471
What role does evolution play in pathogen spread?
Evolution helps pathogens adapt to new hosts, resist drugs, and survive environmental changes.
472
What are dioxins and how are they produced?
Dioxins are a group of chemically-related compounds formed during combustion processes, such as waste incineration.
473
What is ammonification and what role does it play in recycling nitrogen?
It breaks down waste and dead matter to release ammonia, recycling nitrogen back into the soil.
474
Why is ground-level (tropospheric) ozone harmful?
It acts as a respiratory irritant, worsens asthma, bronchitis, and COPD, and contributes to photochemical smog.
475
What is coral bleaching?
A stress response where corals expel algae due to warming, pollution, or other stressors, turning corals white and often leading to death.
476
What are key environmental benefits of geothermal energy?
No combustion, low CO‚ÇÇ, no PM, SOx, NOx, or CO emissions.
477
How does clearcutting contribute to climate change?
It releases stored carbon dioxide from trees and soil into the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect.
478
What is the process by which nitrates are leached from soil?
Rainwater dissolves nitrates, carrying them into groundwater or surface water through runoff.
479
What is the Limnetic Zone?
Open water area with floating algae, no rooted plants
480
What is the waste stream?
The flow of all solid waste from its source to final disposal or recycling.
481
What characteristics make invasive species so successful?
Rapid reproduction, generalist diets, ability to live in many habitats, and lack of natural predators.
482
How does erosion degrade ecosystems?
It removes nutrient-rich topsoil, reducing fertility and increasing sediment pollution in water.
483
What happens if farmed fish escape into the wild?
Escaped fish—especially genetically modified or non-native species—can outcompete native species, alter gene pools, or become invasive, disrupting local food webs and biodiversity.
484
How is growth rate expressed?
As a percentage (% increase per year).
485
How does the ITCZ shift seasonally?
It moves north or south with the most direct solar radiation, affecting monsoon patterns.
486
How do septic tank upgrades help wetlands?
They reduce human sewage leakage into nearby water bodies.
487
What are examples of limiting factors for population growth?
Light, water, space, competition, predation, and disease.
488
What is the current average U.S. ecological footprint in Earths?
Approximately 5.1 Earths — meaning if everyone consumed like the average American, we would need 5.1 Earths to sustain it.
489
What is the mesosphere?
The atmospheric layer above the stratosphere, between 50 and 80 km, where temperatures again decrease with altitude.
490
How do prescribed burns help with nutrient cycling?
Prescribed burns help with nutrient cycling by breaking down dead plant materials and turning them into ash, which returns nutrients to the soil and supports new plant growth.
491
What are the characteristics of desert watersheds?
Sandy soils, limited rainfall, and minimal groundwater recharge.
492
How do emerald ash borer larvae kill trees?
By burrowing into the bark and disrupting nutrient transport.
493
What are several personal actions individuals can take to reduce air pollution?
Carpooling; biking or walking; conserving electricity; reducing meat consumption; using energy-efficient appliances; maintaining vehicles.
494
What is the main issue with synthetic fertilizers?
While synthetic fertilizers quickly boost plant growth, they do not add organic matter to the soil, leading to reduced water retention and microbial health. They are also easily leached, contaminating groundwater and contributing to nutrient pollution and eutrophication.
495
What are subsistence fuels and where are they commonly used?
Easily gathered materials like wood and manure used mainly in developing countries for cooking and heating.
496
What are the pros and cons of using GMOs in agriculture?
Pros: Higher yields, pest and drought resistance, larger plant size, and profitability. Cons: Reduced genetic diversity and increased susceptibility to disease and pests.
497
How does precipitation contribute to the hydrologic cycle?
It returns water from the atmosphere to Earths surface as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
498
Why is ozone depletion considered a global environmental issue?
Local human activities (CFC use) have atmospheric effects that impact the entire planets ecosystems and climate.
499
What does the ESA allow the government to do?
Designate species as endangered and purchase habitat for their protection.
500
What factors increase a person’s ecological footprint?
High affluence, large homes, frequent travel, high meat consumption, and fossil fuel use.
501
What is the difference between the greenhouse effect and ozone depletion?
The greenhouse effect traps heat in the troposphere, while ozone depletion weakens Earths protection from ultraviolet radiation in the stratosphere.
502
How does bioaccumulation differ from biomagnification?
Bioaccumulation happens within a single organism over time, while biomagnification occurs across trophic levels in a food chain.
503
Which three countries hold the largest natural gas reserves?
Russia, Iran, and Qatar have the largest natural gas reserves.
504
How is methane managed in landfills?
Methane recovery systems collect it to prevent explosions and produce energy.
505
How does reforestation contribute to sustainable forestry?
Reforestation helps replenish harvested areas, maintaining carbon storage, preventing erosion, and preserving biodiversity.
506
What major oil spill harmed wildlife in 2010?
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
507
Communities collect wild berries and seeds for food. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Provisioning service (naturally grown foods).
508
What is Total Fertility Rate (TFR)?
The average number of children a woman in a population will bear throughout her lifetime.
509
What is quantitative risk assessment?
Calculating risk numerically as probability of exposure √ó probability of harm.
510
What has been the effect of BT crops on insecticide use?
They have reduced the need for external insecticides since the plants produce their own pest-killing proteins.
511
How much of Earth’s water is freshwater?
Less than 3%, and less than 1% is accessible for human use.
512
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
IPM is an approach that combines various pest control methods in a strategic, environmentally-conscious order, minimizing pesticide use.
513
What is axial precession?
The gradual wobble that changes the orientation of Earths axis over 26,000 years, altering timing of seasons.
514
What is a biosphere reserve?
A protected area with zones of varying human impact to conserve biodiversity while allowing sustainable use.
515
What are electrostatic precipitators?
Devices that use electric charges to remove particulate matter from emissions.
516
What is the threshold dose?
The minimum dose that elicits a detectable biological response.
517
What is the Asbestos Hazard and Emergency Control Act of 1986?
U.S. legislation that mandated the phasing out of asbestos use by 1997.
518
Does a climax community always consist of large trees?
No, it can be grasses in prairies or cacti in deserts.
519
How does soot pollution accelerate ice melt?
It darkens ice, lowering its albedo and increasing heat absorption.
520
What is risk acceptance?
Determining the level of risk society or individuals are willing to tolerate.
521
What human activities contribute arsenic to drinking water supplies?
Mining operations, pesticide use, industrial waste discharge, and groundwater extraction disturbing natural arsenic deposits.
522
What is nitrous oxide (N‚ÇÇO)?
Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and ozone depletion.
523
Is nuclear energy (uranium) a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Nonrenewable – uranium exists in finite amounts and cannot be regenerated.
524
What is a trophic cascade, and how does overfishing cause it?
A trophic cascade is a ripple effect in an ecosystem. Overfishing predators reduces pressure on prey, allowing their populations to boom and affecting species further down the food web.
525
What risks do specialists face on islands?
They are more vulnerable to invasive generalist species and extinction.
526
How will climate change impact soil?
Changes in temperature and precipitation will increase erosion, desertification, or flooding.
527
What are persistent organic pollutants (POPs)?
Compounds like pesticides and pharmaceuticals that resist microbial breakdown and remain after treatment.
528
What is the primary source of methane emissions?
Gut bacteria in livestock, landfills, and fossil fuel production.
529
What is monocropping?
Monocropping is the agricultural practice of growing one species of crop in large quantities, which makes harvesting and treatment efficient but reduces biodiversity, increases pest vulnerability, and causes soil erosion.
530
What strategies can mitigate landfill impacts?
Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Incinerate waste.
531
What are the prevailing winds in a Ferrell cell?
Westerlies, blowing from the west toward the east.
532
Provide multiple examples of successful common resource management.
Community forest management in Nepal; Regulated water-sharing in Spain’s irrigation communities; Sustainable fisheries management in Alaska; Japanese coastal fisheries with local rules; Indigenous land management practices in Australia.
533
What are the key features of a watershed?
Area, length, slope, soil type, vegetation, and watershed divides.
534
How do buffer zones protect forests and waterways?
Buffer zones are strips of vegetation—usually trees, shrubs, and grasses—that are left or planted between human activities and sensitive areas such as rivers or wetlands. These zones act like natural filters: they slow down rainwater runoff, allowing sediments to settle before reaching the water, and they absorb or block pollutants like fertilizers and pesticides. By doing this, buffer zones protect the water quality and help preserve aquatic ecosystems.
535
Who occupies the first trophic level in a food chain?
Primary producers (autotrophs), such as plants and algae.
536
Why do invasive species often thrive in new environments?
They typically have no natural predators and are highly adaptable.
537
What happens during denitrification and which organisms perform it?
Bacteria convert nitrates in soil back to N‚ÇÇ gas, finishing the nitrogen cycle.
538
How does drought affect plant species in terms of tolerance?
Drought can reduce soil moisture, making conditions intolerable for some plants, leading to population decline.
539
What is a specialist species?
A species with a narrow ecological niche and specific food requirements, making it more prone to extinction and less adaptable to new conditions.
540
How do dams help manage seasonal flooding?
They regulate river flow, preventing floods and allowing settlements closer to rivers.
541
In a scientific experiment on PM, what could be a dependent variable?
The amount of PM collected on petri dishes at different distances from pollution sources.
542
What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?
Microevolution is change below the species level, while macroevolution can lead to new species or higher taxa.
543
What is overgrazing and why is it harmful?
When too many animals graze one area, stripping vegetation, causing soil erosion, compaction, and potentially desertification.
544
What limits a species’ realized niche?
Biotic factors such as competition, predation, and disease.
545
What is mixed land use and how does it help reduce urban sprawl?
It integrates residential, business, and entertainment areas to make cities more livable and reduce the need to move to suburbs.
546
How can storm patterns affect coral reefs?
Stronger storms physically damage reefs.
547
What is a practical challenge to adopting hydrogen fuel cells in transportation?
Lack of widespread hydrogen fueling infrastructure and the need for large fuel tanks in vehicles.
548
What is the primary use of oil in global energy consumption?
Oil is mainly used as gasoline for transportation.
549
What is the primary pollutant removed in primary treatment?
Large physical debris such as plastics, toilet paper, and leaves.
550
Why are coral reefs biodiversity hotspots?
They support over a million species of marine life
551
How does mercury enter aquatic food webs?
Through deposition from the atmosphere into water bodies where bacteria convert it into toxic methylmercury.
552
Bees pollinate crops in an agricultural field. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Regulating service (pollination).
553
What is the significance of the Endangered Species Act in forestry?
It protects habitats of endangered species, potentially restricting clearcutting in sensitive areas.
554
How do pollutants act as stressors for aquatic organisms?
Pollutants can block gills, disrupt hormones, cause suffocation, reduce food availability, and directly poison organisms.
555
What is tobacco smoke and why is it dangerous?
A combustion product containing multiple toxins; it is a leading cause of indoor lung cancer.
556
How do volcanic eruptions influence the carbon cycle?
They release carbon from Earths interior into the atmosphere as CO‚ÇÇ, adding to the atmospheric carbon pool.
557
What happens to polar bear populations due to melting sea ice?
They lose hunting grounds, leading to population declines.
558
Why does melting permafrost contribute to climate change?
Thawing permafrost releases methane gas from anaerobic decomposition, adding a powerful greenhouse gas to the atmosphere.
559
What happens to fish respiration rates in warmer water?
Fish increase their respiration rate due to lower oxygen availability.
560
Name two examples of environmental disasters caused by pollution in the U.S.
Deepwater Horizon oil spill, Exxon Valdez oil spill, Love Canal disaster, Flint water crisis, Three Mile Island incident, Cuyahoga River fires, Valley of the Drums toxic waste site, Hudson River PCB contamination, Gold King Mine spill, Santa Barbara oil spill.
561
How do you calculate population density?
Population Density = Population / Land Area.
562
Under normal conditions in the troposphere, how does air temperature change with altitude?
In the troposphere, temperature typically decreases by about 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet of altitude, allowing warm air and pollutants to rise.
563
How does overfishing contribute to biodiversity loss?
Overfishing reduces species numbers, disrupts food webs, and can cause extinction of marine species, severely impacting marine biodiversity.
564
How do volcanoes affect greenhouse gases?
They release CO‚ÇÇ and ash that can temporarily cool the planet.
565
What characterizes an r-selected species?
Many offspring, little or no parental care, short lifespan, high biotic potential, and rapid population growth.
566
Which atmospheric layer contains the most water vapor?
The troposphere.
567
What is the main benefit of irrigation in agriculture?
Irrigation allows farming in areas that are too dry by providing crops with artificial water sources, enabling food production in arid regions.
568
What are PCBs and their environmental impact?
PCBs are industrial chemicals that persist in the environment, bioaccumulate in organisms, and can cause various health effects.
569
How does urban runoff cause thermal pollution?
Heated runoff from paved surfaces enters streams, raising water temperature.
570
What is a secondary pollutant?
A pollutant formed when a primary pollutant reacts in the atmosphere, like nitric acid and sulfuric acid.
571
What is electrolysis in the context of hydrogen production?
Electrolysis is a method of producing hydrogen by splitting water using electricity, ideally from renewable sources.
572
Why do invasive species often thrive in new environments?
They usually have no natural predators and are generalists that adapt quickly.
573
Why do native plants contribute to energy conservation?
They reduce water needs, lowering the energy required for water purification and pumping, and also increase biodiversity.
574
Why are coral reefs vital to marine biodiversity?
They provide habitat, food, and shelter for thousands of marine species.
575
How does secondary treatment reduce nutrient pollution?
By biologically breaking down organic waste, reducing about 70% of phosphorus and 50% of nitrogen.
576
How do perennial crops contribute to sustainable farming?
Perennials are crops that live multiple years, allowing their roots to anchor soil year-round. They reduce bare soil exposure, enhance moisture retention, and decrease the frequency of tilling or planting, thus minimizing erosion and disturbance.
577
What type of pollution source is wastewater discharge from a sewage treatment plant?
Point Source
578
What is the primary cause of rising greenhouse gas concentrations?
Human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.
579
Where are feedback loops commonly found?
In Anatomy & Physiology and complex systems like Ecology.
580
What is a vector? Give examples.
A vector is an organism that transmits a pathogen. Examples: mosquitoes (malaria, Zika), fleas (plague), ticks (Lyme disease).
581
What is chromosomal recombination?
Chromosomal recombination is the exchange of genetic material (e.g. crossing over in meiosis) that increases diversity.
582
What role do deciduous shade trees play in energy conservation?
They block sunlight in summer to reduce cooling needs and allow sunlight in winter to help with natural heating.
583
What are the characteristics of forested watersheds?
High infiltration, minimal runoff, and evapotranspiration dominates the water cycle.
584
How efficient are fossil fuel power plants, and what factors influence their efficiency?
Fossil fuel power plant efficiency is the percentage of chemical energy in fuel converted to electricity. Coal (~30%), natural gas (~60%), cogeneration (~90%). Efficiency depends on fuel type, technology, and waste heat recovery.
585
What is Replacement Level Fertility?
The TFR required to offset deaths in a population and keep the population size stable, about 2.1 in developed countries.
586
What are density-independent factors?
Factors like natural disasters that affect populations regardless of size.
587
How does the second law of thermodynamics relate to ecosystems?
As energy moves through trophic levels, its usefulness (ability to do work) decreases.
588
What is a smart grid?
A modern electricity system that integrates multiple energy sources, allows two-way energy flow, uses smart meters, and helps manage demand efficiently.
589
How does latitude affect climate?
As latitude decreases (closer to the equator), average temperature increases; lower latitudes also have smaller annual temperature ranges.
590
What is a real-world example of a secondary pollutant forming in the atmosphere?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO‚ÇÇ) reacting with water to form nitric acid (HNO‚ÇÉ), which contributes to acid rain.
591
What is a Polar cell?
A convection cell that forms between 60° latitude and the poles, where cold, dense air sinks at the poles and moves toward 60°.
592
What is permeability in soil?
The rate at which water and air move through soil; high in sand, low in clay.
593
What is a thermal inversion?
A weather phenomenon where a layer of warm air traps a layer of cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants.
594
What are economic advantages of aquaculture?
It supports rural livelihoods, reduces dependence on seafood imports, and has high growth potential in global markets. With proper investment and regulation, it can boost national economies sustainably.
595
What is chemical weathering?
Breakdown of rocks through chemical reactions, such as acid rain dissolving limestone.
596
What is cultural pest control?
Adjusting farming practices (e.g., timing, spacing, intercropping) to reduce pest buildup naturally.
597
What is a tree plantation, and how is it related to clearcutting?
A tree plantation is an area where a single tree species is planted and harvested in cycles, often following clearcutting, leading to reduced biodiversity.
598
What pollutants are commonly trapped during a thermal inversion?
Smog, particulate matter (PM‚ÇÇ.‚ÇÖ, PM‚ÇÅ‚ÇÄ), ground-level ozone (O‚ÇÉ), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ).
599
Name two major strategies used to reduce air pollution.
Regulatory practices and technological innovations.
600
What are the consequences of a destabilized jet stream?
Increased extreme weather, like cold spells and heat waves.
601
What characterizes a Type III survivorship curve?
High infant mortality and low survivorship early in life, with survivorship gradually improving for those that reach mid and late life.
602
What defines the B horizon in soil?
Its a mineral-rich zone where leached materials like iron, aluminum, and clay accumulate.
603
What is assimilation in the nitrogen cycle and how do plants and animals participate in it?
Plants absorb nitrates and make proteins; animals eat plants to get nitrogen.
604
How does climate affect soil formation?
Warmer and wetter climates accelerate decomposition and weathering, promoting faster soil formation.
605
What type of pollution source is fertilizer runoff from multiple farms into a stream?
Nonpoint Source
606
How does habitat fragmentation impact species?
It increases edge effects, reduces habitat size, and exposes species to more predators and competitors.
607
What is asbestos?
A fibrous silicate mineral once used in insulation that can cause lung diseases.
608
Identify the type of pollutant that radon is and describe how it affects human health.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas; long-term exposure can cause lung cancer due to inhaled radioactive particles damaging lung tissue.
609
What happens during tertiary treatment?
Ecological or chemical processes remove remaining pollutants like nitrogen and phosphorus.
610
How are Earths rotation and revolution different?
Rotation causes day and night; revolution, along with axial tilt, causes seasons.
611
Explain how the combustion of biomass indoors can lead to increased respiratory illness in developing countries.
Biomass combustion releases CO, PM, NOx, and VOCs in poorly ventilated homes, leading to buildup of toxins that cause lung damage and diseases like asthma and bronchitis.
612
What is ecological tolerance?
The range of abiotic conditions under which a species can survive, grow, and reproduce; also known as the fundamental niche.
613
What is thermal expansion’s contribution to sea level rise compared to ice melt?
It works alongside melting glaciers and ice sheets, making thermal expansion one of the two major causes of sea level rise.
614
How does pollution harm biodiversity?
By introducing toxins, disrupting reproductive systems, causing dead zones, and making habitats uninhabitable.
615
What is the water table?
The upper level of an area where soil and rock are fully saturated with groundwater.
616
How is risk assessment performed?
Identifying hazards, conducting dose-response analysis, and assessing exposure.
617
Name three human activities that threaten wetlands.
Commercial development, dam construction, and pollution from agriculture and industry.
618
How does overgrazing illustrate the Tragedy of the Commons?
Each herder adds more livestock to shared land to increase profit, which leads to vegetation loss, soil erosion, and eventual land degradation.
619
What percentage of the world’s population lives within 1 meter of sea level?
About 100 million people.
620
How does strategic landscaping contribute to passive solar design?
Planting trees or shrubs to shade buildings in summer and allow sun in during winter can naturally regulate temperature and reduce energy use.
621
What are examples of competition leading to endangerment?
Shenandoah salamander vs. rival salamanders, native mussels vs. zebra mussels, native birds vs. cowbirds.
622
What is Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)?
The number of deaths of children under age 1 per 1,000 live births.
623
How does ocean warming indirectly affect human economies?
It disrupts fisheries by altering fish distributions, reducing commercially valuable species, and affecting industries like shellfish harvesting.
624
Why is coal still widely used despite its environmental impact?
Coal is abundant, easy to extract/transport, inexpensive, and requires little refining, making it ideal for power plants.
625
What is one major health effect of lead poisoning in children?
Lowered IQ and developmental delays.
626
How does waterlogging affect plant health?
Without oxygen, plant roots can’t function properly, leading to stunted growth or death.
627
What is long-lining, and how does it contribute to overfishing?
Long-lining uses a line up to 20 miles long with baited hooks. It efficiently captures large quantities of fish but also results in bycatch of sharks, turtles, and seabirds.
628
Why is recycling considered less sustainable than reducing or reusing?
Recycling requires significant energy input for processing, sorting, and transporting materials.
629
List examples of secondary pollutants.
Ozone (O‚ÇÉ), sulfuric acid (H‚ÇÇSO‚ÇÑ), nitric acid (HNO‚ÇÉ), and peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs).
630
How does slope affect a watershed?
Steeper slopes increase runoff and erosion; flatter areas promote infiltration.
631
What is the environmental impact of burning biomass?
It releases CO‚ÇÇ, CO, NOx, particulate matter, and VOCs, contributing to deforestation and air pollution.
632
How does the Coriolis effect affect hurricanes?
It causes hurricanes to spin counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
633
Why are K-selected species more likely to be affected by environmental changes?
Their slow reproductive rate and reliance on parental care make them less adaptable.
634
What are the main layers of soil, known as soil horizons?
O (organic), A (topsoil), E (eluviation), B (subsoil), C (parent material), R (bedrock, optional in some models).
635
What are the climate conditions in woodland/shrubland regions?
Hot dry summers, rainy winters
636
What human activity contributes methane through fossil fuels?
Extraction and combustion of natural gas.
637
What is petroleum and how is it formed?
Petroleum is a fluid mix of hydrocarbons formed from ancient marine algae in porous rock covered by impermeable layers.
638
What risks are associated with manure lagoons?
Flooding can contaminate groundwater and surface waters with nitrogen, E. coli, hormones, and antibiotics, and release N‚ÇÇO through denitrification.
639
What are the two types of ecological succession?
Primary succession and secondary succession.
640
How are hydrogen fuel cells and electrolysis connected in sustainable energy systems?
Electrolysis can produce hydrogen using renewable electricity, which can then be used in hydrogen fuel cells to generate clean electricity later.
641
What is a genetically modified (GM) crop?
A crop whose DNA has been altered to express traits like pest resistance or herbicide tolerance, often reducing pesticide use.
642
How does noise pollution affect human health?
It can cause physiological stress and hearing loss.
643
What is masking in the context of noise pollution?
When important biological sounds are drowned out by human-made noise, preventing effective communication or hunting.
644
What percentage of GPP becomes NPP?
About 40%.
645
What species typically start primary succession?
Pioneer species like lichens that do not need soil to survive.
646
How can ecological footprint data be used in policy-making?
It can inform decisions about energy use, conservation programs, urban planning, and sustainable agriculture to reduce environmental impact.
647
What are the health risks of radon exposure?
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.
648
How does cap-and-trade reduce pollution?
It sets a limit on total emissions and allows companies to trade permits, encouraging innovation and lower emissions.
649
Is combustion a source, sink, or reservoir?
It is a carbon source—it releases CO₂ into the atmosphere.
650
What are endocrine disruptors, and how do they impact wetlands?
Chemicals that interfere with hormones; they pollute wetlands and harm wildlife.
651
Why is aeration important in secondary treatment?
It provides oxygen for aerobic bacteria to efficiently break down organic waste.
652
What limiting factors are common in open ocean ecosystems?
Nitrogen, silica, iron, and sometimes dissolved oxygen (DO).
653
How do wildlife overpasses benefit animals?
They allow safe crossings over roads, reconnecting fragmented habitats.
654
Why is replanting the same species after logging important?
It maintains the original forest composition, supports native wildlife, and helps preserve biodiversity.
655
What is a sanitary landfill?
An engineered waste site with features to prevent environmental contamination.
656
How can the edge effect reduce biodiversity?
It can allow invasive or generalist species to dominate, crowding out specialist species.
657
What do decomposers do?
Decomposers break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the environment
658
Why do K-selected species have slower population growth rates?
Due to low biotic potential, long time to reach sexual maturity, and fewer offspring.
659
How long is leachate collection mandated after a landfill is closed?
30 years.
660
How does habitat fragmentation affect animal movement?
It restricts movement, hunting, breeding, and genetic exchange among populations.
661
Why are fly ash and bottom ash ponds environmental hazards?
They can leak toxic heavy metals into groundwater, rivers, and agricultural soils.
662
What is the albedo effect?
The reflection of solar radiation by Earths surface, where ice reflects more sunlight than dark surfaces like ocean.
663
What pollution do electrostatic precipitators mainly control?
Particulate matter.
664
What are examples of environmental hazards considered in risk assessments?
Pollutants, chemical contaminants, human activities (e.g., driving), and natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes).
665
What are the primary pollutants that cause acid deposition?
Sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ) and nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì).
666
How does tropospheric ozone impact human health?
It causes respiratory irritation, reduces lung function, and worsens asthma.
667
Why does the government often lose money on commercial timber operations?
The government spends more on forest management than it receives in royalties from logging, effectively subsidizing the industry.
668
How do organic fertilizers compare to synthetic ones?
Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure release nutrients slowly because they rely on microbial decomposition. This gradual release supports long-term soil health, enhances water retention, and reduces the risk of nutrient runoff and eutrophication.
669
What is primary succession?
Ecological succession occurring on surfaces with bare rock and no soil.
670
What are common problems associated with improper e-waste disposal?
Environmental contamination, health risks to humans, and exploitation of cheap labor in developing nations.
671
What is the estimated lifespan of global coal reserves at current consumption rates?
Estimates suggest that coal reserves could last between 133 and 435 years, depending on consumption rates and technological developments.
672
What wind speed range is needed for wind turbines to generate electricity?
Large-scale wind turbines typically start operating at wind speeds of 7–9 mph and shut down at around 55 mph to prevent damage.
673
How does deforestation contribute to increased CO‚ÇÇ levels?
It removes trees that absorb CO‚ÇÇ and releases carbon when trees are burned or decay.
674
What three factors are aquatic biomes classified by?
Salinity, depth, and water flow
675
What is commensalism?
A relationship where one organism benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed
676
How does overharvesting affect species?
It removes individuals faster than populations can naturally replenish, leading to decline or extinction.
677
Why is controlling phosphorus runoff critical in freshwater ecosystems?
Because cyanobacteria in freshwater can fix nitrogen, so phosphorus becomes the key limiting nutrient.
678
What effect does melting polar and glacial ice have on sea levels?
It adds freshwater to the oceans, contributing to rising sea levels.
679
Why is methane production an indicator of anaerobic conditions?
It forms when decomposition occurs without oxygen, common in wetlands or permafrost.
680
Why are fracking and tar sands not considered sustainable long-term solutions?
Both methods rely on non-renewable resources and have significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, making them unsustainable in the long term.
681
Give multiple examples of the "commons dilemma".
Tourists leaving litter in national parks; Boaters dumping waste into shared lakes; Excessive CO‚ÇÇ emissions causing climate change; Overextraction of minerals from public lands; Using antibiotics in livestock, leading to resistant bacteria.
682
What characterizes a Type I survivorship curve?
High survivorship early and mid-life due to parental care and size, with rapid decline in old age; common in most mammals.
683
How does DDT impact bird populations?
DDT causes thinning of eggshells, leading to decreased hatchling survival rates.
684
What year was the Clean Air Act passed and what does it regulate?
The Clean Air Act was passed in 1970. It regulates air pollution by setting limits on emissions of specific harmful pollutants from transportation, industrial facilities, power plants, and even household sources. The law focuses on six major criteria air pollutants: sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ), nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM‚ÇÅ‚ÇÄ and PM‚ÇÇ.‚ÇÖ), ozone (O‚ÇÉ), and lead (Pb).
685
What is NIMBY?
"Not In My Backyard" — opposition to having a landfill near ones home.
686
What role does sea level rise play in saltwater intrusion?
It raises ocean levels due to thermal expansion and melting ice, further promoting the contamination of freshwater aquifers.
687
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A private company overextracts groundwater from its own property, causing nearby wells to dry up.
Yes, this can be considered a tragedy of the commons if the aquifer is a shared resource, and overuse by one party affects others.
688
What can ecological footprint data reveal about a countrys sustainability?
If a country’s footprint exceeds its biocapacity, it indicates ecological overshoot, meaning the country is consuming resources faster than its ecosystems can regenerate them.
689
Why are amphibians especially vulnerable to environmental change?
Their permeable skin makes them sensitive to pollutants and habitat changes.
690
Why has aquaculture expanded in recent years?
It offers efficient production, requires less land and fuel than traditional animal agriculture, and is capable of supplying high-protein food as global fish demand rises.
691
What is chemosynthesis?
Chemosynthesis is when autotrophs use inorganic chemicals to produce energy
692
What is selective cutting?
Selective cutting is a forestry method where only certain trees are harvested based on criteria like size, species, or health, preserving overall forest structure and biodiversity.
693
What environmental benefit comes from a plant-based diet?
It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, land and water use, and energy consumption compared to a meat-based diet.
694
How do invasive species threaten native species?
By outcompeting them for resources, preying on them, or introducing diseases.
695
How do natural disturbances compare with human-caused disruptions?
They can be equally or even more significant in terms of ecological impact and scale.
696
What is an advantage and disadvantage of spray irrigation?
Advantage: More efficient than flood/furrow. Disadvantage: High cost due to equipment and energy use.
697
What environmental problems can declining biodiversity signal?
Pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, and species extinction—often due to unsustainable human activity.
698
Why does monocropping increase pest problems?
With only one crop species present, pests have an unlimited food supply and can thrive, leading to higher pest populations and greater pesticide use.
699
What role does limestone (CaCO‚ÇÉ) play in neutralizing acid rain?
Limestone reacts with hydrogen ions from acids to form water and carbon dioxide, reducing acidity.
700
What is a toxicant versus a toxin?
Toxicants are human-made chemicals (e.g., pesticides, oil), while toxins are naturally produced by organisms (e.g., snake venom, algal toxins).
701
How does plant diversity change in primary succession?
It increases as soil thickens, allowing grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees to grow.
702
What occurs during secondary treatment?
Bacteria break down organic matter into carbon dioxide and inorganic sludge in an aerated tank.
703
What is urban runoff, and why is it a problem for aquatic ecosystems?
Urban runoff carries oil, heavy metals, pesticides, plastics, and other pollutants into rivers, lakes, and oceans.
704
How can we reduce poaching?
Criminalize it, hire armed guards, increase fines and penalties.
705
What is ED50 and when is it measured?
The effective dose causing nonlethal harm to 50% of organisms, such as infertility or behavioral changes.
706
What is thermal shock?
A sudden drop in oxygen levels due to hot water entering aquatic ecosystems, which can lead to mass fish deaths.
707
What is the relationship between latitude and precipitation?
Humid latitudes (0¬∞, 60¬∞N/S) experience rising air and precipitation; dry latitudes (30°, 90°N/S) experience sinking air and dryness.
708
Why is the thermocline important in ENSO?
Its depth and slope affect the availability of nutrient-rich deep water; it flattens during El Niño and steepens during La Niña.
709
What are density-dependent limiting factors in an ecosystem?
Factors like competition, disease, predation, and parasitism that have greater effects as population density increases.
710
What is a survivorship curve?
A diagram showing the number of surviving members over time from a measured set of births.
711
Why is meat production less efficient than plant production?
It requires more energy, land, and water to grow feed crops, raise animals, and process meat than directly producing plants for consumption.
712
What pollutants are released when subsistence fuels are burned indoors?
Carbon monoxide, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
713
How does reducing meat consumption benefit biodiversity?
It decreases the land needed for agriculture, reducing habitat destruction.
714
How does ocean acidification alter food webs?
It disrupts the base of the food chain by affecting shell-forming plankton.
715
What human activities contribute to coral bleaching?
Pollution (e.g., pesticides, sunscreen) and greenhouse gas emissions.
716
Why is proper disposal of medications important in preventing endocrine disruption in ecosystems?
Improper disposal introduces hormone-altering chemicals into the environment, harming wildlife.
717
What is E85 fuel?
A flex-fuel blend of 51–83% ethanol and the remainder gasoline, used in flex-fuel vehicles.
718
What are five common conditions that increase the likelihood of a thermal inversion?
1) Nighttime cooling (especially in winter), 2) Coastal upwelling, 3) Warm fronts, 4) Valleys/basins, and 5) Urban heat island effect.
719
Define range of tolerance in environmental science.
The range of environmental conditions within which an organism can survive, grow, and reproduce.
720
Why are fossil fuels considered nonrenewable?
Because they form over millions of years from compressed biomass and are consumed far faster than they regenerate.
721
What is drug-resistant tuberculosis and why is it concerning?
TB strains resistant to standard antibiotics; they are harder, longer, and more expensive to treat.
722
What are two main methods of hydrogen gas production?
Steam reforming of methane (CH‚ÇÑ), which emits CO‚ÇÇ, and electrolysis of water (H‚ÇÇO), which is cleaner if powered by renewables.
723
What units are commonly used to express LD50 values?
Mass per mass (e.g., mg/kg) or parts per million (ppm).
724
What is carbon sequestration and why is it important?
It’s the long-term storage of CO₂ in plants, soil, or underground to mitigate climate change.
725
What are examples of commercially valuable species that are at risk?
Snow leopard, tiger, elephant, rhinoceros, rare orchids, exotic birds.
726
What is an example of biological control of an invasive species?
Introducing a natural predator like the cactus moth in Australia.
727
Why does temperature increase in the thermosphere?
Due to the absorption of high-energy solar radiation like UV and X-rays.
728
Why do birth rates decline during the industrial and postindustrial stages?
Increased education, economic opportunity for women, access to family planning, and urban lifestyles reduce fertility rates.
729
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A government enforces strict pollution controls on industries to maintain air quality.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. Government regulation is preventing the overuse and degradation of a shared resource.
730
What can changes in NPP tell us after a disturbance like a fire or hurricane?
Whether the new system is more or less productive than the previous one.
731
How do mangroves help with storm protection?
They buffer coastal areas by reducing wave energy and preventing erosion.
732
What is the current global ecological footprint in Earths?
About 1.85 Earths — indicating humanity is using nearly twice what Earth can regenerate annually.
733
How does affluence influence TFR?
Affluent societies have lower TFR due to greater access to family planning, education, and career opportunities.
734
What is habitat loss due to ocean warming?
Melting ice reduces habitat for species like polar bears, penguins, and seals.
735
How do skylights contribute to passive solar energy in homes?
Skylights bring natural light and some heat into interior spaces, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.
736
What are the founder effect and bottleneck effect?
Founder effect happens when a few individuals colonize a new area; bottleneck effect is a drastic population reduction that decreases genetic diversity.
737
How does mercury pollution from coal plants eventually contaminate aquatic food chains?
It becomes methylmercury in aquatic ecosystems and bioaccumulates up the food chain.
738
What occurs during El Niño conditions?
Trade winds weaken or reverse, warm water moves eastward, upwelling off the South American coast is suppressed, and precipitation shifts toward the eastern Pacific.
739
What are three patterns of population distribution?
Random, uniform, and clumped.
740
How is West Nile Virus transmitted?
Mosquitoes bite infected birds and then humans.
741
What are some consequences of overexploiting groundwater?
Aquifer depletion, land subsidence, saltwater intrusion, and drying of shallow wells.
742
What is a niche?
The role and position an organism has in its environment, including all its interactions
743
What is a significant ecological impact of converting a river ecosystem into a reservoir?
Loss of riverine habitats and alteration of local biodiversity.
744
How can invasive species be prevented from spreading?
Laws, education, and inspections of transported goods and boats.
745
What role do sea stars play as a keystone predator?
They prey on mussels, preventing mussel dominance and allowing species diversity in intertidal zones.
746
How is the atmosphere structured?
In layers based on temperature gradients: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.
747
How does no-till agriculture prevent soil degradation?
No-till farming leaves crop residue on the field, which shields the soil from wind and water erosion, adds organic matter, retains moisture, and preserves beneficial soil organisms. It reduces soil disturbance and erosion over time.
748
Why are corals highly sensitive to ocean warming?
A 1°C increase can cause coral bleaching, where corals eject mutualistic algae, leading to loss of energy and possible death.
749
What is nitrification and how does it change nitrogens chemical form?
It changes ammonia into nitrite and then nitrate, which plants can easily take in.
750
What are communities in ecology?
Communities consist of all the populations of different species that live and interact in a particular area
751
What is biomass as an energy source?
Biomass is any organic matter—like wood, charcoal, dried animal waste, or plant debris—burned to produce heat, often used for cooking or heating.
752
How does methane collection from landfills work?
Pipes collect methane produced by anaerobic decomposition; methane is burned to generate electricity.
753
How do wetlands contribute to carbon sequestration?
Wetland plants store carbon dioxide in their biomass and soils, aiding in climate change mitigation.
754
How can increased algal growth from thermal pollution cause further problems?
It can lead to eutrophication and hypoxic (low oxygen) conditions.
755
What is stabilizing selection?
Stabilizing selection favors the average phenotype, reducing extremes and decreasing genetic diversity.
756
What are some applications of active solar thermal systems?
Applications include solar water heaters, space heating systems, and industrial processes requiring heat.
757
What are cultural ecosystem services provided by wetlands?
Recreation, education, and research opportunities.
758
What is reforestation, and how does it relate to clearcutting?
Reforestation involves planting trees in deforested areas, often used to mitigate the effects of clearcutting.
759
What were the major strategies used in the First Green Revolution?
Introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs), expanded use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, mechanization of agriculture, and widespread irrigation projects.
760
What is evolution in genetic terms?
Evolution is any change in the relative frequency of alleles in a population over time.
761
What are the consequences of intensifying the greenhouse effect?
Global warming, climate change, and more extreme weather.
762
Tourists pay to enter a national park to enjoy scenic landscapes. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Cultural service (aesthetic/recreation value).
763
What happens when carbonic acid dissociates in water?
It releases hydrogen ions (H⁺), increasing the oceans acidity.
764
What is Crude Birth Rate?
The number of births per 1,000 individuals per year, not accounting for population age structure.
765
What types of substances tend to bioaccumulate?
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals that are fat-soluble.
766
Give examples of species with a narrow distribution that are endangered.
Elephant seal, desert pupfish, giant panda.
767
How is CO‚ÇÇ exchanged between the atmosphere and ocean?
Through direct gas exchange at the oceans surface.
768
What is urban sprawl?
The movement of people from densely populated urban centers to less dense suburban areas.
769
What are the three main types of coal, and how do they differ?
Lignite (least energy dense), bituminous (commonly used), and anthracite (most energy dense and cleaner burning).
770
What are examples of physical/mechanical pest control methods?
Fences, sticky traps, tillage, row covers, or netting to physically block pests.
771
How does urbanization affect the water cycle?
It disrupts infiltration and increases surface runoff, affecting the natural hydrologic balance.
772
How does a biome differ from a habitat in terms of size and scope?
A biome is broader and includes many habitats
773
What are some benefits of IPM overall?
Reduces pesticide use, protects biodiversity, preserves ecosystem health, and improves food safety.
774
What is the energy efficiency of a hydrogen fuel cell compared to combustion engines?
Hydrogen fuel cells are generally more energy-efficient than traditional combustion engines.
775
During what season is the ozone hole most severe?
Antarctic spring (August to November).
776
How do shallow lakes undergo succession?
Over thousands of years, they fill with sediment and organic matter, transitioning into terrestrial habitats.
777
Why is the distribution of natural energy resources like coal, oil, and gas uneven across the globe?
The distribution is influenced by a regions geologic history, including past climates, biological activity, and geological processes that led to the formation of these resources.
778
What percentage of U.S. dams are used for hydroelectricity?
Only about 3%; most are used for recreation and flood control.
779
What impact has fracking had on natural gas availability?
Fracking has significantly increased natural gas production, especially in the United States, leading to greater availability and lower prices.
780
How does the burning of fossil fuels affect the carbon cycle?
It releases stored carbon, increasing atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ and contributing to climate change.
781
What is an ecological footprint?
A measure of the land and water area required to support the resource consumption and waste generation of an individual or group, expressed in global hectares (gha).
782
What is a limiting factor in bays and estuaries?
Salinity.
783
What is the Ogallala Aquifer?
The largest aquifer in North America, heavily used for agriculture and experiencing significant depletion.
784
What are threats to sustainable food production?
Soil degradation, groundwater depletion, climate change, and increased meat consumption.
785
What are the main benefits of CAFOs?
They maximize land use efficiency, lower meat costs for consumers, and allow rapid meat production.
786
How does slash-and-burn affect albedo and temperature?
It reduces albedo, increasing heat absorption and raising local temperatures, which can dry out the soil and inhibit plant regrowth.
787
Which countries have the largest proven coal reserves?
The United States, Russia, Australia, China, and India hold the largest proven coal reserves.
788
How does rotational grazing enhance plant regrowth and root health?
It keeps grass in its fastest growth phase, which promotes energy storage in roots and leads to longer, healthier root systems. This improves soil anchoring and resilience to drought and erosion.
789
What is a major source of carbon monoxide exposure in homes?
Indoor combustion of biomass fuels like wood or charcoal.
790
What causes unequal heating of Earth’s surface?
The tilt of Earths axis and the spherical shape lead to more direct sunlight at the equator than at the poles.
791
Why is reduce considered the most sustainable of the 3 Rs?
Reducing minimizes resource use and energy input needed to create, ship, and market new goods.
792
What shape does a typical dose-response curve follow?
An S-shaped (sigmoidal) curve.
793
How can a thermal inversion end?
A thermal inversion can end when the sun heats the Earth's surface during the day, warming the cooler air trapped below and allowing it to rise and mix with the air above. Strong winds can also break up the stable air layers by forcing vertical mixing. These changes restore the normal temperature gradient and help disperse the trapped pollutants.
794
What pandemics have been caused by coronaviruses?
SARS (2002–2003), MERS (2012–ongoing), COVID-19 (2019–ongoing).
795
What role do oceans play in regulating Earths climate?
They absorb heat and CO‚ÇÇ, buffering climate change.
796
What additional chemicals contribute slightly to acidification besides CO‚ÇÇ?
Nitric acid (from NO‚Çì emissions) and sulfuric acid (from SO‚Çì emissions).
797
Which indoor air pollutants are considered carcinogens?
Radon, formaldehyde, tobacco smoke, and asbestos.
798
How does stratospheric ozone form?
UV-C radiation splits O2 into two free oxygen atoms; each atom bonds with O2 to form ozone (O3).
799
How does atrazine, a common herbicide, act as an endocrine disruptor in amphibians?
It mimics estrogen, leading to feminization of male frogs and reproductive issues.
800
What distinguishes complete from incomplete combustion?
Complete combustion: sufficient O‚ÇÇ, produces CO‚ÇÇ & H‚ÇÇO, clean blue flame, high energy. Incomplete: insufficient O‚ÇÇ, produces CO & soot, yellow flame, less energy.
801
What is saltwater intrusion?
Movement of saltwater into freshwater aquifers due to excessive groundwater withdrawal near coastlines.
802
Which types of bacteria carry out biological nitrogen fixation in soil and plant roots?
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria in soil or plant roots help convert N‚ÇÇ into ammonia, making nitrogen usable for plants.
803
What is the Rate of Natural Increase (RNI)?
Birth rate minus death rate, indicating population growth rate excluding migration.
804
What human activities are driving the sixth mass extinction?
Habitat destruction, overharvesting, invasive species, climate change, and emerging diseases.
805
What human activities increase surface runoff?
Urban development, paving surfaces, and removing vegetation.
806
What implications does age structure have on society?
It affects birth/death rates, economic planning, school needs, elderly care, housing, and employment.
807
What is one way that glaciers contribute to freshwater supplies?
They provide meltwater during warmer months.
808
What is mold and how does it become an indoor air pollutant?
A fungus that thrives in moisture and releases spores that can cause allergies and respiratory issues.
809
What human activities cause habitat fragmentation?
Building roads, pipelines, agriculture clearing, logging, and urban development.
810
What is an example of crop genetic loss and its consequences?
The Irish Potato Famine — reliance on a single variety led to mass starvation after a fungus outbreak.
811
What can landfill leachate contain that threatens water supplies?
Heavy metals, acids, bacteria, and medications.
812
What factors influence the sustainability of biofuels?
The agricultural methods used; sustainable practices reduce negative environmental impacts.
813
What is a nuclear meltdown?
A severe overheating of the reactor core, often caused by cooling system failure, potentially resulting in the release of radiation.
814
How does a thermal inversion alter the normal temperature gradient?
It reverses the gradient, with warm air above cooler air, stopping convection and trapping pollution near the surface.
815
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor air pollution?
Indoor pollution occurs inside buildings and homes, while outdoor pollution occurs in the open environment.
816
What specific reproductive effects has atrazine been shown to cause in male frogs?
Development of ovaries, production of eggs, and reduced sperm counts.
817
What is the primary producer in slow-moving rivers?
Aquatic plants and algae
818
How can ocean acidification impact human economies?
It threatens industries like fisheries and aquaculture, especially shellfish farming.
819
What is family planning and how does it affect demographic transition?
Strategies for controlling reproduction (like contraception and reproductive education), which help lower birth rates in later stages.
820
During which stage of sewage treatment are large solids like plastics and toilet paper removed?
Primary treatment, using physical screens and settling tanks.
821
What is free-range grazing?
A method where animals graze on grass in open areas without the need for grain, antibiotics, or growth hormones.
822
How does climate change potentially affect hydroelectric power generation?
Altered precipitation patterns can affect water flow and power output.
823
What environmental issue is caused by phosphorus runoff?
Algal blooms, which can lead to hypoxic dead zones in aquatic systems.
824
What human actions significantly impact the nitrogen cycle?
Using fertilizers and burning fossil fuels adds extra nitrogen to ecosystems.
825
What is waterlogging in soil?
A condition where excess water fills soil pores, blocking air and reducing oxygen availability for roots.
826
What is fracking, and how does it work?
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, involves injecting high-pressure fluid into subterranean rock formations to create fractures, allowing oil and gas to flow more freely to the production well.
827
Why is understanding disease ecology important for public health?
It helps predict outbreaks, target vectors, improve sanitation, and design vaccines.
828
Why is nuclear energy considered nonrenewable?
Because it relies on finite radioactive elements like uranium and plutonium that cannot be replenished.
829
What happens during the equinoxes?
Day and night are equal in length; Sun is overhead at the equator.
830
How does high infant mortality affect TFR?
It increases TFR due to parents having replacement children.
831
What is coal ash, and why is it a concern for environmental pollution?
A waste product of coal combustion containing heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and lead.
832
What is directional selection?
Directional selection favors individuals at one extreme of a trait, shifting the populations phenotypic average.
833
What are some consequences of the positive feedback loop in urban sprawl?
Decline in city services, business relocation, increased blight, and further population loss in urban areas.
834
How do ecological and carbon footprints differ?
Ecological footprint is expressed in land area (gha) and includes all resource use and waste, while carbon footprint focuses solely on greenhouse gas emissions, measured in tons of CO‚ÇÇ.
835
Why are invasive species often linked with human activities?
Humans transport species globally via trade, travel, and agriculture.
836
What is sustainable development?
Development that meets current needs while preserving resources and ecosystems for future generations.
837
What is a climax community?
The historically described final stage of succession, though now seen as temporary due to frequent disturbances.
838
Why isn’t geothermal energy available everywhere?
It requires hot rock layers close to the surface, found in limited geographic regions.
839
How can plants like conifers impact air quality?
By releasing VOCs that may contribute to the formation of natural smog in places like the Smoky Mountains.
840
Why is monocropping considered efficient in the short term?
It allows for uniform planting, harvesting, and treatment, reducing costs and maximizing profits.
841
What documented ecosystem effects are associated with endocrine disruptor exposure in animals?
Birth defects, developmental disorders, and gender imbalances.
842
What factors influence risk management decisions?
Scientific data, economic considerations, social values, ethical concerns, and political pressures.
843
How is the Clean Air Act (CAA) connected to mining?
Regulates air pollutants from mining operations and burning of mined materials. Enforces controls on dust, sulfur dioxide, and methane emissions.
844
How do nuclear power plants specifically contribute to thermal pollution?
They discharge large volumes of warm water used to cool reactor cores.
845
What kinds of plants grow in the savanna?
Grasses and scattered trees
846
How does affluence impact demographic transition?
Affluence often leads to lower birth rates due to career prioritization, delayed childbirth, and access to healthcare.
847
How does overgrazing affect soil?
It reduces vegetation cover and root structures, compacting soil and lowering its water-holding capacity, increasing erosion.
848
What is methylmercury, and why is it dangerous?
A toxic form of mercury created by bacteria that bioaccumulates in fish (e.g., tuna) and harms humans and wildlife.
849
What is life expectancy and what improves it?
Average age a person is expected to live; improves with clean water, healthcare, and stable food sources.
850
Why is acidic soil a problem for crops?
Acidic soil contains excess H⁺ ions that displace essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium, causing them to leach away. It also increases aluminum solubility, which can poison plant roots and impair growth.
851
What is energy conservation in the context of environmental science?
Energy conservation involves reducing energy use through efficiency improvements and behavioral changes to minimize environmental impacts and preserve resources.
852
What is the definition of a biome, and what does it include in terms of climate and living organisms?
A climate-based region with specific plants and animals
853
What is a concern regarding antibiotic use in aquaculture?
Antibiotics can leach into surrounding water, contributing to microbial resistance, endocrine disruption in aquatic species, and contamination of food products.
854
What impact did Norman Borlaug’s work have on global agriculture?
His innovations helped avert famine in developing countries, saving over a billion lives and transforming agricultural practices worldwide.
855
What are some environmental impacts of the Green Revolution?
Soil degradation, water pollution from runoff, loss of biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
856
What happens when conditions move beyond a species’ range of tolerance?
Individuals may die or fail to survive and reproduce.
857
What is a modern use of arsenic that continues to pose environmental risks?
Wood treatment chemicals used to prevent rot.
858
What is a secondary pollutant?
A pollutant that forms in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants.
859
What are anthropogenic sources of CO‚ÇÇ emissions?
Fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes.
860
How does rising sea level affect coastal populations?
Increases displacement risk, threatens infrastructure, and may destroy barrier islands.
861
Where in the world can you typically find the Taiga biome, and what is its climate like?
Northern latitudes, cold and dry
862
What are the main natural sources of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?
Respiration, decomposition, and volcanic eruptions.
863
Why do bleached corals appear white?
Loss of algae reveals the coral’s white skeleton.
864
What natural phenomena contribute to ozone depletion?
Polar stratospheric clouds over Antarctica release chlorine from chlorine nitrate and hydrochloric acid during the spring.
865
What local activities can cause global impacts in oceans?
Emissions from fossil fuels and land-based pollution.
866
What is LD50 and why is it important?
LD50 is the lethal dose that kills 50% of a population, used to compare chemical toxicities.
867
What initiates primary succession?
It begins in areas with bare rock, such as after a glacial retreat, volcanic eruption, or abandoned parking lot.
868
Why are soil organisms important?
They help decompose organic matter, cycle nutrients, and improve soil structure.
869
How can human activities disrupt ecosystem services?
Through deforestation, pollution, and urbanization, which can harm both ecosystems and the economy.
870
How do lakes and ponds differ?
Lakes are larger and often too deep for emergent vegetation
871
Why is prevention more effective than eradication of invasives?
Once established, invasives are extremely hard to remove.
872
What type of pollution source is urban stormwater runoff entering a river?
Nonpoint Source
873
What is the role of zooxanthellae in coral health?
They provide corals with energy through photosynthesis.
874
Why is ecological footprint analysis useful for environmental science?
It quantifies resource use and waste production, helping assess sustainability and environmental impact.
875
How does climate change negatively affect marine ecosystems?
Raising the photic zone, limiting sunlight for deep-sea producers.
876
How does radon enter homes?
Through cracks in foundations or dissolved in groundwater from rocks like granite.
877
What is the role of heavy metals in water pollution?
Heavy metals like mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium are toxic, bioaccumulate, and biomagnify up aquatic food chains.
878
What type of pollution source is erosion runoff carrying soil into rivers from multiple fields?
Nonpoint Source
879
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Individuals litter in a public park, leading to pollution and decreased enjoyment for others.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The park is a shared resource, and individual negligence leads to its degradation.
880
What is the Keeling Curve?
A graph showing the rise of CO‚ÇÇ concentrations measured at Mauna Loa Observatory since 1958.
881
Why must nonrenewable resources be used sparingly?
They cannot regenerate on a human timescale, and overuse depletes them permanently.
882
What is the significance of the Northern Spotted Owl in forestry debates?
Its status as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act led to logging restrictions in old-growth forests, highlighting the conflict between conservation and industry.
883
What is latent heat release?
The release of heat when water vapor condenses into liquid, driving further convection.
884
What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?
Fossil distribution, matching rock formations, and the fit of continental coastlines.
885
How can humans be exposed to POPs?
Through consumption of contaminated food (especially animal fats), drinking contaminated water, and occupational exposure.
886
How does ocean warming cause algal blooms?
Warmer water promotes the growth of toxic algae.
887
How can nitrous oxide emissions from composting be minimized?
By maintaining proper aeration, balancing carbon and nitrogen ratios, and avoiding excess moisture during composting.
888
What two common consumer product indicators might suggest the presence of phthalates?
Plastics labeled with recycling code #3 and cosmetics listing fragrance.
889
Give an example of an inverse relationship from thermal pollution.
As water temperature rises, dissolved oxygen levels fall.
890
What disinfection methods are used before treated water is discharged?
Chlorine, ozone, or ultraviolet (UV) light.
891
Why is geothermal energy considered renewable?
As long as groundwater is reinjected, the Earth’s internal heat is inexhaustible.
892
Why is it better to upgrade existing cooling towers rather than build new ones?
Many power plants already have towers; upgrading improves efficiency without major new construction.
893
How does fossil fuel infrastructure lead to habitat fragmentation?
Roads, pipelines, and drilling sites break up ecosystems, isolate populations, and reduce biodiversity.
894
Why are tundra and Arctic ecosystems particularly vulnerable?
They are experiencing the fastest warming, threatening species like polar bears and reindeer.
895
What happens during an algal bloom?
Algae rapidly grow, block sunlight, and eventually die off, leading to oxygen depletion.
896
Why are CFCs especially harmful?
They destroy stratospheric ozone and have extremely high GWP.
897
How does solar radiation interact with Earths surface?
It is absorbed and then re-radiated as infrared radiation.
898
What is the EROI of geothermal energy and what does it mean?
About 9; for every unit of energy invested, 9 units are returned — moderately efficient.
899
Why is soil conservation critical in sustainable agriculture?
Soil forms slowly through weathering but erodes quickly through poor farming practices. Conserving it preserves topsoil nutrients, retains moisture, supports decomposers and organic matter, and prevents long-term fertility loss.
900
What are the environmental impacts of El Niño?
Droughts in Australia and Southeast Asia, flooding in South America, warmer winters in northern U.S., and disrupted marine food webs due to reduced upwelling.
901
How do oil spills harm marine life?
Oil coats animals, blocks sunlight, reduces photosynthesis, clogs fish gills, and poisons ecosystems through hydrocarbon exposure.
902
What ecological impacts occur upstream of a dam?
Warmer water temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, and sediment covering fish spawning grounds.
903
Are rooftop photovoltaic panels considered a passive or active solar technology?
Active; they convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials.
904
What is genetic drift?
Genetic drift is random changes in allele frequencies due to chance events, especially impactful in small populations.
905
What is thermal expansion in the context of sea level rise?
The expansion of ocean water as it warms, contributing to higher sea levels and saltwater intrusion.
906
What ecological role do mangroves underwater roots play?
They provide substrates for marine organisms and shelter for juvenile fish.
907
What is the chemical reaction of limestone neutralizing acid rain?
CaCO₃ + 2H⁺ → Ca²⁺ + CO₂ + H₂O.
908
What gas is mainly responsible for both atmospheric and oceanic warming?
Carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ).
909
What is a feedback loop in ecology?
It’s a process where changes either reinforce (positive) or counteract (negative) the original event.
910
How do catalytic converters reduce air pollution?
They convert toxic gases into nitrogen gas, carbon dioxide, and water vapor.
911
How does public transportation help mitigate urban runoff?
Public transit reduces the number of vehicles on the road, which in turn decreases emissions and the amount of pollutants like oil, gasoline, and rubber particles that accumulate on road surfaces. It also reduces the need for expansive roads and parking lots, lowering the amount of impervious surface contributing to runoff.
912
How does having a low reproductive rate (being a K-strategist) increase extinction risk?
Species like the blue whale, giant panda, and rhinoceros reproduce slowly, making population recovery difficult.
913
How is LD50 determined from a dose-response curve?
By drawing a line from 50% mortality to the curve and down to the x-axis to find the corresponding dose.
914
How do ocean currents influence coastal climates?
Warm currents raise coastal temperatures; cold currents lower them.
915
What is the equation for NPP?
NPP = GPP - R
916
How does building orientation affect passive solar heating?
Proper orientation, typically with south-facing windows in the Northern Hemisphere, maximizes solar heat gain in winter and minimizes it in summer.
917
What is insolation?
Incoming solar radiations the main energy source for Earth, varying by season and latitude.
918
How is fossil fuel combustion part of the carbon cycle?
Combustion releases stored carbon in hydrocarbons as CO‚ÇÇ, returning it to the atmosphere and contributing to the greenhouse effect.
919
What is the global significance of adopting hydrogen fuel cells?
They can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale.
920
What types of pollutants might still be present even after sewage treatment?
Nutrient pollutants (nitrates, phosphates) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
921
What traits allow invasive species to reproduce rapidly?
High biotic potential and lack of predator control.
922
Why are lower-grade ores becoming more commonly mined?
As accessible ores are depleted, companies mine lower-grade ores, which increases energy use, waste, and environmental degradation.
923
What is leaching in soil and why is it problematic in the nitrogen cycle?
Nitrogen compounds are washed away by water, polluting rivers and lakes.
924
What is the greenhouse effect?
The natural process where gases in Earths atmosphere absorb infrared radiation and reradiate it, warming the planet.
925
What are autotrophs?
Autotrophs are organisms that produce their own energy through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis
926
Why is carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ) not considered an air pollutant in APES FRQs?
Because it does not directly damage lungs, eyes, or decrease visibility, even though it contributes to climate change.
927
How have aquatic photosynthesizers adapted to low light availability?
They have developed mechanisms to deal with limited visible light.
928
What is fishing down the food web and why is it harmful?
It’s the practice of targeting smaller, lower-trophic fish like sardines after larger predators are depleted, worsening ecological imbalance and affecting marine mammals and seabirds.
929
Why might a species fail to shift its range during climate change?
It may face physical barriers, slow mobility, or competition in new habitats.
930
Define biomagnification.
The increase in concentration of substances per unit of body tissue at successively higher trophic levels of a food chain or food web.
931
Why is phosphorus essential to life?
Its crucial for producing DNA, RNA, ATP, and cellular membranes, and it supports plant growth.
932
What zones are found in the open ocean?
Photic, aphotic, and benthic
933
What happens in a predator-prey relationship?
The predator kills and eats the prey.
934
How can urban development be made more sustainable?
By using urban growth boundaries, green roofs, parks, and smart development.
935
How do autotrophs and heterotrophs obtain the nitrogen they need?
Plants absorb nitrogen from soil; animals get it by eating plants or other animals.
936
What type of fish are adapted to low-oxygen rivers?
Catfish
937
Besides amphibians, how might atrazine exposure affect human populations?
Contamination of drinking water and potential hormone disruption through produce or groundwater.
938
What are common limiting factors in soil?
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK).
939
Can pathogens spread in areas with good sanitation? Give examples.
Yes, West Nile Virus in the U.S., COVID-19 globally, Lyme disease in suburban areas.
940
How does a shallow angle of incidence affect temperature?
It spreads energy over a wider area, lowering temperature.
941
What is a major drawback of flood irrigation?
It can cause waterlogging, which saturates the soil and deprives roots of oxygen, harming or killing plants.
942
What contributes to a decline in IMR?
Clean water, healthcare, reliable food, vaccines, and maternal supplements.
943
List three ecosystem services provided by freshwater wetlands.
Flood prevention, water filtration, and wildlife habitat
944
Why is the Coriolis effect stronger near the poles?
The Coriolis effect is stronger near the poles because the change in Earth’s rotational speed over a given distance is greater at higher latitudes. Near the equator, the surface rotates faster, but there’s less deflection per unit of movement. Near the poles, even small movements across latitudes result in significant deflection due to the tighter curve of Earth’s rotation.
945
What is the primary environmental concern about coral bleaching?
Coral bleaching weakens reefs and reduces marine biodiversity.
946
Why is methylmercury especially dangerous to developing human fetuses?
It damages the developing brain and nervous system.
947
How much has average global temperature risen since 1880?
Approximately 1.1°C (2.0°F).
948
What is a ground source heat pump?
A home system using Earth’s stable surface temp (50–60°F) for heating and cooling.
949
What is the environmental trade-off of electric vehicles (EVs)?
While EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, their sustainability depends on how the electricity powering them is generated.
950
What specific pollutants are often found in stormwater runoff from urban areas?
Motor oil, nitrate fertilizers, road salts, and sediment.
951
What is desertification?
The process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically due to drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.
952
How does stormwater runoff from cities contribute to thermal pollution differently from industrial discharge?
Urban runoff is from heated surfaces rather than direct industrial use.
953
What U.S. law was enacted to protect endangered species?
The Endangered Species Act (ESA).
954
How can population changes in a single species lead to a trophic cascade?
A change in one species’ population (e.g., decline of a predator) can cause an increase in its prey, which may overconsume producers (like plants), disrupting the balance of the entire ecosystem and altering population sizes, biodiversity, and even physical characteristics of the environment.
955
What is a key distinction between biomass and biofuels?
Biomass is burned in solid form to release heat directly, while biofuels are processed into liquids like ethanol or biodiesel for use in engines.
956
Name two heavy metals that are often released into water by mining activities.
Heavy metals released include iron, copper, lead, mercury, arsenic, manganese, and zinc.
957
What are two potential drawbacks of composting?
It can produce odors and attract rodents and pests.
958
What are the three levels of biodiversity in an ecosystem?
Genetic diversity, species diversity, and habitat (ecosystem) diversity.
959
How does lightning help make atmospheric nitrogen usable by plants?
It creates nitrogen compounds that fall with rain and enter the soil for plants to use.
960
What is evaporation?
The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor due to heat from the sun.
961
What was the policy impact of the Three Mile Island incident?
It led to widespread public fear and halted construction of new nuclear power plants in the U.S.
962
Why does DDT still pose a threat to ecosystems decades after it was banned?
It persists for a long time in sediments, soils, and aquatic ecosystems.
963
What is CERCLA, also known as the Superfund Act?
Authorizes cleanup of hazardous waste sites including mines. Holds polluters liable and funds remediation of contaminated areas through federal response.
964
Name the three types of freshwater wetlands.
Swamps (trees), marshes (non-woody plants), and bogs (acidic)
965
What is sustainability in the context of environmental science?
Sustainability means using Earths resources in a way that doesnt compromise the ability of future generations to use them.
966
What is mountaintop removal?
Uses explosives to remove the summit of a mountain to access coal seams below; very destructive to ecosystems.
967
What are the primary types of active solar systems?
The main types are photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight into electricity, and solar thermal systems, which use sunlight to heat fluids for space or water heating.
968
How do developed and developing countries differ in resource use?
Developed nations have a smaller population but use a disproportionate share of global resources.
969
Why are generalist species more resilient to natural disruptions?
Because they can thrive in a wide range of environmental conditions and resource types.
970
What is specific heat, and why does it matter for climate?
Specific heat is the amount of energy required to change a substances temperature; water’s high specific heat moderates nearby climates.
971
How can POPs travel long distances from their source?
Through atmospheric transport, water currents, and migratory species, leading to global distribution.
972
Describe the role of particulate matter in respiratory health and list two indoor sources.
PM can enter lungs and cause inflammation. Sources include tobacco smoke and cooking stoves.
973
What geological events occur at divergent boundaries?
Seafloor spreading, rift valleys, earthquakes, and volcanoes.
974
Which gas has the highest GWP?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
975
How does incineration generate electricity?
By heating water into steam to turn a turbine and run a generator.
976
Where is solar radiation most intense?
At the equator, where sunlight hits at a 90 degree angle.
977
Propose a solution to reduce the risk of radon exposure in homes built in high-radon zones.
Seal cracks in foundations and install sub-slab depressurization systems to prevent radon entry and promote ventilation.
978
Which group of animals has the highest percentage of endangered species?
Amphibians.
979
What is the environmental risk of ash ponds?
Potential leakage of toxic metals into nearby ecosystems.
980
What is resource depletion, and what causes it?
The overuse of natural resources—like fossil fuels, forests, and fresh water—often driven by population growth and consumption.
981
What is effluent in sewage treatment?
Treated wastewater that is discharged from a wastewater treatment plant.
982
What happens during primary treatment of sewage?
Large solids are physically removed using screens, grates, and settling tanks.
983
What are the environmental downsides of ethanol production?
Soil erosion, GHG emissions, fertilizer runoff, and habitat destruction.
984
What do omnivores eat?
Omnivores eat both plants and animals
985
Which is more efficient for SO‚ÇÇ removal: wet or dry scrubbers?
Wet scrubbers are more efficient, removing 90–99% of SO₂; dry scrubbers remove about 85–95%.
986
What are the sources of particulate matter (PM)?
Fossil fuel combustion, biomass burning, road dust, construction activities, and natural events like volcanic eruptions and fires.
987
What are the three main factors that influence which energy sources are used?
Availability, price, and government regulation.
988
What human activity could unintentionally increase urban thermal pollution?
Expanding urban areas with more concrete and asphalt surfaces.
989
Define Gross Primary Productivity (GPP).
The total rate of photosynthesis in a given area.
990
What are the three fossil fuels ranked by cleanliness of combustion?
Natural gas (cleanest), petroleum, coal (dirtiest and most polluting).
991
How does the urban heat island effect contribute to thermal inversions?
Urban areas absorb and retain more heat due to surfaces like asphalt. At night, they release this heat slowly, creating a warm air layer above cooler surface air, promoting inversions.
992
Plants perform photosynthesis, producing oxygen. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Supporting service (photosynthesis).
993
Why is gasoline preferred over coal or firewood for cars?
High energy-to-mass ratio, easy to start and stop, though it pollutes more and is expensive to refine.
994
What is an ideal sex ratio for population growth?
A balanced 50:50 ratio of males to females.
995
Is a solar water heating system with circulating pumps passive or active?
Active; it uses mechanical pumps to circulate heated fluid.
996
What are the types of resource partitioning?
Temporal (time-based), spatial (location-based), and morphological (physical trait-based)
997
How can lead enter the human body?
Through inhalation of dust or ingestion of peeling paint.
998
In which regions do temperate seasonal forests grow, and what kind of seasonal changes do they experience?
Mid-latitudes, warm summers and cold winters
999
Explain why VOCs are considered indoor pollutants even though they may not be combustion products.
VOCs vaporize from household materials and products, becoming airborne and irritating respiratory systems without needing to be burned.
1000
Why is reinjection of water critical in geothermal systems?
Maintains reservoir pressure and ensures sustainability.
1001
How can food webs be useful in ecology?
They can predict what will happen in a population based on changes in one or more species.
1002
What is the estimated total number of species on Earth?
Between 5 to 100 million, with the most common estimate being 10 million.
1003
How can industries reuse water to minimize thermal pollution?
By recycling heated water in closed-loop systems instead of discharging it immediately.
1004
What are the basic components of a hydrogen fuel cell?
The main components include an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane.
1005
List at least five examples of POPs.
DDT, PCBs, dioxins, PBDEs, hexachlorobenzene.
1006
Is natural gas a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Nonrenewable – it is a fossil fuel that takes millions of years to form and is not replaced quickly.
1007
Why is it dangerous to remove asbestos without professional help?
Disturbing it releases fibers that can be inhaled and cause severe health issues.
1008
Why are estuaries especially vulnerable to oil pollution?
Dense root systems of mangroves and salt marsh plants trap oil, causing habitat loss and shoreline erosion.
1009
What positive feedback loops worsen climate change?
Melting permafrost releasing methane, and decreasing ice cover lowering albedo.
1010
How does a ground source heat pump work in the summer?
In summer, heat from the house is absorbed by a fluid circulating through underground pipes. The fluid releases the heat into the cooler ground, which keeps the home cooler. The system cycles the cooled fluid back into the house to absorb more heat.
1011
What lesson can we learn from the introduction of kudzu?
Well-intentioned introductions can backfire.
1012
What type of pollution source is motor oil washed from hundreds of cars into storm drains?
Nonpoint Source
1013
What practices can improve phosphorus sustainability?
No-till farming, recycling waste, reducing erosion, and phasing out toxic metals.
1014
How do landfills contribute to climate change in urban areas?
They release methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and CO2 from decomposing organic waste.
1015
What is crop rotation and how does it maintain nutrient balance?
Crop rotation alternates crops with different nutrient needs. For example, corn depletes nitrogen, but legumes like beans fix nitrogen back into the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and sustaining fertility.
1016
How has global wind capacity changed from 1996 to now?
It increased from under 10 GW in 1996 to over 300 GW today.
1017
What is intrinsic value in the context of ecosystems?
The value ecosystems have independent of human needs or desires, often linked to moral obligations, religion, or philosophy.
1018
What is the Profundal Zone?
Deep water zone with no sunlight and low oxygen
1019
How does clearcutting affect soil stability?
Removing trees eliminates root systems that stabilize soil, leading to increased erosion and nutrient loss.
1020
In the same experiment, what would be a control group?
Dishes placed away from construction, near a regular road with no added disturbance.
1021
What is a population pyramid?
An age structure diagram that is widest at the bottom and smallest at the top, typical of developing countries.
1022
How does the death of algae affect dissolved oxygen levels?
Decomposers use oxygen to break down dead algae, decreasing dissolved oxygen and leading to hypoxia.
1023
Why are double-paned windows useful in passive solar design?
Double-paned windows reduce heat loss and help trap solar heat indoors, improving energy efficiency.
1024
How is nitrous oxide produced during composting?
Nitrous oxide can be produced when composting occurs in low-oxygen (anaerobic) conditions, especially with nitrogen-rich materials.
1025
What is climate?
The long-term average of atmospheric conditions, such as temperature and precipitation, in a specific area.
1026
What geological features are ideal for geothermal energy production?
Areas near tectonic plate boundaries with volcanic activity, such as the Ring of Fire, are ideal for geothermal energy due to the presence of accessible heat sources.
1027
How do oil spills affect aquatic organisms biologically?
Oil coats aquatic animals, impairing movement, breathing, and reproduction, often leading to death.
1028
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Multiple factories release pollutants into a river that flows through several communities, affecting water quality downstream.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The river is a shared resource, and pollution by individual factories harms the broader community.
1029
Which regions have the highest solar energy potential?
Regions with high solar irradiance, such as deserts in the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, have the highest solar energy potential.
1030
Why does ocean water become more acidic?
Increased CO‚ÇÇ forms carbonic acid (H‚ÇÇCO‚ÇÉ) in the ocean, lowering its pH.
1031
How does ocean acidification affect coral reefs?
It makes it difficult for corals to form and maintain their calcium carbonate skeletons, leading to weakened reefs.
1032
How do human activities primarily introduce CFCs into the atmosphere?
Leakage from refrigerants, aerosol sprays, and improper disposal of old appliances.
1033
What are the two types of wells used in geothermal plants?
Injection wells (pump cold water down) and production wells (bring steam up).
1034
How can mold be prevented indoors?
Fix leaks, reduce humidity, ventilate spaces, and clean regularly.
1035
What is the largest reservoir of water on Earth?
The oceans.
1036
How does genetic diversity affect ecological tolerance?
It causes variation in tolerance within a species, allowing some individuals to survive under slightly different conditions.
1037
What is a hydrogen fuel cell?
A hydrogen fuel cell is a device that generates electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water and heat as byproducts.
1038
How do greenhouse gas emissions contribute to biodiversity loss?
They drive climate change, shifting habitats and stressing ecosystems.
1039
What’s the difference between a carbon source and sink?
A source emits more carbon than it absorbs; a sink absorbs more than it emits.
1040
Describe the general steps of fossil fuel electricity generation.
Fossil fuels are burned to produce heat, turning water into steam, which spins a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity.
1041
How does tidal energy generate electricity?
Ocean tides turn submerged turbines, generating electricity in coastal areas.
1042
Why are tires problematic when dumped improperly?
They collect standing water and create mosquito breeding grounds.
1043
What is permafrost, and why is its thawing concerning?
Permanently frozen ground; thawing releases methane and CO‚ÇÇ, intensifying warming.
1044
What are the key characteristics of the savanna biome?
Warm with wet and dry seasons
1045
How does sustainable forestry reduce habitat fragmentation?
Sustainable forestry helps reduce habitat fragmentation, which is when large, continuous areas of habitat are broken into smaller, isolated sections. Techniques like selective cutting leave parts of the forest intact, while wildlife corridors allow animals to move freely between areas. These strategies help maintain healthy populations and support genetic diversity.
1046
What human activities disrupt the phosphorus cycle?
Mining phosphate for fertilizer and detergents, and waste runoff into waterways.
1047
What other diseases are transmitted via mosquito bites?
Malaria, Zika virus, dengue fever, yellow fever.
1048
Is the 10% efficiency rule exact for every trophic level?
No, it is an average approximation and not always exact.
1049
How can protected areas help conserve biodiversity?
They provide safe habitats free from human exploitation and preserve ecosystems.
1050
What role does thermal mass play in passive solar design?
Thermal mass materials (like concrete or stone) absorb and store solar heat during the day and release it slowly when temperatures drop, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.
1051
Why is water vapor not a major concern for human-caused climate change?
It has a short residence time and depends on temperature, not human emissions.
1052
Can biomass be used to generate electricity?
Yes, but it is less common due to lower energy density and the effort needed to gather and process the material compared to fossil fuels.
1053
What was DDT primarily used for before its ban in the United States, and what effects did it have on wildlife?
As an insecticide; caused eggshell thinning in birds due to disrupted calcium metabolism.
1054
What is the main difference between renewable and nonrenewable energy sources?
Renewable sources can be naturally replenished at or near the rate of consumption, while nonrenewable sources exist in fixed amounts and cannot be regenerated on a human timescale.
1055
What type of pollution source is road salt runoff from many city streets after a snowstorm?
Nonpoint Source
1056
What are some solutions to help fish migrate past hydroelectric dams, and where have they been implemented?
Fish ladders and salmon cannons help migratory fish bypass dams. On the Columbia River, fish ladders have helped salmon regain access to spawning habitats after mid-20th century dam construction.
1057
What is nuclear energys rank and mechanism in global energy generation?
It is the third most common source; it uses uranium fission to generate heat and produce steam that spins turbines.
1058
Why do developing countries shift from subsistence fuels to fossil fuels as they develop?
Increased wealth and urbanization demand more reliable and higher-output energy sources.
1059
How does water diversion impact wetland ecosystems?
Reduces water supply to wetlands, leading to habitat degradation.
1060
What is tar sand petroleum and why is it controversial?
A heavy, impure petroleum (bitumen) requiring large amounts of water and energy to extract, causing habitat destruction and water contamination.
1061
What do nitrifying bacteria do during the nitrogen cycle?
They help turn ammonia into nitrates that plants can use for growth.
1062
What is the rain shadow effect?
Mountains block precipitation on the leeward side, creating a dry region; the windward side receives more precipitation.
1063
What is the difference between short-term and long-term natural disruptions?
Short-term disruptions like droughts are temporary, while long-term ones like climate change can lead to permanent ecosystem changes.
1064
What is a water table?
The upper boundary of the zone of saturation where soil or rock is fully saturated with water.
1065
How does building up rather than out reduce urban runoff?
Vertical (high-density) urban development uses less land area than horizontal sprawl, preserving more natural land that allows for water infiltration. It minimizes impervious surface expansion, reducing runoff volume and preserving natural ecosystems and green space.
1066
How does the intensity of solar radiation change with latitude?
It decreases from the equator to the poles due to the shallower angle of sunlight.
1067
Why are organic fertilizers like compost beneficial for soil health?
Organic fertilizers such as compost release nutrients slowly as microbes break down organic matter. This slow release prevents nutrient runoff, improves water retention, supports microbial activity, and enhances long-term soil fertility more sustainably than synthetic fertilizers.
1068
Why do tropical rainforests support such lush vegetation and high biodiversity?
Warm and wet climate
1069
What are two major types of biofuels?
Ethanol (typically from fermented sugars in corn or sugarcane) and biodiesel (from plant oils like palm or soy).
1070
What environmental conditions lead to the highest productivity?
Warm temperatures, abundant water, and ample solar energy.
1071
What human impacts are caused by rising sea levels?
Flooding of coastal communities, saltwater intrusion into groundwater, displacement of people.
1072
What is incineration?
Burning solid waste to reduce its volume.
1073
Name an invasive plant that spreads rapidly in the U.S. South.
Kudzu vine.
1074
How much faster is the current extinction rate compared to background rates?
100–1000 times higher.
1075
What is Age-Specific Birth Rate?
The number of births per year among women of a specific age group.
1076
What are drift nets and why are they controversial?
Drift nets are massive nets that float in the water column. Fish get caught by their gills, but these nets often ensnare non-target species and contribute to high bycatch rates.
1077
How does climate change influence the spread of infectious diseases?
Warmer temperatures expand tropical climates, allowing vectors like mosquitoes (malaria, dengue, Zika) to survive in new areas.
1078
How does atmospheric warming lead to ocean warming?
The ocean absorbs infrared radiation radiated back by greenhouse gases.
1079
What is the pesticide treadmill?
A cycle where pests develop resistance to pesticides, leading to the need for stronger or new pesticides over time.
1080
What are the environmental impacts of urban sprawl?
Habitat fragmentation, increased vehicle emissions, and greater land consumption.
1081
What are the major sources of air pollutants?
Transportation, industry, agriculture, and natural sources like wildfires and volcanoes.
1082
What is a nonpoint source of pollution?
Pollution produced from a more diffuse, broadly defined area, like pesticide spraying or urban runoff.
1083
Does succession occur in aquatic ecosystems?
Yes, it can happen in intertidal zones, streams after flooding, and shallow lakes over thousands of years.
1084
Why isnt tertiary treatment always used?
It is expensive and not mandatory at all treatment plants.
1085
How is biodiesel different from ethanol?
Biodiesel is made directly from plant oils without fermentation, often from soy, canola, or palm.
1086
Give an example of a species with a reduced realized niche due to competition.
Red-winged blackbirds are displaced from deep-water nesting sites by yellow-headed blackbirds.
1087
Why has aquaculture not fully delivered on its promise to reduce pressure on wild fisheries?
While aquaculture was expected to ease strain on wild fish stocks, many high-value farmed species like salmon are carnivorous and require fishmeal and fish oil—often derived from wild-caught fish—as feed. This creates a paradox where farming fish can still indirectly contribute to overfishing, especially in forage fisheries like anchovy or menhaden populations used in feed production.
1088
How can municipalities help reduce urban thermal pollution?
Increase green spaces and use reflective or permeable pavement.
1089
What is a spring?
A natural discharge point where groundwater flows to the surface.
1090
Why do developing nations use more total global energy despite lower per capita use?
Because they have larger populations that cumulatively consume more energy.
1091
What does abiotic mean?
Abiotic refers to non-living physical and chemical factors like temperature, pH, salinity, and rainfall Does not have cells
1092
Name one species that struggles to grow in more acidic water.
Sea urchins struggle to grow because reduced carbonate ion availability makes it harder for them to build and maintain their calcium carbonate structures, leading to smaller sizes.
1093
How does acid rain affect regions differently based on geology?
Areas with limestone bedrock can naturally neutralize acid rain better than others.
1094
Why is carbon dioxide considered the primary driver of recent global warming?
CO‚ÇÇ is the most abundant and persistent greenhouse gas influencing temperature rise.
1095
How do sea otters act as keystone species?
They control sea urchin populations, preserving kelp forests.
1096
Name three techniques used in sustainable forestry.
Three common techniques used in sustainable forestry are selective cutting, reforestation, and the use of low-impact logging equipment. Selective cutting involves removing only certain trees—typically the oldest or most diseased—which helps maintain forest structure, preserve habitats, and allow younger trees to grow. Reforestation is the process of planting new trees, usually of the same species that were originally there, to restore areas that have been logged and to support biodiversity. Low-impact logging equipment, such as smaller machinery or even animals like horses, is used to minimize soil compaction, which reduces harm to the forest floor and promotes healthy regrowth.
1097
How do landfills contribute to climate change?
Emitting methane (CH‚ÇÑ) and carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ), both greenhouse gases.
1098
What impact does ocean acidification have on shellfish?
Harder shell formation, reduced growth, and increased mortality.
1099
What is ecological tolerance?
The range of abiotic and biotic conditions an organism can endure before injury or death occurs.
1100
What is the difference between natural and cultural eutrophication?
Natural eutrophication happens over time due to ecological succession; cultural eutrophication is caused by human activities.
1101
How does fluidized bed combustion help reduce acid rain?
It burns coal at lower temperatures, reducing NO‚Çì emissions.
1102
What happens if genetically modified or non-native fish escape from aquaculture enclosures?
They can become invasive, outcompeting native species, spreading disease, or hybridizing with wild populations, leading to ecological and genetic consequences.
1103
Why is genetic diversity important in an ecosystem?
It allows populations to respond better to environmental stressors. At least a few individuals are more likely to survive with high genetic diversity within a population.
1104
How does light availability affect aquatic photosynthesis?
Red light is absorbed in the upper 1 meter, and blue light can penetrate up to 100 meters in clear water.
1105
Which two regions are losing ice mass significantly?
Greenland and Antarctica.
1106
How do photovoltaic (PV) cells generate electricity?
PV cells convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect, where photons knock electrons loose in a semiconductor material, creating an electric current.
1107
What type of organisms typically show a Type III survivorship curve?
r-selected species, such as insects, fish, and plants.
1108
What fraction of MSW is organic material?
About two-thirds, mostly food waste and yard trimmings.
1109
What is the source of most atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ?
Fossil fuel combustion and deforestation.
1110
Name three ecological services provided by wetlands.
Water purification, flood control, and habitat provision.
1111
What is the primary cause of new invasive species introductions?
Global trade and travel.
1112
What gene is added to BT corn to enable pest resistance?
A gene from Bacillus thuringiensis that allows the corn to produce BT crystals toxic to caterpillars and other pests.
1113
Why does air density decrease with altitude?
Because gravity pulls air molecules closer to Earths surface, making lower layers denser.
1114
What factors increase population growth?
Higher TFR, high infant mortality, high immigration, and access to clean water and healthcare.
1115
How have Roundup Ready crops influenced herbicide use?
They’ve increased herbicide use, as farmers apply glyphosate more freely, leading to environmental concerns.
1116
What is the silver carp and why is it considered a major invasive threat in the U.S.?
Silver carp are fish originally introduced from Asia to control algae in fish farms. They escaped into U.S. rivers like the Mississippi, where they outcompete native species for food. They are notorious for leaping out of the water when disturbed by boats, growing up to 40 pounds, and can injure boaters and damage boats.
1117
Why are generalists more successful invasive species than specialists?
They adapt more easily to new food sources and habitats.
1118
What is noise pollution?
Sound at levels high enough to cause physiological stress and hearing loss.
1119
How can better manure management protect wetlands?
Prevents nutrient pollution by containing animal waste on farms.
1120
Why are antibiotics commonly used in aquaculture?
To prevent bacterial diseases in densely stocked environments where infection spreads quickly. However, excessive use can lead to resistance and pollution.
1121
What is seafloor spreading?
The formation of new oceanic crust as magma rises at mid-ocean ridges.
1122
What pollutants are produced by waste incineration?
Carbon dioxide, particulate matter, SOx, and NOx.
1123
Why is eating at a lower trophic level more energy-efficient?
Consuming producers (plants) bypasses energy loss that occurs when transferring energy through animals, making it a more efficient use of resources.
1124
How do invasive species typically impact ecosystems?
They outcompete, prey upon, or bring diseases to native species, often leading to declines in native biodiversity.
1125
What are the health impacts of nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì)?
Respiratory irritants that increase the risk of infections and contribute to acid rain and smog.
1126
How does ocean warming impact migratory routes?
Changes in temperature can cause species to migrate earlier or to different areas.
1127
What is acid neutralization by limestone in ecosystems called?
Buffering.
1128
How much stronger is nitrous oxide at trapping heat compared to carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ)?
Nitrous oxide is about 300 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.
1129
What are common characteristics of a country in Phase 4 of the demographic transition?
High levels of education and affluence, aging population, and possible labor shortages.
1130
Why is petroleum ideal for transportation?
Its liquid state allows easy transport and high energy density makes it efficient for mobile engines like cars, planes.
1131
What is polar amplification?
A phenomenon where polar regions warm faster than the rest of Earth due to albedo feedback and heat transport.
1132
Why is the shellfish industry particularly vulnerable to acidification?
Shellfish struggle to build and maintain shells, impacting supply and jobs.
1133
How do smart meters support energy conservation?
They provide real-time usage data and support variable pricing, encouraging users to shift use to off-peak times.
1134
What organization enforces the Clean Air Act?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
1135
What are some examples of nonrenewable energy sources?
Coal, oil, natural gas, and uranium used in nuclear power.
1136
How does tar sand extraction impact the environment?
Deforestation, water depletion, toxic tailing ponds, and CO‚ÇÇ emissions from machinery and extraction processes.
1137
What are booms used for in oil spill cleanup?
Floating barriers that contain and concentrate oil spills for easier removal.
1138
How have restrictive zoning laws affected affordable housing and homelessness in U.S. cities?
Restrictive zoning laws, such as those favoring single-family homes, have limited the construction of affordable, high-density housing. This has led to housing shortages, increased costs, and, in some cases, heightened rates of homelessness as lower-income residents struggle to find affordable options.
1139
How does spray irrigation operate?
Water is sprayed over crops using sprinklers or pivot systems, simulating rainfall for more controlled distribution.
1140
What does it mean for a species to be a generalist?
It can survive in a wide range of environments and consume various food sources.
1141
What pollutants remain after secondary treatment?
Persistent organic pollutants, some nitrogen, and phosphorus.
1142
What is strip mining?
A surface mining technique where strips of soil and rock are removed to expose ore underneath; often used for coal and sand.
1143
What does a larger 15-44 cohort compared to 0-14 suggest?
A declining population.
1144
What are the four major categories of pesticides?
Insecticides (insects), herbicides (plants), fungicides (fungi), and rodenticides (rodents).
1145
How does algae affect the albedo of water?
Algae decrease albedo, causing more heat absorption.
1146
What sectors generate solid waste?
Domestic, industrial, business, and agricultural sectors.
1147
What are some environmental drawbacks of tree plantations?
Tree plantations reduce biodiversity, deplete soil nutrients, often require fertilization, and resemble monocropping, leading to ecological instability.
1148
What is a forest stewardship plan?
A forest stewardship plan is a detailed, long-term management strategy created by landowners and forestry professionals to guide how a forest will be used and protected. It balances ecological goals—such as preserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, and protecting water quality—with economic objectives, like harvesting timber in a way that ensures the forest can continue to grow and be productive in the future.
1149
What is a wind farm or wind project?
A group of turbines located in a single area to collectively generate electricity, often in rural or coastal locations.
1150
Why is the carbon cycle important?
It regulates Earths climate, supports life by cycling carbon through ecosystems, and influences energy flow in food webs.
1151
What is a trap crop and how is it used in pest control?
A trap crop is planted to attract pests away from the main crop, acting as a decoy to reduce damage.
1152
What impact does ocean warming have on metabolism of marine species?
Higher metabolism rates require more oxygen.
1153
How much has the ocean’s pH dropped since the 1800s?
From about 8.2 to 8.1.
1154
How does sustainable forestry address climate change?
It promotes carbon sequestration through tree planting and management, helping mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
1155
What is the background extinction rate?
The natural rate of species extinctions without human influence, about 1 species per million per year.
1156
What is the order of an ecological pyramid from bottom to top?
Primary Producer ‚Üí Primary Consumer ‚Üí Secondary Consumer ‚Üí Tertiary Consumer ‚Üí Quaternary Consumer
1157
Why might acid rain be a problem even in areas without many factories?
Air pollutants can travel long distances in the atmosphere before falling to the ground as acid rain.
1158
How does urbanization contribute to CO2 emissions?
Through construction activities, deforestation, cement production, fossil fuel use, and waste in landfills.
1159
Give an example of directional selection.
The evolution of darker-colored peppered moths during the Industrial Revolution.
1160
What is the lithosphere?
The rigid outermost layer of Earth, including the crust and upper mantle.
1161
How do CFCs deplete ozone?
UV radiation breaks off chlorine atoms from CFCs; chlorine atoms catalytically destroy ozone molecules without being consumed.
1162
Name two human activities that increase ocean sedimentation.
Construction (e.g., building roads or cities) and deforestation; also farming without soil conservation practices.
1163
Give examples of natural and anthropogenic sources of VOCs.
Natural sources: trees (like pine trees). Anthropogenic sources: gasoline, paint, dry cleaning chemicals.
1164
What happens during the June solstice?
The Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun; longest day in the north; Sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer.
1165
What is one major environmental impact during the initial formation of a hydroelectric dam, such as the Three Gorges Dam in China?
Flooding upstream displaces ecosystems and people; the Three Gorges Dam flooded over 600 km² and displaced over 1 million people.
1166
What replaced HCFCs in later stages?
HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons), which do not deplete ozone but are strong greenhouse gases.
1167
What is the sterile insect technique in pest management?
A biological method where sterile males are released to reduce reproduction in the pest population.
1168
What is open-pit mining?
Involves digging a large pit to extract ore located near the surface; commonly used for copper.
1169
What is a dead zone in aquatic ecosystems?
An area so low in dissolved oxygen that aquatic life cannot survive.
1170
How did chemical fertilizers contribute to the Green Revolution?
They provided essential nutrients to crops, leading to increased growth and higher yields.
1171
How does plant and animal respiration release CO‚ÇÇ?
Through cellular respiration, which converts oxygen and glucose into CO‚ÇÇ, water, and energy.
1172
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Air pollution from vehicles in a city leads to health issues among residents.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The air is a shared resource, and pollution from individual actions harms the community.
1173
What type of radiation is primarily emitted by the Sun?
Visible light and ultraviolet radiation.
1174
Which organisms break down organic matter to produce ammonia during ammonification?
Decomposer bacteria feed on waste and return nitrogen to the soil as ammonia.
1175
What is composting?
The controlled decomposition of organic matter such as food scraps and yard waste to produce fertilizer.
1176
What type of plants are common in wetlands?
Emergent vegetation—plants with roots anchored in submerged soil and parts above the water.
1177
What is a retrospective study?
A study monitoring individuals exposed to a pollutant in the past.
1178
What are some drawbacks of ethanol as a fuel?
Lower energy density than gasoline, intensive land use, water consumption, and competition with food supply.
1179
What are the three largest producers of hydroelectric power globally?
China, Brazil, and the United States.
1180
How is the type of solar radiation from the Sun different from Earths outgoing radiation?
Solar radiation is mainly ultraviolet and visible light, while Earths outgoing radiation is mostly infrared.
1181
What is base saturation in soil chemistry?
The percentage of soil bases (e.g., Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, K⁺) compared to acids (e.g., H⁺, Al³⁺).
1182
What organisms have temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD)?
Some turtles, reptiles, and fish.
1183
How does the feed used in aquaculture affect sustainability?
Traditional feeds rely on wild-caught fish (fishmeal, fish oil), undermining sustainability. Alternatives like soy, algae, or insect protein can reduce environmental impact and promote circular aquaculture systems.
1184
What urban feature makes cities more prone to photochemical smog?
Urban heat island effect — cities are hotter due to dark surfaces like asphalt that absorb sunlight.
1185
What are the main natural sources of methane in the atmosphere?
Methane mainly comes from livestock digestion, wetlands, landfills, and natural gas extraction.
1186
How does bottom trawling impact aquatic ecosystems?
Physically destroys coral reefs, stirs up sediment, kills benthic organisms, and reduces habitat complexity.
1187
What is permeable pavement, and how does it help reduce runoff?
Permeable pavement is designed with porous materials that allow rainwater to pass through and infiltrate into the soil beneath. This reduces surface runoff, filters pollutants before they enter the water table, recharges groundwater, and helps prevent urban flooding during heavy rain events.
1188
What is a major environmental concern associated with hydrogen fuel cells?
The production of hydrogen often involves fossil fuels like natural gas, which can negate some of the environmental benefits.
1189
Why is hydroelectricity considered a renewable energy source?
It relies on the water cycle, which is naturally replenished by precipitation and gravity.
1190
What role does albedo play in Earths temperature?
High-albedo surfaces reflect solar energy and help cool the planet, while low-albedo surfaces absorb energy and warm the planet.
1191
Rank the countries from highest to lowest 0-14 population: India, US, Germany, China.
India > China > US > Germany.
1192
What happens to an organism outside its optimum environmental range?
It experiences physiological stress, reduced growth, lower reproduction rates, and may eventually die.
1193
What is mesothelioma?
A cancer linked mainly to asbestos exposure, affecting lung linings.
1194
What type of pollution source is a smokestack emitting gases into the atmosphere?
Point Source
1195
What is a potential unintended consequence of aquaculture on the marine environment?
Nutrient over-enrichment (eutrophication) from waste and feed runoff can lead to algal blooms, hypoxia (low oxygen), fish kills, and degradation of coral reefs or seagrass beds.
1196
What is an example of a beneficial exotic species?
Honeybees (originally exotic to North America).
1197
Which crops are well-suited for flood irrigation?
Crops like rice, cranberries, and sometimes pasture grasses or alfalfa tolerate saturated soil conditions.
1198
Why are estuaries important for biodiversity?
They serve as crucial breeding and nursery grounds for many species.
1199
What is erosion?
The removal and transportation of soil or rock by water, wind, ice, or biological activity.
1200
How does furrow irrigation work?
Water is distributed through shallow ditches along crop rows, seeping into the soil to hydrate plant roots.
1201
What can landfills be used for after they are filled and capped?
They are often converted into parks or other recreational areas.
1202
What does a faster drop in a survivorship curve indicate?
A quicker die-off of individuals.
1203
What is fire suppression and how can it negatively affect forests?
Fire suppression is the practice of putting out natural forest fires as soon as they start. It can hurt the forest in the long run by allowing biomass to build up, creating more fuel for large fires and disrupting nutrient cycling.
1204
How does crop rotation serve IPM goals?
It breaks pest life cycles by changing host plant availability, a cultural method.
1205
How does habitat destruction due to natural causes impact species differently?
Specialists may be lost quickly due to narrow habitat needs, while generalists may initially survive but eventually also decline.
1206
Where are tropical rainforests mostly located?
Tropics (Central/South America, SE Asia, Africa)
1207
What percentage of natural CO‚ÇÇ emissions come from ocean-atmosphere exchange?
Approximately 40%.
1208
How can pesticide or antibiotic resistance illustrate evolution?
Organisms with resistance alleles survive and reproduce, increasing the frequency of those alleles in the population (directional selection).
1209
What is a disease vector?
An organism, often an insect like a mosquito or tick, that transmits pathogens causing disease.
1210
What are provisioning services?
Goods/products directly provided to humans by ecosystems for sale or use, such as fish, lumber, honey, and wild grains.
1211
What is the ecological goal of sustainable forestry?
To preserve forest ecosystems and their biodiversity while allowing for the use of forest products over the long term.
1212
How might a change in environmental conditions increase a species population?
If the change enhances the species’ ability to survive, reproduce, or flourish, its population may grow.
1213
What are the major causes of cultural eutrophication?
Agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, fertilizer runoff, and sediment erosion from inland areas.
1214
What happens if food-contaminated recyclables enter the recycling system?
They can ruin entire batches of recyclable materials.
1215
What is the E horizon known for?
Eluviation or leaching of minerals and organic compounds downward into the B horizon.
1216
What is selective cutting and why is it used?
Selective cutting is a forestry practice where only specific trees are harvested—usually the oldest, largest, or those that are diseased—while the rest of the forest remains untouched. This technique helps to maintain forest structure, protect wildlife habitats, and reduce soil erosion because most of the forest cover stays in place. It also supports natural regeneration, meaning that young trees can continue to grow without being shaded out or disturbed, which helps keep the forest productive and healthy over the long term.
1217
Where does primary succession begin?
In places without any soil, such as sides of volcanoes, landslides, and areas after flooding.
1218
Can you list the nine major types of terrestrial biomes found around the world?
Taiga, Rainforests, Forests, Shrubland, Grassland, Savanna, Desert, Tundra
1219
What is the Montreal Protocol?
A 1987 international agreement to reduce and phase out production of ozone-depleting substances like CFCs.
1220
What makes an infectious disease different from a noninfectious disease?
Infectious diseases are transmissible between organisms (e.g., COVID-19, malaria), while noninfectious diseases (e.g., cancer, diabetes) are not.
1221
What happens to species when habitat is lost?
Specialist species are lost first, followed by generalist species; species requiring large territories also decline.
1222
How does water help regulate climate?
By absorbing and releasing heat slowly, water moderates temperature fluctuations and stabilizes climate.
1223
How are the three convection cells (Hadley, Ferrell, Polar) arranged?
From equator to poles: Hadley (0°–30°), Ferrell (30°–60°), Polar (60°–90°).
1224
What is the main difference in energy flow between electrolysis and hydrogen fuel cells?
Electrolysis requires electricity to produce hydrogen, while fuel cells use hydrogen to produce electricity.
1225
How does ENSO illustrate the connection between oceans and atmosphere?
ENSO demonstrates how changes in ocean temperatures and currents can drive large-scale atmospheric and climate patterns.
1226
What is parasitism?
A relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another
1227
Why is it important to know that red light is absorbed quickly and blue light penetrates deeper in water?
Because it explains why photosynthesis in aquatic ecosystems mostly occurs near the surface, where light is available, and why aquatic producers must adapt to limited light conditions at greater depths.
1228
What are the top countries with the largest oil reserves?
Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Iran, and Iraq possess the largest oil reserves.
1229
What is a fishery collapse and what are its consequences?
A fishery collapse occurs when a fish population declines by over 90%, leading to biodiversity loss, reduced genetic diversity, and economic devastation for dependent communities.
1230
How does phosphorus enter the soil and water ecosystems?
Through the weathering of rocks.
1231
What is mechanical/physical pest control in IPM?
Removing or excluding pests using barriers, traps, or manual methods like hand-picking or tilling.
1232
What is agroforestry?
Agroforestry is a land-use practice that combines trees with crops or livestock to enhance biodiversity, improve soil and water quality, and increase overall sustainability.
1233
What is terracing and what problems does it address?
Terracing is the cutting of flat platforms into steep hillsides, creating level planting areas that trap water and topsoil. It allows agriculture on steep terrain and prevents rapid erosion during rainfall.
1234
What is standard of living?
The quality of life based on economic and health indicators like GDP and life expectancy.
1235
What does cultural eutrophication mean?
Eutrophication caused by human activities.
1236
What is a manure lagoon?
Large open pits where animal waste is stored, often from CAFOs, containing pollutants like ammonia, hormones, antibiotics, and fecal bacteria.
1237
How can waste from manure lagoons be repurposed?
Waste can be dried and processed into fertilizer pellets to reduce environmental impact.
1238
What is species richness?
The number of different species found in an ecosystem.
1239
Which regions have the highest solar energy potential?
Regions with high solar irradiance, such as deserts in the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, have the highest solar energy potential.
1240
What is Gross Domestic Product (GDP)?
The total value of goods and services produced in a country; per capita GDP = GDP / total population.
1241
What are biofuels and how are they different from biomass?
Biofuels are liquid fuels like ethanol and biodiesel made from biomass, used mainly as gasoline alternatives in vehicles.
1242
Give examples of low-albedo surfaces.
Oceans, forests, asphalt.
1243
How does Earths tilt impact day length throughout the year?
As Earth orbits the Sun, different hemispheres receive longer daylight during their respective summer seasons.
1244
What is a metapopulation?
A group of separated populations connected by occasional movement between them.
1245
What is infiltration in the hydrologic cycle?
The process where water soaks into the soil and percolates into groundwater systems.
1246
What is the primary source of nitrous oxide emissions?
Agricultural soil management with synthetic fertilizers.
1247
How can human activity disturb watershed dynamics?
Through deforestation, urban development, over-irrigation, and pollution.
1248
How can hydroelectric power be combined with solar or wind energy to ensure a constant power supply?
Hydroelectric systems can provide backup power when solar or wind sources are intermittent.
1249
What type of population growth occurs in Phase 2?
Rapid exponential population growth.
1250
What is the formula for calculating the energy cost of an appliance?
Energy Cost = Power (kW) √ó Time (hours) √ó Cost per kWh.
1251
What type of watershed is prone to high runoff and flooding due to impervious surfaces?
Urban watershed.
1252
How is coral bleaching different from ocean acidification?
Coral bleaching is mainly caused by rising water temperatures, while acidification is caused by CO‚ÇÇ absorption.
1253
Why do POPs accumulate in living organisms?
POPs are lipophilic (fat-soluble), leading them to accumulate in fatty tissues of organisms, a process known as bioaccumulation.
1254
What is surface runoff?
Water that flows over land surfaces into streams, rivers, or lakes instead of infiltrating.
1255
What are the five major environmental indicators used to assess sustainability?
Biodiversity, food production, global surface temperature and CO‚ÇÇ levels, human population, and resource depletion.
1256
What causes tectonic plates to move?
Convection currents in the semi-molten asthenosphere.
1257
What is the purpose of a cooling tower in a nuclear plant?
It condenses steam back into liquid water and releases excess heat as water vapor, allowing the water to be reused.
1258
What is the global concern with phosphorus supply?
Readily accessible supplies may be depleted in the next century, making food production unsustainable.
1259
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A community implements a quota system to regulate fishing in a shared lake.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The quota system is a form of regulation to prevent overexploitation of the shared resource.
1260
What role can government policy play in TFR?
Governments have used coercive (e.g., one-child policies) or noncoercive (e.g., tax incentives, education) methods to influence fertility rates.
1261
Why might air pollution levels increase during rush hour traffic?
There are more vehicles on the road releasing primary pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.
1262
How does unsanitary water lead to disease spread? Give examples.
Contaminated water spreads cholera, dysentery, hepatitis A.
1263
What is the main difference in sources of indoor air pollution between developing and developed nations?
Developing nations rely on subsistence fuels like wood and charcoal, while developed nations are affected more by industrial products like cleaners, paints, and insulation.
1264
What caused the Chernobyl disaster, and when did it occur?
In 1986, a safety test failure in Ukraine caused a full meltdown, explosions, and widespread radiation release.
1265
What is the Clean Air Act, when was it passed, and what does it regulate?
Passed in 1970, the Clean Air Act regulates air emissions and authorizes the EPA to set limits on six criteria pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ), nitrogen dioxide (NO‚ÇÇ), ground-level ozone (O‚ÇÉ), lead (Pb), and particulate matter (PM).
1266
What does reuse mean in waste management?
Directly using a product again without needing additional energy or raw materials.
1267
What is a drawback of using permeable pavement?
Although effective, permeable pavement is often more expensive to install and maintain than traditional asphalt or concrete. It can also become clogged with debris over time if not properly maintained, which reduces its effectiveness.
1268
What are planetary (prevailing) winds?
Large-scale wind systems driven by Earths rotation and solar heating, influencing regional climates.
1269
Why does warm air rise at the equator?
Because it is less dense and contains more moisture, leading to low pressure and cloud formation.
1270
What health issues are associated with human exposure to POPs?
Cancer, immune system suppression, reproductive disorders, and endocrine disruption.
1271
What role do tectonic processes play in the rock cycle?
They recycle rock material through melting, cooling, weathering, and reformation.
1272
How do species respond to frequent disruptions?
They may evolve traits that enhance resilience or recovery, such as rapid reproduction or seed dormancy.
1273
What is peak electricity demand and why is it a concern?
Times when energy use is highest, which can exceed supply and cause blackouts unless managed properly.
1274
What kind of climate and rainfall define a desert biome?
Hot and very dry
1275
How can urban growth boundaries mitigate urban sprawl?
By setting limits on outward development, encouraging vertical growth and redevelopment within cities.
1276
What is particulate matter and why is it harmful?
Tiny particles in the air that can enter the lungs and cause respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
1277
What is the long (slow) carbon cycle?
The movement of carbon through geological processes over millions of years, like fossil fuel formation and sedimentation.
1278
What does the term organic signify in POPs?
It indicates that these compounds are carbon-based.
1279
What is condensation in the hydrologic cycle?
The process where water vapor cools and changes into liquid water, forming clouds.
1280
What is a carbon sink?
A system that absorbs more CO‚ÇÇ than it releases, reducing atmospheric carbon (e.g., forests, oceans).
1281
Why is drip irrigation not widely used for all crops?
High cost and impracticality for large-scale crops like corn and wheat limit its widespread use.
1282
Why is biomass rarely used to generate electricity?
It is less energy-dense and more time-intensive to gather compared to fossil fuels.
1283
How do you convert grams to kilograms?
1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g).
1284
What is transpiration?
The release of water vapor from plant leaves into the atmosphere.
1285
What occurs during La Niña conditions?
Stronger than normal trade winds push warm surface water further west, enhancing upwelling off South America and causing a steeper thermocline.
1286
What happens to air on the windward side of a mountain?
Air rises, expands, cools, condenses, and causes precipitation.
1287
What is doubling time in demography?
The number of years it takes for a population to double at a constant RNI.
1288
Why is ocean acidification considered a serious long-term threat?
It threatens food security, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability.
1289
What are the consequences of reduced upwelling during El Niño?
Fewer nutrients at the surface, collapse of fisheries, and decreased biodiversity in affected marine ecosystems.
1290
Give examples of pollutants that impact wetlands.
Sediment, motor oil, pesticides, and heavy metals.
1291
What is an aquifer?
A layer of permeable rock or sediment that stores groundwater.
1292
What human health issues are associated with particulate matter from tilling?
Increased particulate matter can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
1293
What is one economic advantage of genetically modified crops?
They can increase crop yields and reduce pesticide costs, boosting short-term profits.
1294
What makes drip irrigation the most efficient method?
It delivers water directly to plant roots via tubing, reducing evaporation and runoff—over 95% efficiency.
1295
What is formaldehyde and why is it concerning?
A VOC found in furniture and building materials that may cause cancer and respiratory issues.
1296
What is one unintended consequence of disease in aquaculture?
Pathogens (e.g., sea lice, viruses) from high-density enclosures can enter wild populations, leading to large-scale ecological and economic damage, particularly for sensitive or endangered species.
1297
What is lead and where is it found indoors?
A toxic metal found in older paints, pipes, and dust.
1298
What is the carbon cycle?
The continuous movement of carbon atoms between Earths systems: the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
1299
What is a cohort in the context of survivorship curves?
A group of same-aged individuals in a population tracked from birth to death.
1300
What are some key pollutants from coal combustion?
Sulfur dioxide (acid rain), nitrogen oxides (smog), mercury, arsenic, lead, and particulate matter.
1301
How do catalytic converters reduce carbon monoxide (CO)?
They oxidize carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide: 2CO + O‚ÇÇ ‚Üí 2CO‚ÇÇ.
1302
What determines the intensity of solar radiation received on Earth?
The angle of incidence, Earths tilt, and latitude.
1303
Why is it important to use chemical control as a last resort in IPM?
It ensures environmental safety and sustainability, only applying chemicals when absolutely necessary.
1304
What are two ways thermal pollution can be prevented in power plants?
Use of cooling towers and reusing cooling water before discharge.
1305
In which process is hydrogen a fuel, and in which is it a product?
In a hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen is the fuel; in electrolysis, hydrogen is the product.
1306
What is BOD (biochemical oxygen demand)?
The amount of oxygen needed by bacteria to decompose organic matter; higher BOD means more pollution.
1307
How can noise pollution affect animal migration?
Disruption of auditory cues and increased stress can cause animals to alter or abandon traditional migratory routes.
1308
What are major environmental drawbacks of geothermal energy?
Release of hydrogen sulfide, groundwater depletion, land use, and noise pollution.
1309
What happens to fish species as oceans warm?
They migrate to cooler waters, altering ecosystems.
1310
Why are tundra ecosystems shrinking?
Global warming causes forests to migrate northward, reducing tundra areas.
1311
Why does ozone concentration typically peak in the afternoon?
Because sunlight has accumulated during the day, driving reactions that produce more ozone from earlier NOx and VOC emissions.
1312
Besides rats, what other animals can carry plague?
Mice, squirrels, prairie dogs.
1313
What impact has fracking had on natural gas availability?
Fracking has significantly increased natural gas production, especially in the United States, leading to greater availability and lower prices.
1314
What is nitrogen saturation and what harm can it cause in ecosystems?
Too much nitrogen can harm soil, water, and reduce plant diversity.
1315
What controls traits in organisms?
Genes control traits. Most genes have multiple forms called alleles, which can influence different phenotypes.
1316
What drives global wind patterns?
Unequal solar heating at the equator, density differences in air, and the Coriolis effect.
1317
What are the positives and negatives of increased pesticide use during the Green Revolution?
Positives: Higher yields due to fewer crop losses. Negatives: Harm to non-target species (e.g., bees), runoff pollution, and health effects on animals (e.g., DDT and Atrazine).
1318
How does mercury most commonly enter the human body?
By eating seafood, especially large predatory fish like tuna.
1319
What is one way to reduce nonpoint source pollution in urban areas?
Using green infrastructure like rain gardens, permeable pavement, and vegetated swales to capture and filter runoff.
1320
What is percolation?
The downward movement of water through soil and porous rock layers, replenishing aquifers.
1321
What causes sick building syndrome?
Poor ventilation, indoor/outdoor chemical contamination, and biological contaminants.
1322
Why might some extinction estimates vary widely?
Many species, especially small invertebrates, are not well-studied or even discovered.
1323
How frequently does ENSO occur?
Approximately every 3-7 years.
1324
What is the estimated annual economic cost of invasive species in the U.S.?
$120 billion.
1325
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
A sustainable pest control strategy that uses a mix of biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools to minimize environmental harm and chemical reliance.
1326
What are the two sizes of particulate matter regulated by the EPA?
PM‚ÇÅ‚ÇÄ (particles less than 10 micrometers) and PM‚ÇÇ.‚ÇÖ (particles less than 2.5 micrometers).
1327
Why do highly populated regions tend to use less coal?
Highly populated regions often use less coal due to concerns about air pollution and its associated health impacts.
1328
What’s the difference between photochemical smog and haze?
Smog involves chemical reactions, often involving VOCs and sunlight; haze is due to PM causing light scattering.
1329
How can fertilizer runoff chemically alter aquatic ecosystems?
Fertilizer runoff adds excess nutrients like nitrates or phosphates, causing eutrophication and oxygen depletion.
1330
How do oil spills affect marine mammals?
Oil coats fur, reducing insulation (e.g., sea otters), impairs swimming (e.g., seals), and can cause drowning.
1331
What are the three different ways to solve the Tragedy of the Commons?
1. Privatization – Assign ownership of resources so individuals have an incentive to manage them sustainably. 2. Government Regulation – Implement laws, quotas, permits, or protected areas to control usage and prevent overexploitation. 3. Community Management – Empower local communities to manage resources with agreed-upon rules, monitoring, and shared responsibilities.
1332
Why do many island species evolve to be specialists?
Due to limited resources such as food and territory.
1333
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A community garden assigns specific plots to individuals, who are responsible for their maintenance.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The garden is divided into privately managed plots, reducing the risk of overuse.
1334
What is the primary goal of sustainable forestry?
The primary goal of sustainable forestry is to manage forests in a way that meets current needs for resources like wood and paper without damaging the health of the forest ecosystem. This means protecting biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem services, and ensuring that the forest can regenerate and continue to provide benefits in the future.
1335
How does affluence relate to ecological footprint?
Wealthier individuals tend to consume more resources and energy, leading to larger ecological footprints.
1336
How does a similar size between 0-14 and 15-44 age groups affect population trends?
Indicates slight growth or population stability.
1337
What is albedo?
The percentage of incoming sunlight reflected from a surface.
1338
Why cant plants and animals use nitrogen gas (N‚ÇÇ) from the atmosphere directly?
Because N‚ÇÇ is a stable, unreactive gas, it must be converted into usable forms like ammonia or nitrates first so that plants can take them up via their roots
1339
How does oil affect seabirds?
Oil coats feathers, impairs flight, causes hypothermia, and limits ability to find food; examples include pelicans and puffins.
1340
What is thermal expansion?
The increase in water volume as it warms, contributing to sea level rise.
1341
How is productivity measured?
In units of energy per unit area per unit time (e.g., kcal/m²/year).
1342
What is the GWP of methane (CH‚ÇÑ)?
Between 23 and 84, depending on time scale.
1343
What adaptations do desert plants have for surviving dry conditions?
Small leaves or spines
1344
Why do polar species like seals and polar bears struggle with melting ice?
Loss of sea ice reduces resting and hunting areas critical to their survival.
1345
What are transform boundaries?
Boundaries where plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.
1346
What is eutrophication and how can it be linked to thermal pollution?
Nutrient enrichment of water bodies leading to algal blooms, worsened by warm water.
1347
How is Maximum Sustainable Yield measured and used in fisheries management?
It is calculated using data on a species’ reproductive rate, population growth, and mortality. Fisheries managers use it to set catch limits that keep fish populations at healthy, sustainable levels.
1348
What are CFCs, and where were they commonly used?
Chlorofluorocarbons, used in refrigerants, aerosol sprays, and foam insulation; valued for being stable, non-toxic, and non-flammable.
1349
What is the epicenter of an earthquake?
The point on Earth's surface directly above the earthquake’s origin.
1350
Which types of organisms are most affected by acidification?
Corals, mollusks (clams, oysters), sea urchins, and plankton.
1351
What mislabeling often occurs with geothermal home systems?
Ground source heat pumps are incorrectly called geothermal, though they don’t tap Earth’s core heat.
1352
How does the Coriolis effect influence global winds?
It causes the path of moving air to deflect to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
1353
Why are valleys and basins more prone to thermal inversions?
Cold, dense air tends to settle in low-lying areas like valleys. Mountains block wind and prevent air mixing, allowing pollutants to become trapped under a warm layer.
1354
What is another term commonly used to describe aquaculture?
Fish farming, especially when referring to the cultivation of finned fish like salmon, tilapia, or trout in controlled settings.
1355
What are some abiotic (physical) disruptions that can affect ecosystems?
Volcanic eruptions, hurricanes, fires, floods, and droughts, which can alter nutrients, water availability, light, salinity, shelter, soil, and temperature.
1356
What occurs during Phase 1 (Preindustrial) of the demographic transition?
High birth and death rates due to limited access to food, medical care, and sanitation; population growth is slow or stable.
1357
What is the cone of depression?
A lowering of the water table around a well that’s been pumped too rapidly.
1358
What is the sixth mass extinction?
An ongoing extinction event caused largely by human activities.
1359
What is municipal solid waste (MSW)?
Municipal solid waste (MSW) refers to trash or garbage discarded from households, businesses, schools, and industries.
1360
What is the role of root structures in preventing erosion?
Root structures anchor the soil, reducing the risk of wind and water erosion after harvest.
1361
How does water temperature affect dissolved oxygen levels?
Higher water temperatures result in lower dissolved oxygen levels.
1362
How does the First Green Revolution differ from the Second Green Revolution?
The First focused on increasing yields through chemical and mechanical means, while the Second emphasized biotechnology, genetic engineering, and environmental sustainability.
1363
What environmental impact is associated with hydroelectric power?
It may disrupt ecosystems near dams but doesn’t deplete water.
1364
How do r-selected species relate to survivorship curves?
They typically exhibit the Type III pattern.
1365
What chemicals are used in aquaculture, and why are they controversial?
Antibiotics, antifoulants, and pesticides are used to control disease and parasites. Their overuse contributes to antibiotic resistance and environmental toxicity, impacting surrounding marine organisms and food safety.
1366
What is an endocrine disruptor?
A chemical that interferes with hormone systems, often harming reproduction in wildlife.
1367
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Residents of an apartment complex overuse the communal laundry facilities, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance issues.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The laundry facilities are a shared resource, and overuse by individuals leads to their degradation.
1368
What is combustion and why is it important in air pollution?
Combustion is a chemical reaction between a fuel source and oxygen that releases energy, often producing pollutants like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulates, and sulfur dioxide.
1369
What does refuse mean in environmental science?
Another word for physical waste like trash or garbage.
1370
What is the thermosphere?
A layer above the mesosphere where temperatures increase with altitude due to absorption of high-energy solar radiation.
1371
What are the main precursors required to form photochemical smog?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and sunlight.
1372
How does sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ) form sulfuric acid (H‚ÇÇSO‚ÇÑ)?
SO‚ÇÇ reacts with water in the atmosphere to produce sulfuric acid (H‚ÇÇSO‚ÇÑ).
1373
What measurable impacts did the Clean Air Act have?
Decreased sulfur emissions, longer American life expectancy by 4–8 months, and overall improved air quality.
1374
What human health risk can be associated with aquaculture wastewater?
Wastewater can carry bacteria like *E. coli* and residual antibiotics, potentially contaminating drinking water or seafood and causing public health concerns.
1375
Define Respiration.
The amount of energy organisms use to produce the energy molecule ATP to be able to survive.
1376
What is the Rule of 70, and how is it used?
Doubling Time (years) = 70 / Annual Growth Rate (%); it estimates how long it takes for a quantity to double at a constant growth rate.
1377
What is habitat fragmentation?
When large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, harming species survival.
1378
What was the Green Revolution?
A period of agricultural transformation in the mid-20th century marked by increased crop yields through the use of high-yield crop varieties, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and advanced irrigation techniques.
1379
What type of organisms typically show a Type I survivorship curve?
K-selected species, such as large mammals and humans.
1380
What beneficial ecosystem services are lost with deforestation?
Deforestation removes trees and vegetation that provide essential ecosystem services such as carbon storage, climate regulation, air purification, and water cycle maintenance. Forests also provide habitat for a wide variety of species, support pollination, and prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the soil with their root systems. Losing these services can disrupt local climates, increase flooding, and contribute to biodiversity loss.
1381
What factors allow pathogens to spread more easily?
Increased travel, trade routes, unsanitary conditions, warmer climate zones, and pathogen evolution.
1382
How does ocean warming affect marine species distribution?
As oceans warm, species shift toward cooler areas to stay within optimal temperature ranges, impacting local ecosystems.
1383
How do meltdowns like Fukushima and Chernobyl affect ecosystems?
They can cause mutations in wildlife, contamination of soil and water, and long-term ecological disruption.
1384
Why is the greenhouse effect beneficial?
It keeps Earths surface warm enough to support life.
1385
How does radioactive contamination spread?
Radioactive particles can be carried by wind and contaminate areas far from the accident site.
1386
What are the three numbers on fertilizer packaging, e.g., 19-12-5?
Percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
1387
What is a mass extinction?
A short period of time in which a large number of species go extinct.
1388
What makes biomass burning carbon neutral?
The CO‚ÇÇ released was recently captured by plants, not newly added from ancient carbon stores like fossil fuels.
1389
If a city switches from coal to natural gas for energy, how might air pollution levels change?
Air pollution would likely decrease, especially sulfur dioxide and particulate emissions, because natural gas burns cleaner than coal.
1390
What is axial tilt (obliquity) and how does it affect Earths climate?
Its the angle of Earths tilt (22–24°) that affects the intensity of seasons, cycling every ~41,000 years.
1391
What is a hot spot?
A location where magma rises through the lithosphere independently of plate boundaries.
1392
How does hydroelectric power impact air pollution?
It produces no air pollutants during electricity generation, unlike fossil fuels.
1393
What type of energy is stored in water behind a dam?
Potential energy due to its elevated position.
1394
What are the main climate challenges for plant growth in the Taiga?
Cold temperatures
1395
How can phthalates enter the environment and become endocrine disruptors?
Through improper disposal of waste from manufacturing or leaking from municipal waste.
1396
Define Net Primary Productivity (NPP).
The energy that goes into growth or reproduction of photosynthesizers.
1397
What is gross primary productivity (GPP)?
The total amount of solar energy captured by producers through photosynthesis.
1398
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Multiple farmers overgraze their cattle on public rangelands, leading to soil erosion and loss of vegetation.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The rangelands are a shared resource, and overuse by individuals leads to degradation.
1399
How much is the estimated economic value of mangrove ecosystem services?
Mangroves provide significant economic benefits through fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection.
1400
What is a key advantage and disadvantage of furrow irrigation?
Advantage: Low cost and simple. Disadvantage: About 33% of water is lost to runoff, making it inefficient.
1401
How does lead affect human health?
It damages the nervous system, especially in children, causing learning disabilities and developmental delays.
1402
What health issues are associated with thermal inversions?
Increased asthma attacks, respiratory irritation, COPD flare-ups, and higher rates of hospitalizations.
1403
What is one economic disadvantage of using GM crops?
Long-term costs from herbicide dependence and vulnerability due to reduced genetic diversity.
1404
How does clearcutting affect air quality?
It reduces the number of trees that filter air pollutants, leading to decreased air purification.
1405
What is the EPAs recommendation for homes with potential radon problems?
Test for radon and mitigate by sealing cracks and improving ventilation.
1406
What is soil degradation?
A decline in soil quality due to overuse, erosion, or contamination.
1407
How does the demographic transition model help explain global population trends?
It links economic and social development to changes in birth and death rates, helping predict population growth patterns.
1408
What does the 10% rule state about energy transfer in trophic levels?
Only about 10% of the energy in one trophic level is passed on to the next level.
1409
Which greenhouse gas is the most abundant naturally?
Water vapor.
1410
What are some effects of biomagnification in ecosystems?
Developmental deformities, reproductive issues, eggshell thinning, and population declines in top predators.
1411
How else can Zika virus be transmitted besides mosquitoes?
Through sexual contact and from mother to fetus during pregnancy.
1412
What are the biological properties of soil?
Activity of organisms like bacteria, fungi, protozoa, earthworms, and insects that decompose matter and aerate soil.
1413
What is concentrated solar power (CSP), and how does it work?
CSP systems use mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight onto a small area, generating high temperatures that produce steam to drive turbines and generate electricity.
1414
How is cholera most commonly transmitted?
Drinking water contaminated with fecal material containing Vibrio cholerae bacteria.
1415
What is the net migration rate?
The difference between immigration and emigration per 1,000 people in a given year.
1416
What are some environmental stressors that affect biodiversity?
Natural disasters, pollution, wildfires, drought, thermal stress, predation, parasitism, and lack of mates.
1417
Why does secondary succession occur faster than primary succession?
Because soil and nutrients are already present.
1418
Why are rodent models (mice/rats) used in toxicology studies?
They serve as surrogates for mammals, including humans, for practical and ethical reasons.
1419
Explain how carbon monoxide acts as an asphyxiant at the molecular level.
CO binds to hemoglobin more readily than oxygen, preventing oxygen transport in the blood, leading to suffocation.
1420
What feature is commonly used to classify different types of terrestrial biomes?
Rainfall and temperature patterns, and plant life
1421
How has human activity disrupted natural climate cycles?
By emitting greenhouse gases, speeding up global warming beyond natural rates.
1422
What is a positive feedback loop?
A loop that accelerates the original event, ensuring it occurs faster.
1423
At what stage are most nitrogen and phosphorus compounds targeted for additional removal?
Tertiary treatment, through chemical or ecological filtration.
1424
What is biomass in the context of energy production?
Organic matter like wood, charcoal, dried animal waste, or brush burned to release heat, primarily for heating homes or cooking.
1425
Why is it difficult to determine the exact impact of low-level endocrine disruptor exposure in humans?
Human biology is complex and animal studies may not perfectly predict human outcomes.
1426
How can wind farms coexist with agricultural land use?
Turbines take up little ground space, allowing farming or grazing to continue underneath.
1427
How can aquaculture be made more sustainable?
Through selective breeding, use of plant-based feeds, closed-loop water systems, IMTA, strict biosecurity, and integrated waste management to reduce pollution and ecological risks.
1428
Why is biomass more commonly used in developing countries?
Its cheap, easily harvested, and often free, making it a common subsistence fuel for cooking and heating.
1429
Why might air pollution be worse on sunny days in large cities?
Sunlight drives photochemical reactions that form secondary pollutants like ozone, increasing smog levels.
1430
What is the Pacific Garbage Patch?
A region in the Pacific Ocean with a high concentration of floating plastic debris.
1431
Name two major oil spill disasters.
Deepwater Horizon (2010, Gulf of Mexico) and Exxon Valdez (1989, Alaska).
1432
Is wind energy a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable – wind is naturally occurring and cannot be depleted by usage.
1433
What is the function of fuel rods?
Fuel rods contain Uranium-235 and serve as the source of nuclear fuel for fission reactions.
1434
What are spent fuel rods, and why are they a problem?
Used uranium fuel rods that remain highly radioactive for millions of years and require secure, long-term storage.
1435
What are the natural sources of nitrogen oxides?
Forest fires, lightning, and soil microbes.
1436
How does construction contribute to noise pollution?
Through the operation of heavy machinery, demolition, and building activities.
1437
Give examples of biological pest control agents.
Ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars, and spiders for general insect pests.
1438
Why is it important to replant native vegetation after mining?
It stabilizes soil, prevents erosion, and helps restore local ecosystems.
1439
Why is coral bleaching dangerous to marine biodiversity?
Coral reefs support numerous species, and their loss impacts the entire ecosystem.
1440
Why are alternative fuels like electricity and hydrogen important?
They produce fewer or no harmful air pollutants compared to fossil fuels like gasoline or coal.
1441
What is monoculture, and how is it related to the Green Revolution?
Monoculture is the cultivation of a single crop over a large area, which became common during the Green Revolution and can lead to reduced soil fertility and increased vulnerability to pests.
1442
What is a hypoxic waterway?
A body of water with very low dissolved oxygen levels.
1443
What is one advantage of hydrogen fuel cells over batteries?
Fuel cells can be refueled quickly and have a higher energy density, making them suitable for long-distance transportation.
1444
What is an example of genetic uniformity leading to disaster in crops?
A genetically identical potato crop being wiped out by a single disease due to lack of variation.
1445
What is a CAFO?
A Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation, or feedlot, where animals are densely housed and fed grain (usually corn) to maximize meat production.
1446
What is Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)?
A soils ability to hold and exchange nutrient cations like Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, K⁺, and Na⁺.
1447
How does sediment runoff from nonpoint sources physically affect aquatic ecosystems?
Sediment increases turbidity, reduces sunlight penetration, harms aquatic plants, and disrupts aquatic habitats.
1448
Which regions in the U.S. use more nuclear, natural gas, and hydroelectric power?
The Northeast and West regions utilize more nuclear, natural gas, and hydroelectric power for electricity generation.
1449
What are two solutions for waterlogging?
Use drip irrigation to limit water and aerate soil to improve drainage and oxygen flow.
1450
Why are communities downwind of coal-burning power plants more affected by acid deposition?
Winds carry pollutants eastward, causing acid rain to fall far from the pollution source.
1451
What happens to species richness during succession?
It increases over time, may plateau, and can slightly decline as climax communities form.
1452
What is the function of tertiary consumers?
They consume secondary consumers and are often top predators.
1453
How does climate change challenge sustainability?
It disrupts agriculture, depletes water resources, increases storm intensity, and threatens biodiversity.
1454
What is plate tectonics?
A theory stating that Earth's lithosphere is divided into plates that move due to convection currents in the mantle.
1455
What kinds of plants grow in layers in tropical rainforests?
Canopy trees, epiphytes, vines
1456
Why is pollination considered a regulating service?
It’s essential for food production as insects and bees pollinate crops.
1457
Why is the theory of plate tectonics considered a unifying theory in Earth science?
It explains the distribution of earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain ranges, and ocean trenches.
1458
What are the characteristics of mountainous watersheds?
Steep slopes, high runoff, low infiltration, and high flood potential.
1459
Name two examples of substances that both bioaccumulate and biomagnify.
Mercury and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls).
1460
What is mineralization and what does it release into the soil?
Its another word for ammonification, producing ammonia from dead matter.
1461
What is a geographic range?
The area of the world in which a species is found.
1462
Why does proximity to the mainland increase species richness?
Because it allows easier and more frequent migration of species.
1463
How do K-selected species relate to survivorship curves?
They typically exhibit Type I or sometimes Type II patterns.
1464
What human health risks are associated with fecal coliform bacteria in water runoff?
Fecal coliform bacteria can contaminate drinking water, leading to gastrointestinal illnesses and infections.
1465
How does productivity change during succession?
It initially increases, peaks during shrub stages, and then declines in climax forests.
1466
What is the impact of development on population growth?
Development usually decreases population growth through education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
1467
Why is oxygen critical for aquatic organisms?
They use it for cellular respiration to generate energy.
1468
What are the four types of surface mining?
Open-pit mining, strip mining, mountaintop removal, and placer mining.
1469
How does deforestation contribute to air pollution?
Fewer trees mean less carbon dioxide is absorbed and more dust and smoke can remain in the atmosphere.
1470
Are all exotic species invasive?
No, only those that harm ecosystems or human activities.
1471
What is fracking, and how does it work?
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, involves injecting high-pressure fluid into subterranean rock formations to create fractures, allowing oil and gas to flow more freely to the production well.
1472
What are the three types of biodiversity, and how does genetic diversity enhance sustainability?
Genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity. Genetic diversity helps species adapt to environmental changes and resist disease.
1473
How is waste-to-energy different from simply burning trash?
Waste-to-energy systems capture the heat from burning waste to produce electricity.
1474
How is the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) typically estimated in relation to carrying capacity?
MSY is typically estimated at half the carrying capacity of a population (K/2), where the population growth rate is highest and can sustain the greatest yield without depleting the stock.
1475
What is the residence time of CO‚ÇÇ in the atmosphere?
Variable, around 100 years on average.
1476
What are some strategies to prevent or slow the development of pesticide resistance?
Strategies include rotating different types of pesticides to avoid prolonged exposure to a single chemical, implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to reduce reliance on pesticides, applying pesticides only when pest populations reach a damaging threshold, using natural predators or biological controls, and planting pest-resistant genetically modified crops such as BT corn.
1477
What is the IPM tactics pyramid?
A hierarchy of pest control methods: 1) Cultural, 2) Mechanical/Physical, 3) Biological, and 4) Chemical, with chemical control as a last resort.
1478
How do fertilizers in runoff affect aquatic ecosystems?
Fertilizers, rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, can fuel excessive algae growth (algal blooms). When these algae die, their decomposition consumes oxygen in the water, leading to hypoxic (low-oxygen) zones that can suffocate fish and other aquatic life—a process called eutrophication.
1479
How do mangroves benefit coastlines?
They protect against erosion and storm damage
1480
How does road salt runoff chemically impact freshwater ecosystems?
Road salt runoff raises salinity in freshwater ecosystems, stressing or killing freshwater species.
1481
What causes saltwater intrusion in urban coastal areas?
Excessive groundwater withdrawal and sea level rise reduce pressure in freshwater aquifers, allowing saltwater to seep in.
1482
Name two environmental issues besides ocean warming that affect coral reefs.
Ocean acidification and pollution.
1483
What material are most solar panels made of?
Most solar panels are made of silicon, a semiconductor that can release electrons when exposed to sunlight.
1484
What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is the process by which autotrophs use sunlight to make food
1485
What is the primary goal of sustainable agriculture?
To meet the growing demand for food and fiber while minimizing negative environmental impacts. This includes conserving soil, reducing pollution, preserving biodiversity, enhancing soil quality, minimizing use of nonrenewable resources, ensuring economic viability, and often requires more labor-intensive methods.
1486
What is the source of streams and rivers?
Underground springs or runoff from rain/melting snow
1487
What is the angle of incidence?
The angle at which sunlight strikes Earths surface; steeper angles deliver more energy.
1488
Is the ocean a carbon source, sink, or reservoir?
All three. It stores large amounts of carbon and acts as a sink when it absorbs more CO‚ÇÇ than it releases.
1489
How does soil act as a natural filter?
It removes pollutants as water percolates through, improving groundwater quality.
1490
What stage removes organic matter such as feces and urine from wastewater?
Secondary treatment, using aerobic bacteria to biologically decompose organic waste.
1491
How can dysentery outbreaks be prevented?
Improving sewage treatment, water filtration, and providing clean drinking water.
1492
Where are major wind energy resources located in the U.S., and why?
The Great Plains region has significant wind energy potential due to its consistent and strong wind patterns.
1493
How does limestone application enhance soil fertility and plant health?
Crushed limestone adds calcium carbonate, which neutralizes acidic soils. This improves nutrient availability, reduces harmful aluminum solubility, and adds calcium—a key nutrient—resulting in healthier plant growth and reduced leaching.
1494
What is NOEL and how is it determined?
The No-Observed-Effect Level is the highest concentration of a chemical causing no lethal or sublethal effects.
1495
What is the relationship between aquatic succession and eutrophication?
Over time, bodies of water naturally accumulate sediments and nutrients, leading to natural eutrophication.
1496
What is an unconfined aquifer?
A groundwater reservoir that is open to surface infiltration and lacks an overlying impermeable layer.
1497
How does temperature change in the stratosphere?
Temperature increases with altitude due to absorption of UV radiation by ozone.
1498
How could applying the precautionary principle to asbestos have saved lives?
Early action on asbestos dangers could have prevented tens of thousands of deaths and saved billions in cleanup costs.
1499
What type of growth is represented by an extreme pyramid shape?
Rapid population growth.
1500
How can deciduous trees help regulate home temperature through passive solar energy?
Deciduous trees provide shade in the summer by blocking sunlight with their leaves and allow sunlight through in the winter after shedding leaves, helping regulate indoor temperature.
1501
Describe how mold can become an indoor pollutant and suggest two ways to prevent it.
Mold thrives in moist, poorly ventilated areas. Prevent it by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers or fans.
1502
What is one consequence of rapid climate change for species?
It may push species beyond their tolerance range, leading to decline or extinction.
1503
Name three human activities that threaten mangroves.
Logging, aquaculture, and coastal development.
1504
How does sea level rise affect coral reefs?
Increased sedimentation and reduced sunlight reaching coral.
1505
How does El Niño affect upwelling?
It reduces or stops upwelling off the South American coast, limiting nutrients and reducing primary productivity and fish populations.
1506
What environmental impacts can result from thermal inversions?
Reduced photosynthesis in plants due to limited sunlight penetration, and decreased tourism and economic losses.
1507
Why is it critical to name specific pollutants rather than using the term pollution on APES FRQs?
AP exam graders award points for specific pollutants. The term pollution is too vague and usually does not earn credit.
1508
What effect does acidification have on marine predator-prey relationships?
Some prey become less able to detect predators under lower pH.
1509
What ecological threat do Burmese pythons pose?
They prey on native species and disrupt food webs.
1510
Why are ecosystems with more species more resilient?
They are more likely to recover from environmental disruptions.
1511
What kind of soils have high fertility?
Soils with high CEC and high base saturation.
1512
How can transporting firewood contribute to the spread of invasive species, and what are some ways regulations help prevent this?
Firewood can harbor invasive insects like the emerald ash borer. Many U.S. states have regulations that restrict or ban moving untreated firewood across regions to prevent spreading tree-killing pests. These laws aim to slow or stop the expansion of invasive species into new areas.
1513
How do generalist species fare better than specialists?
They can use a wide variety of resources and adapt to many different environments.
1514
What human health risk increases as a result of expanded vector ranges?
Greater exposure to vector-borne diseases in new regions.
1515
What is CITES?
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species; an international treaty to regulate trade of endangered species.
1516
What is a generalist species?
A species with a broad ecological niche and high adaptability, making it less prone to extinction and more likely to become invasive.
1517
What environmental issue is intensified by nitrate runoff?
Nitrate runoff intensifies eutrophication, which results in excessive algae growth in aquatic ecosystems. These algal blooms consume oxygen when they die and decompose, creating hypoxic conditions that can kill fish and other aquatic life.
1518
How does invasive species introduction affect commercial fishing?
Reduces fishery value by outcompeting native fish.
1519
What environmental model helps explain the decline of fish populations in heated waters?
Range of tolerance model — fish have specific temperature limits they can survive.
1520
What is the best way to detect carbon monoxide in homes?
By using a carbon monoxide detector.
1521
What is physical weathering?
Mechanical breakdown of rocks (e.g., freeze-thaw cycles, root wedging).
1522
What is passive solar energy?
Passive solar energy utilizes building design elements—such as orientation, materials, and architectural features—to collect, store, and distribute solar heat without mechanical or electrical systems.
1523
What is biotic potential?
The maximum reproductive rate of a population under ideal conditions.
1524
What are the characteristics of wetland watersheds?
High water availability, saturated soils, high runoff, and dominant evaporation.
1525
How does a hydrogen fuel cell work?
Hydrogen gas is split into protons and electrons at the anode; electrons flow through a circuit to create electricity while protons pass through the membrane to combine with oxygen at the cathode, forming water.
1526
What is eutrophication?
The nutrient enrichment of water bodies leading to excessive plant growth and oxygen depletion.
1527
Why is aquaculture more land-efficient than traditional meat production?
It doesn’t require grazing or cropland, making it suitable for regions with limited arable land. It also produces more protein per unit of area than beef or pork.
1528
What is the ecological benefit of selectively removing diseased trees?
Selectively removing diseased trees helps protect the health of the entire forest. When a tree becomes infected by a disease or pests, it can act as a host. By cutting down only the infected trees, we remove that source of infection before it spreads to healthy ones.
1529
What is the equation for GPP?
GPP = NPP + R
1530
How do autotrophs and heterotrophs obtain carbon?
Autotrophs absorb CO‚ÇÇ from air or water; heterotrophs consume other organisms to obtain organic carbon.
1531
What is the main source of global electricity generation?
Coal.
1532
How do catalytic converters reduce nitrogen oxides (NO and NO‚ÇÇ) from vehicle exhaust?
They convert nitrogen oxides into nitrogen gas and oxygen: 2NO ‚Üí N‚ÇÇ + O‚ÇÇ; 2NO‚ÇÇ ‚Üí N‚ÇÇ + 2O‚ÇÇ.
1533
What U.S. law helped reduce acid deposition?
The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990.
1534
What is an ecological pyramid?
A representation of energy flow, biomass, or number of organisms at each trophic level in an ecosystem
1535
What is ecological succession?
Natural, gradual changes in the types of species in an area, where one plant community is replaced by another over time.
1536
Why is hydrogen production via electrolysis not always renewable?
If the electricity used for electrolysis comes from fossil fuels, then the process indirectly contributes to CO‚ÇÇ emissions.
1537
What are some natural causes of climate variation?
Milankovitch cycles, changes in Earths orbit, tilt, precession, volcanic activity, and solar output.
1538
Identify a pollutant commonly found in urban runoff and describe one environmental impact it can cause.
Motor oil reduces oxygen and harms aquatic life; nitrates cause eutrophication; road salts increase water salinity, stressing freshwater organisms; sediment blocks sunlight and disrupts habitats.
1539
When and where did the Fukushima disaster occur?
In 2011 in Japan, after an earthquake and tsunami disabled cooling systems, causing a full meltdown and radiation release.
1540
What is the key difference between a hydrogen fuel cell and electrolysis?
A hydrogen fuel cell generates electricity from hydrogen and oxygen, while electrolysis uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
1541
What is the primary reason phosphorus is not recycled well in modern agriculture?
Modern waste systems separate human and animal waste from cropland, breaking the natural cycle.
1542
What is an invasive species?
A non-native species that can live and sometimes thrive outside its normal habitat, often threatening native species.
1543
How do riparian buffers protect water bodies near wetlands?
Vegetation along riverbanks filters runoff and traps pollutants before reaching wetlands.
1544
What is agroforestry and how does it relate to sustainable forestry?
Agroforestry is a land-use method that combines agriculture and forestry by growing trees alongside crops or livestock. This approach improves biodiversity, prevents soil erosion, and enhances soil fertility. It allows land to produce both food and wood without degrading the environment.
1545
What is Zika virus most dangerous for?
Causing birth defects like microcephaly and brain damage when pregnant women are infected.
1546
Name major factors that increase infectious disease rates in developing countries.
Lack of clean water, poor sanitation, limited healthcare, crowded living conditions, and tropical climates.
1547
What is fluidized bed combustion?
A method where air is blown into coal and limestone to create a bubbling mixture that burns cleaner and reduces SO‚ÇÇ and NOx emissions.
1548
Why are species that feed at high trophic levels more vulnerable to endangerment?
They depend on many species below them and accumulate toxins through biomagnification.
1549
What simple plants follow lichens in primary succession?
Mosses and ferns.
1550
What are major threats to streams and rivers?
Excess nutrients from fertilizer/runoff and pollutants
1551
What is biomagnification?
The increasing concentration of substances like POPs in the tissues of organisms at each successive level in a food chain.
1552
What are the physical properties of soil?
Texture (proportions of sand, silt, clay), structure, porosity, and permeability.
1553
What factors allow colonization on islands?
Niche openings, lack of competition, unutilized resources, and accessibility.
1554
What environmental concerns are linked to fracking?
Groundwater contamination, surface water depletion, methane leaks, induced seismic activity from wastewater injection.
1555
How does sedimentation harm visual predators?
Murky water reduces visibility, making hunting harder for species like trout, herons, and octopuses.
1556
Why is oxygen important in composting?
Aerobic decomposition (with oxygen) prevents methane production and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
1557
How can humans be affected by biomagnification?
By consuming seafood containing high levels of methylmercury, which can affect the nervous, reproductive, and circulatory systems.
1558
Why is genetic diversity important for species survival?
It increases the chance that some individuals can survive environmental changes.
1559
Why is holding water longer before discharge helpful for reducing thermal pollution?
It allows water to cool down naturally, minimizing thermal shock to ecosystems.
1560
What improvements did the Lautenberg Act bring to chemical safety?
It enhanced EPAs authority to evaluate and regulate chemicals based on health risks, including mandatory safety reviews.
1561
What allows some salmon to survive outside the basic range of temperature tolerance?
Genetic biodiversity allows adaptations that extend the range for some individuals.
1562
What are biological consequences of eutrophication caused by nutrient pollution?
Eutrophication leads to algal blooms, decreased oxygen levels (hypoxia), fish kills, and loss of aquatic biodiversity.
1563
How can hydroelectric dams interfere with fish populations?
They block migratory routes, preventing species like salmon from reaching spawning grounds.
1564
How does Earths rotation speed change with latitude?
It is fastest at the equator and slows toward the poles, causing varying deflection due to the Coriolis effect.
1565
How does overfishing impact wetlands?
It disrupts food webs, causing ecosystem instability.
1566
What is an emergent infectious disease? Give examples.
A newly common or newly described disease. Examples: COVID-19, Ebola, Zika virus, West Nile Virus.
1567
What are biogeochemical cycles?
Natural pathways by which essential elements like carbon move through Earths spheres via biological, geological, and chemical processes.
1568
What factors contribute to higher TFR?
Younger age at first birth, lower education, poverty, high infant mortality, limited healthcare and contraception access.
1569
What does an indicator species reveal about an ecosystem?
Indicator species reflect specific environmental conditions and are used to assess the health or quality of an ecosystem, such as pollution levels or habitat integrity.
1570
Why is studying chronic toxicity important?
Chronic exposure to pollutants can lead to long-term issues like cancer or infertility that arent visible in short-term studies.
1571
What legislation mandated double-hulled tankers in the U.S.?
The Oil Pollution Act of 1990.
1572
How do synthetic fertilizers compare to organic fertilizers?
Synthetic fertilizers increase yield and profitability by adding key nutrients, but contribute to eutrophication from nutrient runoff and require fossil fuels, releasing CO‚ÇÇ.
1573
What does biotic mean?
Biotic refers to all living components in an ecosystem like plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria Has cells
1574
What does the Paris Climate Agreement aim to limit?
Global warming to less than 2°C above preindustrial levels.
1575
How does photochemical smog affect the environment?
It damages plant stomata, inhibits photosynthesis, reduces crop yields, and harms ecosystems.
1576
How can environmental data (e.g., graphs showing CO‚ÇÇ levels or grain production) help assess sustainability?
Environmental data can reveal trends, such as rising CO‚ÇÇ or declining food production, that signal whether current practices are sustainable.
1577
What geological features are ideal for geothermal energy production?
Areas near tectonic plate boundaries with volcanic activity, such as the Ring of Fire, are ideal for geothermal energy due to the presence of accessible heat sources.
1578
What management method involves banning untreated wood shipments?
Regulatory prevention to stop insect invasions.
1579
What is a prospective study?
A study tracking individuals future exposures to pollutants and their resulting health.
1580
What strategies can reduce acid rain?
Using renewable energy, public transit, raising vehicle efficiency standards, and using scrubbers on smokestacks.
1581
How does ocean acidification affect coral reef recovery after bleaching events?
It slows recovery because corals have difficulty forming new skeletons.
1582
What is mutualism?
A symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit
1583
How does eutrophication lead to hypoxia in aquatic ecosystems?
Nutrient overloading causes algal blooms; when algae die, decomposition uses up dissolved oxygen, leading to hypoxia (low oxygen conditions) that can kill aquatic life.
1584
What feedback loop is created by thawing permafrost?
More greenhouse gases are released, leading to further warming.
1585
What is Crude Growth Rate?
Net number added per 1,000 individuals per year (birth rate minus death rate).
1586
Why might dispersants be controversial in oil spill cleanup?
They dilute visible oil but can spread toxins deeper into the ecosystem and harm bottom-dwelling species.
1587
How many ozone molecules can one chlorine atom destroy?
Up to 100,000 ozone molecules before being neutralized.
1588
Identify one health impact of lead and explain why children are especially vulnerable.
Lead affects brain development; children are more vulnerable due to their smaller size and developing nervous systems.
1589
Which three greenhouse gases are primarily increasing in concentration?
Carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ), methane (CH‚ÇÑ), and nitrous oxide (N‚ÇÇO).
1590
What are examples of non-biological (abiotic) nitrogen fixation processes?
Lightning and combustion convert nitrogen gas into compounds usable by plants.
1591
What are some examples of K-selected species?
Most mammals and birds.
1592
What is the noise level of a wind turbine, and how does it compare to household appliances?
Wind turbines produce about 80dB of noise up close, similar to a vacuum cleaner. At a distance of 300 meters, the noise level drops to around 40dB, comparable to a refrigerator.
1593
What is the 10% rule and how does it relate to biomagnification?
Organisms at higher trophic levels eat more biomass to gain enough energy, leading to higher pollutant accumulation.
1594
What less harmful gases are produced after exhaust passes through a catalytic converter?
Nitrogen gas (N‚ÇÇ), carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ), and water vapor (H‚ÇÇO).
1595
What is an ecological disruption?
An event that causes changes in population size, biodiversity, and the physical structure of ecosystems, potentially altering their functioning.
1596
What are indicator species?
Species that give early warning signs of environmental damage or danger.
1597
How do you calculate the number of half-lives elapsed?
Number of Half-Lives = Total Time Elapsed / Half-Life Duration.
1598
What are some examples of non-fish organisms that can be farmed in aquaculture?
Seaweed, mussels, clams, oysters, and crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, all of which serve dietary, commercial, and ecological purposes.
1599
What environmental drawback is associated with the large surface area of reservoirs?
Increased evaporation and potential methane emissions from anaerobic decomposition.
1600
What is the estimated lifespan of global coal reserves at current consumption rates?
Estimates suggest that coal reserves could last between 133 and 435 years, depending on consumption rates and technological developments.
1601
How does deforestation affect nitrogen uptake and soil quality?
Fewer trees means less nitrogen is absorbed and more is lost from soil.
1602
What is the Marine Mammal Protection Act?
A U.S. law that bans the killing or harassment of marine mammals.
1603
What was the Stockholm Convention, and why was it important?
A 2001 agreement where 127 nations agreed to ban, phase out, or restrict 12 harmful chemicals known as the dirty dozen.
1604
What is the primary environmental benefit of hydroelectric power?
It generates electricity without emitting air pollutants or greenhouse gases during operation.
1605
Why are wildfires common in shrubland areas during the summer?
Hot, dry conditions
1606
How does contour plowing reduce soil erosion?
By plowing parallel to the land’s natural contours, mini terraces are formed which slow water runoff and trap topsoil. This reduces erosion on slopes and helps retain nutrients and moisture.
1607
What was Alfred Wegener’s contribution to Earth science?
He proposed the idea of continental drift, later developed into the theory of plate tectonics.
1608
What is resource partitioning?
When species divide resources to reduce direct competition and coexist
1609
Is a forest a carbon source, sink, or reservoir?
Typically a sink if photosynthesis exceeds respiration, but can be a source when deforested or burned.
1610
Why are the soils in temperate rainforests typically low in nutrients?
Rain leaches nutrients
1611
What is a limiting factor in ecology?
An environmental factor most often in short supply that regulates population growth.
1612
Why don’t biomass and hydrogen have mapped global distributions?
Biomass and hydrogen can be produced in various locations worldwide, depending on the availability of organic materials and production facilities, making their distribution more flexible and less geographically constrained.
1613
What is the Endangered Species Act?
A U.S. law that protects species at risk of extinction and their habitats.
1614
What is speciation?
Speciation is the process by which new species arise, typically through reproductive isolation and genetic divergence.
1615
Is a solar oven an example of passive or active solar energy?
Passive; it uses direct sunlight without mechanical devices to cook food.
1616
What are the characteristics of coastal watersheds?
High water tables, flooding risks, and saltwater intrusion vulnerability.
1617
What are oligotrophic waterways?
Waterways low in nutrients, high in dissolved oxygen, and with stable algae populations.
1618
Why is proper e-waste management important?
E-waste contains hazardous heavy metals like lead and mercury that can leach into groundwater.
1619
What is an oil slick?
A floating layer of oil on the water surface; reduces sunlight penetration and affects marine organisms.
1620
How effective has the Montreal Protocol been?
Very effective; CFC concentrations have declined, and ozone depletion is slowly reversing.
1621
Why is uranium considered a nonrenewable energy source?
Uranium exists in limited amounts and cannot be regenerated, making it nonrenewable.
1622
What are the two main methods used to extract petroleum (crude oil)?
Onshore and offshore drilling. Offshore drilling occurs under the ocean floor and involves complex platforms and deeper wells.
1623
What is global warming potential (GWP)?
A measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere over 100 years relative to CO‚ÇÇ.
1624
What are the two main factors affecting species richness on islands?
The rate of immigration and the rate of extinction.
1625
Define climate in terms of atmospheric science.
The average weather conditions of a region over a long period, typically 30 years or more.
1626
How does synthetic fertilizer use lead to eutrophication?
Excess nitrates runoff into water bodies, causing algal blooms that block sunlight, reduce oxygen, and lead to fish deaths.
1627
What is the U.S. Endangered Species Act and how does it help prevent overfishing?
The U.S. Endangered Species Act protects species that are at risk of extinction and their habitats. It prevents activities, including overfishing, that could harm listed marine species and requires recovery plans.
1628
How do you convert kilowatts to megawatts?
1 megawatt (MW) = 1,000 kilowatts (kW).
1629
What is the GWP of carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ)?
1 (used as the reference point).
1630
What are the benefits and drawbacks of mechanization in agriculture?
Benefits: Increased yields and profits through efficient planting and harvesting. Drawbacks: Increases fossil fuel use, greenhouse gas emissions, compacts soil (reducing water retention), and makes topsoil prone to erosion.
1631
What is meant by climate refugees?
People who are forced to leave their homes due to climate change impacts like rising sea levels or extreme weather.
1632
Why does the northern U.S. use more energy in winter?
The northern U.S. experiences colder winters, leading to increased energy consumption for heating purposes.
1633
What is the impact of pesticides in stormwater runoff?
Pesticides used in landscaping and agriculture can wash into local water bodies. These chemicals are often toxic to aquatic organisms, harming or killing non-target species such as insects, amphibians, and even fish, leading to ecosystem imbalances and reduced biodiversity.
1634
What is the hydrologic (water) cycle?
The continuous movement of water within the Earth and atmosphere through processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, runoff, and transpiration.
1635
What is acid deposition?
Acid deposition is the falling of acids or acid-forming compounds from the atmosphere to Earths surface, including acid rain, snow, fog, or dry particles.
1636
What are small-scale energy conservation methods in homes?
Adjusting thermostats, using programmable thermostats, improving insulation, using energy-efficient appliances, conserving water, and using native plants.
1637
What does a carbon footprint measure?
The total amount of CO‚ÇÇ emissions produced directly or indirectly by an individuals or groups activities, measured in tons of CO‚ÇÇ per year.
1638
What are common health risks from indoor biomass burning?
It can cause respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, COPD, and eye irritation due to trapped air pollutants.
1639
What environmental impacts result from increased UV exposure?
DNA damage, skin cancer, cataracts, weakened immune systems, and disruption of marine ecosystems (e.g., phytoplankton decline).
1640
How do mountain ranges affect the local climate?
They cause orographic lifting and rain shadow effects, creating wet and dry areas.
1641
How does burning fossil fuels contribute to nitrous oxide emissions?
Combustion of fossil fuels releases nitrous oxide as a byproduct of high-temperature reactions between nitrogen and oxygen in the air.
1642
How does aquaculture contribute to global food security?
It provides a stable source of protein and micronutrients, especially in developing nations where fish are a dietary staple. As wild stocks dwindle, aquaculture helps meet demand without depleting ecosystems.
1643
What happens as a population approaches carrying capacity?
Growth rate decreases, mortality increases, and fecundity decreases due to resource scarcity.
1644
What is Maximum Sustainable Yield and why is it important?
Maximum Sustainable Yield is the largest amount of fish that can be harvested without depleting the population, ensuring it can replenish over time. It helps prevent overfishing while supporting fishery production.
1645
How do low-albedo surfaces affect climate?
They absorb more sunlight, warming the surface.
1646
What are ecological relationships often represented as?
Food chains or food webs.
1647
What is dust composed of?
Dead skin cells, pollen, fibers, soil particles, and other microscopic debris.
1648
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? Tourists frequently visit a coral reef, causing physical damage to the corals and disrupting marine life.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The coral reef is a shared resource, and unregulated use leads to its degradation.
1649
How are periodic, episodic, and random natural events defined?
Periodic = regular frequency (e.g., seasons); episodic = irregular but predictable (e.g., droughts); random = unpredictable (e.g., volcanic eruptions).
1650
What are common indoor sources of particulate matter?
Smoking, cooking, fireplaces, and unvented heaters.
1651
How does fish density in aquaculture lead to problems?
High densities increase the risk of disease outbreaks, which can rapidly spread within farms and to nearby wild populations, often necessitating antibiotic use.
1652
How can competition for resources lead to endangerment?
It can reduce access to territory, food, mates, and habitats, stressing populations.
1653
Why is genetic diversity important for a species?
Genetic diversity helps populations adapt to environmental changes and reduces the risk of extinction.
1654
Is the atmosphere a carbon reservoir?
Yes, it stores carbon in the form of CO‚ÇÇ and methane.
1655
How does methylmercury differ from elemental mercury (Hg)?
Methylmercury is more toxic and bioavailable, produced when bacteria transform elemental mercury.
1656
What is population size influenced by?
Immigration + births - emigration - deaths.
1657
What are examples of combustion-based indoor pollutants?
CO, NOx, SO‚ÇÇ, particulate matter, and tobacco smoke.
1658
What role do wetlands play in water purification?
Wetlands filter pollutants from water, improving its quality.
1659
What is e-waste?
Waste produced from discarded electronic devices like phones, computers, and tablets.
1660
When is grit (small inorganic particles like sand) removed during sewage treatment?
During primary treatment, specifically in the grit chamber.
1661
Why are seniors considered significant in U.S. age structure?
Seniors are the fastest-growing age group in the United States.
1662
How many homes can an average wind turbine power?
An average wind turbine that came online in 2020 generates enough electricity to power over 940 average U.S. homes.
1663
What is landfill gas primarily composed of?
Methane.
1664
What is a keystone species?
A species with a disproportionately large effect on its ecosystem relative to its abundance.
1665
Why does exceeding an organisms range of tolerance often cause death?
Extreme conditions disrupt homeostasis, causing issues like enzyme malfunction, hormonal disruption, suffocation, or nervous system failure.
1666
What two ways can coal ash release heavy metals into ecosystems?
Wind dispersal of fly ash and leaching from bottom ash stored in ponds.
1667
How does tilling contribute to water pollution?
Tilling increases sediment runoff into water bodies, raising turbidity and harming aquatic life by blocking sunlight and clogging fish gills.
1668
Why are biofuels like ethanol considered more suitable for transportation than raw biomass?
Biofuels are liquid and compatible with existing engines and fuel infrastructure, unlike raw biomass which is not suitable for combustion engines.
1669
How does climate change impact atmospheric circulation?
Weakens and shifts Hadley Cells and destabilizes the jet stream.
1670
What conditions during composting increase nitrous oxide emissions?
Poor aeration, excessive moisture, and high amounts of nitrogen-rich material.
1671
What is the First Green Revolution primarily associated with?
It is associated with the transformation of agriculture in developing countries like India and Mexico during the 1940s to 1960s.
1672
What is the troposphere?
The lowest layer of the atmosphere where weather occurs; it extends up to ~16 km (10 mi) and contains the highest concentration of atmospheric gases.
1673
What types of animals appear later in primary succession?
Insects, small birds, and mammals.
1674
How does ocean acidification affect marine biodiversity?
It can shift species distributions and decrease biodiversity.
1675
What does the species-area curve show?
It shows that the larger the geographic area, the greater the number of species.
1676
Which survivorship curve pattern lies between Type I and III?
Type II.
1677
What is sustainable land use?
Land-use strategies that balance human needs with environmental protection, like smart urban planning.
1678
What is the main byproduct of hydrogen fuel cells?
The main byproduct is water (H‚ÇÇO), making hydrogen fuel cells a clean energy source.
1679
What are negative externalities?
Costs imposed on a third party who did not choose to incur that cost, such as health problems from factory emissions or water contamination from industrial runoff.
1680
What are two characteristics of forests affected by long-term fire suppression?
Increased buildup of dry, dead biomass and heightened susceptibility to severe wildfires.
1681
What is the disadvantage of using only synthetic fertilizers over time?
They degrade soil quality by not replenishing organic matter, leading to lower productivity.
1682
How does meat production impact energy use?
Energy is used for growing and transporting feed, maintaining animal housing, and processing meat, making it energy-intensive.
1683
Why does the southern U.S. use more energy in summer?
The southern U.S. has hot and humid summers, resulting in higher energy use for air conditioning.
1684
How does proximity to large bodies of water affect climate?
Water has a high specific heat, moderating temperature. Coastal areas have smaller temperature ranges than inland areas.
1685
How do POPs affect human endocrine systems?
They can disrupt hormonal functions, leading to reproductive and developmental issues.
1686
Why is phosphorus considered a limiting nutrient in agriculture?
Because natural phosphorus release from rocks is a very slow process.
1687
Give an example of point source pollution involving agriculture.
Animal waste runoff from a CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation), which releases pollutants like ammonia and fecal coliform bacteria into nearby water bodies.
1688
What is carrying capacity (K)?
The maximum number of individuals an ecosystem can support based on limiting resources like food, water, and space.
1689
How does livestock contribute to greenhouse gas emissions?
Their digestive processes produce methane.
1690
What is a catalytic converter?
A device in vehicles that converts pollutants like CO, NOx, and hydrocarbons into less harmful gases.
1691
How can asbestos exposure lead to cancer?
Inhaled asbestos fibers cause inflammation and scarring, leading to mesothelioma.
1692
What events can lead to secondary succession?
Forest fires, hurricanes, or abandoned farm fields where vegetation is removed but soil remains.
1693
How is electricity generated in a nuclear power plant?
Nuclear fission generates heat, which turns water into steam. The steam spins a turbine, which powers a generator that produces electricity.
1694
What role does government regulation play in addressing the Tragedy of the Commons?
Governments can implement laws, quotas, licenses, and protected areas to control access and prevent overuse of shared resources.
1695
What AP® exam tip is important regarding ecological tolerance?
Use the phrase range of ecological tolerance to explain species responses to environmental changes, rather than generic statements.
1696
Name the five principal greenhouse gases.
Carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ), methane (CH‚ÇÑ), water vapor (H‚ÇÇO), nitrous oxide (N‚ÇÇO), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
1697
What were HCFCs, and why were they introduced?
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons were used as transitional substitutes for CFCs; less damaging to ozone but still potent greenhouse gases.
1698
What is cogeneration and how does it reduce energy waste?
A system where waste heat from electricity generation is used for heating buildings or water, boosting overall efficiency to up to 90%.
1699
How does soil form in primary succession?
Lichens and weather break down rock; dead lichens add organic matter, forming soil.
1700
What determines how environmentally friendly hydrogen fuel cells are?
The sustainability of the hydrogen production method—electrolysis using renewables is clean; steam reforming from natural gas emits CO₂.
1701
Why is burning landfill gas beneficial?
It reduces landfill volume and generates electricity, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
1702
What is a potential impact on Europe if thermohaline circulation weakens?
Europe could experience significantly colder temperatures.
1703
Why are specialist species more prone to extinction?
They have specific food needs and limited adaptability to environmental changes.
1704
What is an oil plume?
A column of rising oil from an underwater spill source, such as from a ruptured wellhead.
1705
What is qualitative risk assessment?
Subjective categorization of risk without numerical calculations.
1706
What does a drop from pH 8.2 to 8.1 represent in acidity?
About a 30% increase in acidity.
1707
What is radioactivity?
Radioactivity is the energy released from the decay of an unstable atomic nucleus, often in the form of radiation.
1708
What makes VOCs especially problematic indoors?
They vaporize easily and can reach high concentrations in poorly ventilated spaces.
1709
How can switching from a coal plant to wind energy benefit a community environmentally?
Reduces emissions of CO‚ÇÇ, NO‚Çì, SO‚Çì, and particulate matter, improving air quality and reducing climate impact.
1710
How can reducing fossil fuel combustion help prevent eutrophication?
It reduces atmospheric nitrogen deposition into waterways, lowering nutrient pollution.
1711
Which two primary pollutants are mainly responsible for acid rain?
Sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ) and nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì).
1712
What is the nitrogen cycle and how does it function within Earths systems?
It describes how nitrogen moves between the atmosphere, soil, and living things, making it available for use by organisms.
1713
How do changes in ocean currents affect global climates?
They disrupt heat distribution, affecting weather patterns worldwide.
1714
What type of radiation is primarily emitted by Earth?
Infrared radiation.
1715
What is the equation for exponential growth?
Nt = N0 * e^(rt), where N0 = initial population, r = growth rate, t = time, and e = 2.7.
1716
How long can marine life recovery take after a major oil spill?
3–5 years in warm, fast waters; decades in cold, still waters.
1717
What are examples of natural disruptions to ecosystems?
Hurricanes, wildfires, floods, droughts, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis.
1718
What are examples of overexploitation, and how does each impact biodiversity?
Dodo bird (overhunted to extinction), Passenger pigeon (overharvested, leading to extinction), American bison (almost exterminated by hunting), Atlantic cod (population collapse due to overfishing), Elephants (poached for ivory, reducing populations).
1719
What heavy metals discussed in Topic 8.3 act as endocrine disruptors and are released through coal combustion?
Mercury, arsenic, and lead.
1720
What is crop rotation and how does it help control pests?
Rotating crops disrupts pest breeding cycles, making it harder for them to establish in the field.
1721
What is thermal mass in a home?
Thermal mass refers to materials like concrete, brick, or stone that absorb heat during the day and release it at night, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.
1722
Give an example of a cultural service generating economic value.
Tourists paying park entrance fees or fishermen purchasing fishing licenses.
1723
Why does the equator have consistent solar radiation year-round?
It always receives sunlight at a high angle due to Earths shape.
1724
Give an example of adaptive radiation on islands.
The Gal√°pagos Finches, which evolved different beaks to utilize various food sources.
1725
What happens to thermohaline circulation due to climate change?
It slows down because cold freshwater from melting ice prevents sinking of salty, dense water.
1726
Provide an example of a chemical and its LD50 for mice.
Arsenic, with an LD50 of 13 mg/kg body mass.
1727
Why is exponential human population growth unsustainable?
It increases resource demand beyond the Earths capacity to regenerate them.
1728
How is MERS transmitted?
From camels to humans, then human-to-human via close contact.
1729
What are the main methods used to extract natural gas?
Traditional vertical drilling and hydraulic fracturing (fracking), which involves injecting fluid to fracture rock and release trapped gas.
1730
What are some social impacts of the Green Revolution?
It improved food security in some regions but also led to increased economic disparities and displacement of small-scale farmers.
1731
What is the relationship between CO‚ÇÇ levels and historic temperatures?
Higher CO‚ÇÇ levels have historically been correlated with warmer global temperatures.
1732
Besides aging infrastructure, how else can lead enter the environment?
Released into the air as particulate matter from coal combustion.
1733
Why can oceans absorb so much heat?
Water has a high specific heat capacity.
1734
What does the word hypoxia mean?
Hypo means low, and ox refers to oxygen — hypoxia is a condition of low oxygen.
1735
How does using reformulated gasoline improve air quality?
Reformulated gasoline contains less sulfur and fewer VOCs, reducing smog-forming emissions and improving urban air quality.
1736
What is genotype vs. phenotype?
Genotype is an organisms genetic makeup, while phenotype is the observable expression of that genotype.
1737
Describe one common route by which endocrine disruptors from human medications enter aquatic ecosystems.
Through human waste excretion into sewage systems or flushing of unused medications.
1738
What determines whether a coral reef recovers after bleaching?
The return of symbiotic algae and improved environmental conditions.
1739
What are the main factors contributing to an individuals ecological footprint?
Food production, raw materials use, housing, electricity production, and waste disposal.
1740
What major human behavior can limit the introduction of pharmaceutical endocrine disruptors into the environment?
Proper disposal of unused medications through medical waste collection facilities.
1741
A forest absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Regulating service (climate regulation).
1742
What organism produces most oceanic oxygen?
Marine algae, particularly phytoplankton
1743
When was the Stockholm Convention adopted and when did it enter into force?
Adopted in 2001 and entered into force in 2004.
1744
Why is groundwater recycling necessary for geothermal sustainability?
Without reinjection, aquifers can deplete, and the system becomes unsustainable.
1745
What is a dead zone?
An area in water where dissolved oxygen is so low that it cannot support most aquatic life, often caused by decomposing algal blooms.
1746
What is DDT and why is it significant?
DDT is a pesticide known for its environmental persistence and role in causing eggshell thinning in birds.
1747
What is the major limitation of wind energy in replacing fossil fuels?
It suffers from intermittency and cannot provide consistent base-load power like fossil fuels or nuclear energy.
1748
How does topography impact soil formation?
Steep slopes encourage erosion, while flat areas promote accumulation of material and deeper soils.
1749
What is the effect of impervious surfaces like concrete and roads on the water cycle?
They reduce infiltration and increase surface runoff, which can lead to flooding and erosion.
1750
How does biomass burning compare to fossil fuels in terms of carbon emissions?
Biomass releases modern carbon (recently sequestered), while fossil fuels release fossil carbon (stored for millions of years).
1751
What do carnivores eat?
Carnivores eat other animals
1752
Where is most surface freshwater located?
In glaciers and ice caps.
1753
Why do downstream wetlands suffer from dam construction?
They are deprived of nutrient-rich sediments that support plant growth and biodiversity.
1754
What is the Keeling Curve?
A graph showing the ongoing change in atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ concentrations based on continuous measurements taken at Mauna Loa Observatory.
1755
What region was the kudzu vine originally from?
Japan and Southeast China.
1756
How does a variable pricing model help manage electricity use?
By charging more during peak hours and less during low usage, it incentivizes reduced energy consumption.
1757
What are some examples of indoor air pollutants?
Carbon monoxide from stoves, radon gas, mold, and tobacco smoke.
1758
Why are tropical regions warmer?
They receive more direct sunlight year-round and have low-albedo surfaces that absorb energy.
1759
What is a positive feedback loop in climate systems?
A process where an initial change causes effects that further amplify that change, such as thawing permafrost releasing methane and accelerating warming.
1760
What is overfishing and why is it a concern?
Overfishing is harvesting fish faster than they can naturally reproduce. It leads to population decline, ecosystem imbalance, and economic loss in communities relying on fishing.
1761
What is the purpose of a landfill’s bottom liner?
To prevent pollutants from leaking into groundwater and soil.
1762
What additional benefits do rain gardens provide?
Beyond runoff control, rain gardens improve local biodiversity by supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies, beautify neighborhoods, sequester carbon dioxide, and create green space that helps cool urban areas and enhance community well-being.
1763
How do POPs affect ecosystems?
They can cause reproductive, developmental, behavioral, neurological, and immunological adverse effects in wildlife.
1764
How might planting trees help reduce urban air pollution?
Trees absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, and their leaves can trap particulate matter.
1765
What are some benefits of hydroelectric reservoirs beyond electricity?
Recreation, tourism, flood control, and increased property values.
1766
How do fuel economy improvements help with energy conservation?
Vehicles use less gasoline per mile, reducing overall fossil fuel consumption and emissions.
1767
What is the purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor?
Control rods absorb excess neutrons to regulate the speed of the chain reaction and prevent a meltdown.
1768
What is a keystone species?
A species with a disproportionately large impact on its ecosystem.
1769
What is vapor recovery?
A system at gas stations that captures gasoline vapors during refueling to prevent VOC release.
1770
Why are south-facing windows important in passive solar home design?
South-facing windows maximize sunlight exposure in the winter and can be shaded in summer, optimizing solar heat gain when needed.
1771
How does eutrophication create a positive feedback loop?
Dead organisms lead to more decomposition, using more oxygen, causing more death, and further decreasing oxygen levels.
1772
What is a carbon source?
A process or activity that emits more carbon than it absorbs, e.g., combustion or respiration.
1773
Give an example of a substance that bioaccumulates and biomagnifies.
Methylmercury or DDT.
1774
How do wastewater treatment plants contribute to eutrophication?
They may not fully remove nutrients like ammonia and phosphates, especially during heavy rain events leading to raw sewage overflow.
1775
How does public perception of risk often differ from actual risk?
People often fear rare, catastrophic events more than common everyday dangers.
1776
What is thermal expansion in the context of climate change?
The increase in volume of ocean water as it warms, contributing to rising sea levels.
1777
How does photochemical smog affect human health?
It worsens asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and can cause eye irritation and premature death.
1778
Why don’t biomass and hydrogen have mapped global distributions?
Biomass and hydrogen can be produced in various locations worldwide, depending on the availability of organic materials and production facilities, making their distribution more flexible and less geographically constrained.
1779
What is calcification?
The process where marine organisms use calcium and carbonate ions to build their shells and skeletons.
1780
Why is phosphorus limited in aquatic systems?
It precipitates out of solution and settles in sediments, making it a limiting nutrient in water bodies.
1781
How is the phosphorus cycle different from the nitrogen and carbon cycles?
Phosphorus does not enter the atmosphere as a gas and is usually found as phosphate (PO4³⁻).
1782
What factors decrease population growth?
High death rates, increased education and affluence, delayed childbirth and marriage.
1783
Describe a method to reduce exposure to VOCs in new homes.
Use low-VOC paints and materials, increase ventilation, and allow off-gassing before occupancy.
1784
How is human migration expected to change due to climate change?
Increased numbers of climate refugees relocating due to rising seas and natural disasters.
1785
What regions in the U.S. use more coal for electricity?
The Midwest and Southeast regions rely more heavily on coal for electricity generation.
1786
What happened at Three Mile Island?
In 1979, a valve malfunction caused a partial meltdown in Pennsylvania. Radiation was released, but no deaths occurred.
1787
Why is understanding ecological tolerance important in conservation?
It helps predict how species will respond to environmental changes and where they might survive.
1788
How do denitrifying bacteria return nitrogen to the atmosphere?
They change nitrates into nitrogen gas, releasing it back into the air.
1789
How does parental care differ between r-selected and K-selected species?
K-selected species have high parental care, while r-selected species have little to none.
1790
What is ocean acidification and how is it connected to the carbon cycle?
Increased CO‚ÇÇ dissolves in oceans, forming carbonic acid, lowering pH, and harming marine organisms.
1791
Where are coral reefs found?
Warm, shallow waters beyond shorelines
1792
Why are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like pharmaceuticals difficult to remove in sewage treatment?
Because they are resistant to microbial decomposition and standard filtration methods.
1793
What is adaptive radiation, and how does it relate to islands?
It’s the rapid evolution of one species into several new species to utilize different resources, often seen on islands.
1794
How does magma contribute to geothermal energy?
Convection currents bring magma near Earths crust, heating groundwater.
1795
What is natural selection?
Natural selection is evolution driven by environmental pressures determining survival and reproduction.
1796
What does the Richter scale measure?
The magnitude of ground motion during an earthquake on a logarithmic scale.
1797
What are the main types of passive solar heating systems?
The main types include direct gain (sunlight enters living spaces), indirect gain (e.g., Trombe walls), and isolated gain (e.g., sunspaces or solariums).
1798
What is the major source of nitrogen oxide (NO‚Çì) pollution?
Fossil fuel combustion, especially from vehicles, and the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.
1799
What are other major sources of nitrous oxide emissions besides composting?
Agricultural activities (especially fertilizer use), fossil fuel combustion, and industrial processes.
1800
What are Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)?
POPs are synthetic, carbon-based chemicals that persist in the environment, bioaccumulate through the food web, and pose a risk of causing adverse effects to human health and the environment.
1801
How does elevation affect climate?
Higher elevations are cooler because temperature decreases with altitude.
1802
What is bioaccumulation?
The gradual buildup in concentration of a chemical within a living organism compared to its environment, especially for fat-soluble substances.
1803
What is mineralization in the phosphorus cycle?
The process where decomposers convert organic phosphorus back into inorganic phosphate in the soil.
1804
What is the stratosphere?
The atmospheric layer above the troposphere, extending from ~16 to 50 km, where the ozone layer is located.
1805
Why are carbonate ions important in marine ecosystems?
They are essential for shell-building organisms to create calcium carbonate (CaCO‚ÇÉ) shells.
1806
Why are there typically fewer organisms at higher trophic levels?
Because energy decreases as it moves up the trophic levels, limiting biomass and population size.
1807
What are the key features of a sanitary landfill?
Bottom liner, storm water collection system, leachate collection system, cap, and methane collection system.
1808
How does monocropping lead to increased pesticide use?
Monocultures are more susceptible to pest outbreaks, requiring more chemical intervention to control pest populations.
1809
Which regions were more impacted by the Second Green Revolution?
The Second Green Revolution was more focused on sub-Saharan Africa and other parts of the Global South that did not benefit significantly from the First Green Revolution.
1810
What is the Rule of 70?
Doubling Time = 70 / Growth Rate.
1811
What gas is primarily responsible for ocean acidification?
Carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ).
1812
How do greenhouse gases trap heat?
They absorb infrared radiation and reradiate it in all directions.
1813
What causes seasons on Earth?
Earths axial tilt (23.5 degrees) and its revolution around the Sun.
1814
How did radiation from the Chernobyl disaster spread so widely?
Radioactive particles were carried by wind, spreading far beyond Ukraine and contaminating multiple European countries.
1815
What are hydrocarbons and why are they key to fossil fuel energy?
Hydrocarbons are molecules made of hydrogen and carbon; their bonds store energy released during combustion.
1816
How can soil erosion be prevented?
Through techniques like contour plowing, terracing, cover crops, and windbreaks.
1817
What is the capacity factor of a wind turbine, and what does it signify?
The capacity factor of onshore wind turbines in the U.S. ranges from 9% to 53%, averaging around 37%. It represents the percentage of total possible electricity a turbine actually generates over time.
1818
How does a natural disruption affect the hydrologic cycle?
It can alter precipitation patterns, runoff, infiltration, and water availability in ecosystems.
1819
What happens when a keystone species is removed?
Disrupted food webs, nutrient cycle collapse, population crashes, and extinctions.
1820
What is the role of ammonifying bacteria in soil nutrient cycling?
They recycle nitrogen by turning organic matter into ammonia.
1821
What are some solutions to reduce bycatch?
Using Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), modifying net shapes and mesh sizes, and avoiding fishing in breeding areas are ways to minimize bycatch and protect marine biodiversity.
1822
What major agreements target CO‚ÇÇ emissions to fight acidification?
The Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Climate Agreement.
1823
Why does organic matter build up in the Taigas soil?
Slow decomposition due to cold temperatures
1824
What is Earths rotation?
Earth spinning on its axis; causes day and night.
1825
Where does secondary succession occur?
In areas that already have soil and were previously inhabited by living organisms.
1826
What are some solutions to soil salinization?
Use freshwater sources, drip irrigation, aeration, or flush soil with fresh water to remove salts.
1827
List four major effects of climate change.
Rising temperatures, melting permafrost and sea ice, rising sea levels, and displacement of coastal populations.
1828
What are selective pressures?
Selective pressures are threats in the environment, like predators, climate change, or lack of food, that kill many organisms. Only the individuals with traits that help them survive the threat stay alive. These survivors pass on their traits to their offspring, and the whole species slowly changes over many generations.
1829
What is the Stockholm Convention?
An international treaty aimed at eliminating or restricting the production and use of POPs.
1830
Why are plastics especially harmful to marine ecosystems?
Plastics persist for centuries, break into microplastics, and introduce toxic chemicals to the food chain.
1831
What does a wider base in an age structure diagram suggest?
It indicates a high number of young individuals and potential for population growth.
1832
How does smog form from biomass burning?
Pollutants like NOx and VOCs react in sunlight to form smog, reducing air quality and photosynthesis rates.
1833
What natural process releases CO‚ÇÇ during the breakdown of organic matter in oxygen-rich environments?
Aerobic decomposition.
1834
How do run-of-river systems differ from water impoundment systems?
They divert river flow without large reservoirs, reducing ecological disruption but also power output.
1835
What is the zone of intolerance?
A range where organisms die due to extreme conditions.
1836
How has malaria transmission been reduced?
Insecticide-treated bed nets, window screens, spraying insecticides, and antimalarial drugs.
1837
What is groundwater recharge?
The process where precipitation percolates through soil to replenish an aquifer.
1838
What was the policy and environmental impact of the Chernobyl disaster?
It triggered international reforms in reactor safety, led to long-term exclusion zones, and contaminated ecosystems across Europe.
1839
Give examples of biomass as a depletable renewable resource.
Wood, charcoal, and ethanol from corn; these can run out if not harvested sustainably.
1840
Name a famous aquatic invasive species in North America.
Zebra mussels.
1841
Name two examples of invasive species found around the world.
Zebra mussel, kudzu vine, Burmese python, European starling, feral pigs, cane toad, emerald ash borer, European green crab, brown marmorated stink bug, gypsy moth.
1842
How could melting ice and climate change affect thermohaline circulation?
Melting glaciers and ice sheets add freshwater to the oceans, reducing salinity and potentially preventing the sinking of cold, salty water near Greenland, which could weaken or shut down the thermohaline circulation and disrupt global climate patterns.
1843
What is the difference between fundamental and realized niche?
The fundamental niche includes all abiotic conditions a species can tolerate, while the realized niche accounts for biotic interactions like competition or predation.
1844
How do synthetic fertilizers affect the soil microbiome?
They do not support microbial life, reducing soil biodiversity and natural nutrient cycling.
1845
What is a combined sewer system?
A sewer system where stormwater runoff and household sewage share the same pipes.
1846
What is green manure and its dual role in farming?
Green manure is decomposed plant matter from cover crops. It stabilizes soil during off-seasons, limits erosion, and enriches soil with organic nutrients as it breaks down, increasing yields and reducing fertilizer dependence.
1847
What is the purpose of a grit chamber in sewage treatment?
To allow sand, gravel, and small inorganic particles to settle out before biological treatment.
1848
What is the purpose of seed banks like the Svalbard Global Seed Vault?
To preserve genetic diversity of crops for future food security.
1849
What is porosity?
The amount of space between soil particles that can hold air or water.
1850
What does the direction of arrows in food chains/webs show?
They indicate the flow of energy from one organism to another
1851
Why is genetic modification a concern in aquaculture?
GM fish may grow faster but can escape, interbreed with wild types, and reduce genetic diversity or introduce novel traits, threatening wild population resilience and ecosystem balance.
1852
How does logging contribute to habitat fragmentation?
Logging, especially clearcutting, divides large habitats into smaller patches, isolating wildlife populations and reducing ecosystem resilience.
1853
How does monocropping affect soil and biodiversity?
It leads to soil erosion due to bare soil after harvest and reduces habitat diversity, harming pollinators and natural pest predators.
1854
How does thermal pollution lead to a decrease in biodiversity?
Sensitive species die off, reducing species diversity in aquatic ecosystems.
1855
What are health risks of dust exposure?
Asthma, respiratory irritation, and allergic reactions.
1856
Which nutrients most commonly cause eutrophication?
Nitrogen and phosphorus.
1857
What happens if composting occurs without oxygen (anaerobically)?
Methane gas is produced, which is a potent greenhouse gas.
1858
What is an example of reduce in daily life?
Using a metal water bottle instead of disposable plastic bottles.
1859
What technologies are used to capture pollutants in incinerators?
Electrostatic precipitators and scrubbers.
1860
What are the environmental effects of nitrogen oxides from human activity?
They can form smog and acid rain, harming plants, animals, and buildings.
1861
Why are POPs considered persistent?
Because they resist degradation through chemical, biological, and photolytic processes, allowing them to remain in the environment for extended periods.
1862
What is waste-to-energy (WTE)?
Using the heat from burning waste to produce electricity.
1863
What factors lead to lower TFR?
Higher education, economic opportunity for women, access to contraceptives, healthcare, and later age of first pregnancy.
1864
What is the difference between regulating and supporting ecosystem services?
Regulating services control natural processes (e.g. climate regulation, pollination), while supporting services are foundational processes (e.g. nutrient cycling, photosynthesis) that enable all other ecosystem services.
1865
Why is long-term planning essential in sustainable forestry?
Long-term planning in sustainable forestry is essential because forests grow and change over many decades. Without a long-term plan, overharvesting can damage the forest’s ability to recover, leading to resource depletion and ecosystem degradation.
1866
How does acid rain affect human-made structures?
It corrodes metals and deteriorates limestone and marble buildings and statues.
1867
What is carbon exchange?
The bidirectional movement of CO‚ÇÇ between the atmosphere and the oceans surface.
1868
What is anaerobic decomposition, and what does it produce?
Decomposition without oxygen that produces methane gas (CH‚ÇÑ).
1869
Why are zebra mussels a problem?
They outcompete native species, clog pipes, and reproduce rapidly.
1870
Example of species migration due to ocean warming?
Fish species moving northward in the North Sea.
1871
What types of trees are most commonly found in temperate seasonal forests?
Deciduous trees
1872
What are examples of natural resources provided as provisioning services?
Fish, hunting animals, berries, seeds, lumber, wild grains, and honey.
1873
Why does temperature increase the risk of algal blooms?
Warmer water speeds up algae reproduction, worsening eutrophication.
1874
Do all greenhouse gases have the same impact on warming?
No; greenhouse gases vary in their Global Warming Potentials (GWP) depending on their ability to absorb infrared radiation and how long they stay in the atmosphere.
1875
What is the climate like in temperate grasslands?
Cold winters, hot dry summers
1876
Why is international cooperation important in managing POPs?
Due to their ability to travel long distances, global efforts are necessary to effectively control and eliminate POPs.
1877
Is geothermal energy a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable – it relies on Earths internal heat, which is continuously generated.
1878
Why do invasive species cause economic damage?
Lost productivity, tourism decline, fishery loss, and property value decreases.
1879
What are subsistence fuels and why are they a concern?
Fuels like wood, charcoal, and manure used for heating/cooking indoors; they produce toxic pollutants in poorly ventilated homes.
1880
Why is access to antibiotics crucial in fighting infectious diseases?
They treat bacterial diseases like tuberculosis, plague, and cholera.
1881
What are the major types of aquaculture systems?
The two primary types are open systems (e.g., net pens or cages in natural waters) and closed systems (e.g., recirculating aquaculture systems or RAS on land). Open systems interact directly with the environment, while closed systems allow for more control and waste management.
1882
What are the IUCN’s main categories for species status?
Least concern, near-threatened, vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered, extinct in the wild, extinct.
1883
Where is most of the Earths nitrogen stored and what form is it in?
In the atmosphere as nitrogen gas (N‚ÇÇ), which makes up 78% of the air.
1884
How can restoring lost habitats help biodiversity?
It provides critical habitat and resources for recovering species.
1885
How do impermeable geological layers affect water flow in a watershed?
They increase surface runoff and reduce infiltration, leading to faster water movement and erosion.
1886
What is carbon monoxide (CO) and why is it dangerous?
A colorless, odorless gas that binds to hemoglobin, preventing oxygen transport and leading to suffocation.
1887
What is the relationship between acid rain and aquatic ecosystems?
Acid rain lowers pH, causing aluminum toxicity, disrupting blood regulation, damaging nervous systems, and killing sensitive species like mollusks and crustaceans.
1888
What are aquatic hitchhikers?
Invasive species like zebra mussels that attach to boats and spread.
1889
What are the three main age structure categories in population studies?
Prereproductive (0-14), Reproductive (15-44), and Postreproductive (45+).
1890
What is REACH and what principle does it reflect?
A 2007 EU regulation requiring chemical manufacturers to prove chemical safety before approval, reflecting the precautionary principle.
1891
What is the difference between confined and unconfined aquifers?
Confined aquifers are trapped beneath impermeable rock, while unconfined aquifers are open to surface infiltration.
1892
Why are secondary pollutants more common during the daytime?
Sunlight drives the chemical reactions needed to transform primary pollutants into secondary pollutants.
1893
How does vegetation influence water flow in a watershed?
Vegetation reduces erosion, slows runoff, cools water, and improves infiltration.
1894
How is risk calculated in a quantitative risk assessment?
Risk = probability of being exposed √ó probability of being harmed if exposed.
1895
What characterizes a Type II survivorship curve?
A constant rate of survivorship throughout life; equally likely to die at any age.
1896
Why are fat-soluble substances more likely to bioaccumulate?
Because they do not dissolve easily in water, do not enter the bloodstream efficiently, and are not easily excreted.
1897
Has the United States ratified the Stockholm Convention?
The U.S. has signed but not ratified the convention.
1898
Why are amphibians so vulnerable?
Their permeable skin makes them highly sensitive to pollution, habitat loss, and climate change.
1899
What do the arrows in a food chain or food web represent?
Arrows show the direction of energy flow—from the organism being eaten to the organism that eats it.
1900
How can natural disruptions drive evolution?
By creating environmental pressures that select for traits beneficial for survival, leading to adaptation over generations.
1901
Why is dysentery more common in developing nations?
Due to lack of clean water and proper sanitation.
1902
Which properties make a pollutant more likely to biomagnify?
Being fat-soluble, persistent (does not degrade easily), and biologically active.
1903
What is one natural factor that could worsen the effects of thermal pollution?
Climate change raising overall water temperatures.
1904
What are habitat corridors?
Strips of natural habitat that connect separated populations, allowing gene flow.
1905
What is permafrost and why is it important in tundra regions?
Frozen soil that limits drainage
1906
Why might wildlife migrate in response to natural disruptions?
To find suitable conditions, such as wildebeests following rain patterns or marine species moving poleward as oceans warm.
1907
What is thermohaline circulation?
A system that distributes heat throughout the ocean by moving warm and cold water masses.
1908
Is biomass a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable (but depletable) – it can be replenished with proper management but can be exhausted if overused.
1909
What factor beyond temperature can cause coral bleaching?
Pollution from agriculture and tourism.
1910
What greenhouse gas is released from nuclear plants, and why is it less concerning?
Water vapor, which is technically a greenhouse gas, is released but cycles quickly through the atmosphere.
1911
What is the impact of rising sea levels on ecosystems?
It can cause flooding of coastal and estuarine habitats, leading to habitat loss and disruption of ecosystem functions.
1912
Which soil type drains fastest?
Sand, because of its large particles and high permeability.
1913
What is the function of the O horizon?
It contains organic matter and decomposing leaves, contributing nutrients to lower layers.
1914
What are the benefits of recycling?
Reduces demand for raw materials, conserves landfill space, decreases habitat destruction, and lowers fossil fuel use.
1915
What are mine tailings in the context of nuclear fission power plants?
Waste materials left over after mining uranium, which may still contain radioactive elements and contaminate soil or water.
1916
What harmful substances can be found in e-waste?
Lead, cadmium, mercury, and PBDEs (flame retardants).
1917
What type of pollution source is leakage from a single broken underground storage tank?
Point Source
1918
What is the consequence of a loss in habitat diversity after a natural disruption?
Reduced species diversity, particularly among specialist species that rely on specific habitat conditions.
1919
What is the Littoral Zone in a lake or pond?
The shallow area near shore with algae and emergent plants
1920
What is the economic threshold in pest management?
The pest level at which economic loss begins to outweigh the cost of control actions.
1921
What environmental conditions favor the formation of photochemical smog?
Sunny, warm, and dry conditions with lots of vehicle traffic.
1922
Does a building with south-facing windows and thermal mass utilize passive or active solar energy?
Passive; it relies on design features to collect and store solar heat naturally.
1923
What health effects are associated with VOC exposure?
Eye, throat, and lung irritation, breathing difficulties, and potentially cancer.
1924
How can radon exposure be mitigated?
Seal foundation cracks and improve home ventilation.
1925
What are natural sources of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides?
Volcanoes, lightning, and microbial activity in soils.
1926
Which atmospheric layer contains most of the Earth’s ozone?
The stratosphere.
1927
What are the five primary factors that influence soil formation?
Parent material, climate, topography, organisms, and time.
1928
How many times is phosphorus typically recycled in land and ocean ecosystems before sedimentation?
About 46 times on land and 800 times in oceans.
1929
What legislation governs the regulation of industrial chemicals in the U.S.?
The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1976, amended by the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act in 2016.
1930
What are the most common global sources of energy?
Fossil fuels: oil, coal, and natural gas.
1931
What is interspecific competition?
Competition between individuals of different species
1932
What is the difference between energy flow and nutrient cycling?
Energy flows one way and is eventually lost as heat; nutrients (matter) are recycled through ecosystems.
1933
What is the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)?
A recurring climate pattern involving changes in the temperature of waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, affecting global weather patterns.
1934
What are the main factors that determine Earths climate patterns?
Global air circulation, ocean currents, and the angle of the Suns rays.
1935
What is the residence time of methane in the atmosphere?
About 12 years.
1936
What is a trophic cascade?
A series of changes that occur as a result of one level of a trophic pyramid being affected.
1937
What happens to biodiversity when habitats shift northward?
Some species cannot adapt quickly enough and face local extinction.
1938
Name one species that grows larger in more acidic water.
Lobsters grow thicker shells and larger bodies under more acidic conditions, possibly as a physiological response to protect themselves in more corrosive environments.
1939
What is a case of natural selection in response to disruption?
Species evolving drought resistance or heat tolerance in response to climate shifts.
1940
What is the chemical formula for carbonic acid?
H‚ÇÇCO‚ÇÉ.
1941
How can mosquito-borne diseases be prevented?
Insect repellent, insecticide-treated bed nets, removing standing water, spraying habitats with insecticide.
1942
What role does sunlight play in the formation of photochemical smog?
Sunlight breaks down nitrogen dioxide into nitric oxide and free oxygen atoms, which then form ozone.
1943
What conditions favor the formation of a thermal inversion?
Clear nights, low wind, long winter nights, urban heat island effect, and coastal upwelling.
1944
What is a major drawback of pesticide use?
Pesticides can harm non-target species such as bees, birds, beneficial insects, and even humans, disrupting ecosystems and food chains.
1945
Give an example of stabilizing selection.
Human birth weight: Babies of average weight have higher survival rates than those at extreme weights.
1946
What role does natural selection play in ecological succession?
It favors species better suited to the altered environment, influencing the progression of ecological succession.
1947
What is the relationship between ocean pH and atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ levels?
As atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ increases, ocean pH decreases (becomes more acidic).
1948
What happens to diversity when sea stars are removed?
Mussels dominate, and biodiversity sharply decreases.
1949
Is hydroelectric power a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable – water cycles through the environment naturally, making it sustainable if managed properly.
1950
Define a population in an ecosystem.
A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area
1951
How does aquaculture compare to deep-sea fishing in terms of resource use?
Aquaculture generally uses less fuel, is more predictable, and allows for year-round production, whereas deep-sea fishing requires large vessels, extensive travel, and is subject to declining wild stocks.
1952
What are the effects of eutrophication?
Algal blooms, oxygen depletion (hypoxia), fish kills, loss of biodiversity, and creation of dead zones.
1953
What is the Energy Returned on Investment (EROI) for wind power?
About 20, meaning for every unit of energy invested, 20 units are returned.
1954
What types of trees and plants are commonly found in temperate rainforests?
Conifers, ferns, mosses
1955
Where are major wind energy resources located in the U.S., and why?
The Great Plains region has significant wind energy potential due to its consistent and strong wind patterns.
1956
How does a dry scrubber work?
It sprays dry chemicals that react with pollutants to neutralize them, often forming solids that are captured.
1957
How can shading waterways reduce thermal pollution effects?
Planting trees along banks provides shade, lowering water temperatures naturally.
1958
Why is methane leakage during fracking especially problematic?
Methane is 84–86x more effective than CO₂ in trapping heat over a 20-year period, significantly contributing to global warming.
1959
What is a climax community?
A stable group of plants and animals resulting from the succession process.
1960
What is a trophic level?
A trophic level is a position an organism occupies in a food chain, representing its role in the flow of energy and matter in an ecosystem.
1961
What percentage of GPP is typically used for respiration?
About 60%.
1962
Why is genetic diversity important in agriculture?
It ensures resilience against disease, pests, and environmental changes.
1963
What is bycatch and what problems does it cause?
Bycatch is the accidental capture of non-target species. It kills dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and disrupts population dynamics of many marine species.
1964
Can standard secondary treatment remove pesticides and industrial chemicals?
No; secondary treatment mainly targets organic waste and does not remove persistent chemicals.
1965
Why does decomposition occur slowly in landfills?
Lack of oxygen, low moisture, and unfavorable conditions for microbes.
1966
How do scientists calculate safe environmental limits for pollutants?
By determining LD50 or ED50 values and applying large safety margins (√ó1/10 for animals, √ó1/1000 for humans).
1967
How does environmental change affect species distributions?
It can cause species to migrate, shift ranges, or go extinct if they can’t adapt or move.
1968
How does ocean acidification relate to the broader issue of global change?
It shows how local emissions contribute to global environmental impacts.
1969
What does r-selected mean regarding invasive species?
Species that mature quickly, have many offspring, and little parental care.
1970
What are tailing ponds and why are they dangerous?
Wastewater ponds from tar sands and fracking; may contain carcinogens like benzene and can leak into surrounding soil and water.
1971
How does climate change relate to the Tragedy of the Commons?
Greenhouse gas emissions from individuals and countries contribute to global warming, a problem that affects all but is hard to regulate collectively.
1972
What are cultural ecosystem services?
Non-material benefits like aesthetic value, recreation, tourism revenue, and educational/scientific discoveries.
1973
Why is sea level rise especially dangerous for cities like New Orleans?
They are already below sea level and depend on pumps and levees.
1974
What law established the U.S. sulfur dioxide cap-and-trade system?
The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments.
1975
What long-term consequence does ocean warming have even if greenhouse gases stabilize?
The ocean can continue releasing stored heat for decades.
1976
What natural events release carbon monoxide (CO), NOx, particulate matter, and CO‚ÇÇ into the atmosphere?
Forest fires and volcanic eruptions.
1977
How does geothermal energy compare to fossil fuels in CO‚ÇÇ emissions?
Geothermal emits far less CO‚ÇÇ and no combustion pollutants like fossil fuels.
1978
How does aquaculture harm mangrove ecosystems?
It replaces mangroves with shrimp farms, reducing biodiversity and ecosystem services.
1979
Why are fracking and tar sands not considered sustainable long-term solutions?
Both methods rely on non-renewable resources and have significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, making them unsustainable in the long term.
1980
What is instrumental value in ecosystems?
The value based on goods and services ecosystems provide to humans.
1981
What are the economic benefits of clearcutting?
Clearcutting is economically efficient, allowing for the rapid harvest of timber and facilitating the regeneration of sun-loving tree species.
1982
What is the objective of sewage treatment?
To treat wastewater so that it can be safely released into the environment without harming ecosystems or posing health risks.
1983
What are symptoms of sick building syndrome?
Headaches, dizziness, eye and throat irritation, and fatigue.
1984
Why is carbon essential for life?
Carbon forms the backbone of macromolecules like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, making up ~20% of body mass.
1985
What are the two main causes of rising sea levels?
Melting ice sheets and thermal expansion of ocean water.
1986
What is the Ring of Fire?
A major area in the Pacific Ocean basin known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.
1987
What happens to air on the leeward side of a mountain?
Air sinks, compresses, warms, and remains dry, resulting in arid conditions.
1988
What is urbanization?
The process of converting natural landscapes such as forests and wetlands into urban areas like cities and towns.
1989
What law regulates incinerator emissions?
The Clean Air Act.
1990
What are the seven key carbon cycle processes?
Photosynthesis, respiration, exchange, sedimentation, burial, extraction, and combustion.
1991
Soil forms over time, creating a foundation for plant life. What type of ecosystem service is this?
Supporting service (soil formation).
1992
What are five processes that affect evolution?
Continental drift, dispersal/extinction, volcanoes, asteroid impacts, and climate change.
1993
What is ocean warming primarily caused by?
An increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
1994
What is an artesian well?
A well drilled into a confined aquifer where water rises due to pressure.
1995
What distinguishes organic from synthetic fertilizers in nutrient release?
Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly over time, while synthetic fertilizers release them rapidly.
1996
How does a ground source heat pump work in the winter?
In winter, the fluid in underground pipes absorbs stored heat from the ground. As the fluid warms, it is cycled into the house, where it transfers the heat into the indoor air. This process continues to warm the house efficiently.
1997
How does the Marine Mammal Protection Act relate to overfishing?
This U.S. law prohibits the killing or harassment of marine mammals and requires measures to reduce bycatch of dolphins, whales, and seals in commercial fishing operations.
1998
How are volcanic island chains like Hawaii formed?
By a tectonic plate moving over a stationary hot spot.
1999
How does mercury pollution commonly occur?
From coal-burning power plants, mining operations, and waste incineration.
2000
How many mass extinctions have occurred in Earths history?
Five major mass extinctions.
2001
What specific pollutants are commonly released from coal-fired power plants?
Particulate matter, carbon dioxide (CO‚ÇÇ), nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì), and sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ).
2002
Why are hydrogen fuel cells considered environmentally friendly?
They emit only water and heat as byproducts, eliminating air pollutants and greenhouse gases if the hydrogen is sourced cleanly.
2003
What is Life Expectancy at Birth?
The average number of years a newborn can expect to live under current mortality conditions.
2004
What are density-dependent factors?
Factors like food, water, competition, and disease that impact growth based on population size.
2005
What does it mean to be heterozygous?
Being heterozygous means having two different alleles for a particular gene (e.g. Aa).
2006
What is the Clean Air Act?
The Clean Air Act is a federal law passed in 1970 that authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set national air quality standards, monitor pollutant levels, and enforce limits on air emissions from both stationary and mobile sources. It targets harmful air pollutants to protect public health and the environment.
2007
Why is the kudzu vine considered invasive?
It grows extremely fast and smothers native plants.
2008
What is demography?
The study of human populations and population trends.
2009
What are the environmental consequences of industrial agriculture?
Includes soil erosion, biodiversity loss, contamination of surface and groundwater, and increased energy use from fossil fuels.
2010
Why is using forests for energy sometimes not sustainable?
Because deforestation often occurs faster than reforestation, making it a depletable practice.
2011
List examples of primary pollutants.
Carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO‚ÇÇ), nitrogen oxides (NO‚Çì), particulate matter (PM‚ÇÅ‚ÇÄ and PM‚ÇÇ.‚ÇÖ), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and lead (Pb).
2012
How is ethanol produced as a biofuel?
By fermenting sugars in corn or sugar cane using yeast, then distilling the ethanol.
2013
How does deforestation contribute to ocean acidification?
By increasing atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ levels due to loss of carbon sinks.
2014
How does aquaculture help prevent fishery collapse?
By cultivating fish in farms instead of harvesting from natural populations, aquaculture decreases the strain on wild fish stocks, helping to avoid the critical depletion of species due to overfishing.
2015
How could increased use of electric cars impact air pollution?
It could reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from vehicle exhaust, improving air quality.
2016
What does it mean when a species is classified as endangered?
It means the species is in danger of extinction within the foreseeable future.
2017
What is the purpose of the water pump in a nuclear reactor?
It brings in cool water to absorb heat from the core and prevent overheating.
2018
How many global deaths per year are linked to indoor air pollution?
Approximately 4 million, with 90% in developing countries and over 50% being children.
2019
How do you calculate the percentage growth rate of a population?
Growth Rate (%) = [(Births + Immigration) - (Deaths + Emigration)] / Total Population √ó 100.
2020
What is particulate matter (PM)?
Tiny particles or droplets in the air that can be inhaled and cause health problems.
2021
Why do shallow, warm waters support coral growth?
They provide the sunlight needed for algae photosynthesis.
2022
What are supporting services in ecosystems?
Fundamental processes like nutrient cycling, soil formation, and photosynthesis that support all other ecosystem services.
2023
What happened to fish diversity in the North Sea as temperatures rose?
Fish diversity increased from 60 to 90 species as warmer-water species migrated north.
2024
How does domestic activity contribute to noise pollution?
Activities such as lawn mowing, home renovations, and loud music.
2025
What does it imply if developing countries have low ecological footprints?
They may consume fewer resources per capita but could still face environmental challenges due to population size and rapid development.
2026
Why are deserts commonly found at 30° N and S latitude?
Descending dry air in Hadley cells warms adiabatically, creating arid climates.
2027
What is an organism?
An organism is any individual living thing, from bacteria to plants and animals
2028
What is weathering?
The breaking down of rocks into smaller particles through physical, chemical, or biological processes.
2029
What is a benefit of integrating aquatic invertebrates like crabs into aquaculture systems?
They consume organic waste from fish, reducing pollution and improving system efficiency, as seen in IMTA or polyculture systems.
2030
Why do farmers often have trouble maintaining crops in tropical rainforest soils?
The soil has low fertility because in a tropical rainforest most of the nutrients are taken up and used by plant growth
2031
What is intercropping, and which tier of IPM does it fall under?
Growing different crops together to deter pests; its a cultural control strategy.
2032
How do agricultural practices contribute to eutrophication?
Fertilizer runoff and manure from CAFOs (feedlots) add nitrates and phosphates to waterways.
2033
How do hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity?
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by splitting H‚ÇÇ into protons and electrons; the electrons flow through a circuit creating electricity, and the protons react with oxygen to form water.
2034
What are the characteristics of rapidly growing populations?
Early reproduction, short generation time, long reproductive lifespan, and high fecundity.
2035
How does habitat loss cause species to become endangered?
It removes the critical environment species need to survive and reproduce.
2036
What are main threats to intertidal zones?
Trash, pollution, and oil spills
2037
What is sustainable agriculture?
Farming practices that meet current food needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs, focusing on environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity.
2038
What are fossil fuels and how do they form?
Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) form from ancient biological matter under heat and pressure in anaerobic conditions over millions of years. They are nonrenewable.
2039
Why is reforestation important after logging?
It helps restore forest ecosystems, reduce erosion, and sequester carbon, but may still fall short in restoring biodiversity if done with monocultures.
2040
What role did pesticides play during the Green Revolution?
Pesticides were used to control pests and diseases, reducing crop losses and improving food security.
2041
How does acid rain impact soil?
It leaches important nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium from soil, reducing fertility.
2042
What is an action threshold in Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
A defined pest population level at which control measures should be applied to prevent economic loss.
2043
What is subduction?
The process where one tectonic plate sinks beneath another into the mantle.
2044
What is the 10% rule in ecology?
Only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next; the rest is lost as heat, movement, or metabolic processes.
2045
Why can r-selected species recover more quickly after a disturbance?
Their high reproductive rate and short generation time allow for rapid population recovery.
2046
What do herbivores eat?
Herbivores consume only plants
2047
How does primary treatment differ from secondary treatment in the type of pollutants they remove?
Primary removes large physical solids; secondary biologically breaks down dissolved organic matter.
2048
Which three countries hold the largest natural gas reserves?
Russia, Iran, and Qatar have the largest natural gas reserves.
2049
What happens when organisms exceed their ecological tolerance?
They may experience stress, reduced fitness, migration, or death, leading to population decline or local extinction.
2050
How do human activities disrupt the carbon cycle?
Deforestation, fossil fuel combustion, agriculture, and industry raise CO‚ÇÇ levels and alter natural fluxes.
2051
Why was the use of DDT phased out?
Because of its persistent environmental effects and its biomagnification leading to ecological and human health issues.
2052
When are ozone concentrations highest during the day?
In the afternoon, when sunlight is strongest and reactions have accumulated.
2053
How does the 10% rule explain the inefficiency of meat production?
Animals consume plants and lose most of that energy through metabolism, so humans only get a fraction of the energy originally captured by plants.
2054
Why are polar regions colder?
They receive less direct sunlight and have high-albedo surfaces that reflect more energy.
2055
How do prevailing winds affect climate?
Winds from the poles bring cooler air; winds from the equator bring warmer air; oceanic winds bring moisture, and continental winds are drier.
2056
How does overgrazing harm land and productivity?
Overgrazing removes too much plant matter, weakening root systems and compacting soil. This reduces water infiltration, increases erosion, and can lead to desertification and lower long-term yields.
2057
What happens to air after it rises at the equator in a Hadley cell?
It cools, condenses moisture, and then descends as dry air around 30° latitude.
2058
What is artificial selection?
Artificial selection occurs when humans choose which individuals breed to produce desired traits.
2059
What causes acid mine drainage?
Rainwater mixes with pyrite (FeS‚ÇÇ) in exposed rock, producing sulfuric acid (H‚ÇÇSO‚ÇÑ), which leaches heavy metals into water sources.
2060
How do high-albedo surfaces affect climate?
They reflect more sunlight, keeping the surface cooler.
2061
How does increased sediment impact coral reefs?
Reduces sunlight penetration, impairs photosynthesis for algae, clogs coral polyps, smothers habitats, and decreases reef biodiversity.
2062
What is hexachlorobenzene and its significance as a POP?
Hexachlorobenzene is a fungicide and industrial chemical recognized for its persistence and bioaccumulation.
2063
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A national park limits the number of visitors per day to protect the ecosystem.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The regulation helps prevent overuse and preserves the shared resource.
2064
What is biological weathering?
Weathering caused by organisms (e.g., plant roots and lichen secreting acids).
2065
How do rain barrels contribute to energy conservation?
They collect rainwater for irrigation, reducing reliance on energy-intensive municipal water systems.
2066
What is the main source of energy in hydroelectric power generation?
The kinetic energy of moving water, which spins a turbine to generate electricity.
2067
How are invasive species commonly introduced to ecosystems?
Through human activity like trade, travel, or agriculture.
2068
What are the main causes of thermal pollution?
Power plants (especially nuclear and fossil fuel), industrial operations, and urban runoff.
2069
What are some economic impacts of building a hydroelectric dam?
High construction costs, displacement, maintenance needs, and sediment dredging; but also long-term jobs and tourism revenue.
2070
How can window placement enhance passive solar heating?
Placing windows on the south-facing side of a building (in the Northern Hemisphere) maximizes solar heat gain during colder months.
2071
What human actions can reduce cultural eutrophication?
Reducing fertilizer use, using vegetative buffers, constructing wetlands, upgrading sewage plants, improving stormwater systems, and reducing fossil fuel use.
2072
What does the Clean Water Act (CWA) do in relation to mining?
Regulates discharges from mining into water bodies via permits. Protects wetlands and streams from contamination by runoff and waste, especially in mountaintop removal.
2073
What are prescribed burns and how do they support sustainable forestry?
Prescribed burns are small, carefully planned fires that are intentionally set to clear out dead plant material, recycle nutrients, and prevent large-scale wildfires. They support sustainable forestry by encouraging healthy forest regeneration.
2074
What drives urban sprawl?
Cheaper property in suburbs, access to cars, expanded highways, and reduced city services due to declining tax revenue.
2075
What types of plants dominate the shrubland biome?
Drought-resistant shrubs
2076
What role does aquaculture play in overfishing?
It can reduce overfishing by providing alternative sources of seafood, but if feed is made from wild fish or systems are mismanaged, it can indirectly sustain or worsen overfishing.
2077
Identify one regulatory action that reduced indoor exposure to hazardous materials and describe its impact.
The EPA’s ban on lead-based paints in 1978 reduced childhood lead poisoning and improved public health outcomes.
2078
What is an exotic species?
A species living outside its historical range.
2079
Why is nonpoint source pollution more difficult to control than point source pollution? Explain with details.
Nonpoint source pollution comes from multiple, widespread sources, making it hard to trace and regulate. It requires broad strategies like land-use changes, unlike point sources, which can be individually targeted.
2080
List species that are endangered due to having a fixed migratory pattern.
Blue whale, whooping crane, sea turtles.
2081
How does altered precipitation affect marine ecosystems?
Increased freshwater runoff can change ocean salinity.
2082
How does high BOD lead to dead zones?
Bacteria use up oxygen to decompose waste, leaving too little for fish and other aquatic life, causing mass die-offs.
2083
How are sludge and activated sludge different?
Sludge is inorganic waste; activated sludge is biological material pumped back into aeration tanks to aid microbial breakdown.
2084
What is parent material in soil formation?
The underlying geological material (generally bedrock) from which a soil's inorganic components are derived.
2085
How long are global oil and natural gas reserves estimated to last at current consumption rates?
Oil reserves are estimated to last approximately 47 years, while natural gas reserves could last about 53 years.
2086
What is the chemical reaction that forms carbonic acid in water?
CO‚ÇÇ + H‚ÇÇO ‚Üí H‚ÇÇCO‚ÇÉ.
2087
How does DDT cause eggshell thinning in birds?
DDT and its metabolites interfere with calcium metabolism, leading to thinner eggshells and reduced reproductive success.
2088
What happens when infrared radiation is absorbed by greenhouse gases?
It warms the gases, which then radiate heat back to Earths surface.
2089
How did the Green Revolution affect water usage?
It led to increased irrigation, often resulting in over-extraction of water resources and depletion of aquifers.
2090
How can climate change spread malaria into new regions?
Warmer winters allow mosquitoes to survive in places like southern Europe, North America, and East Asia.
2091
What does the first law of thermodynamics state?
Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
2092
What does CITES stand for?
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
2093
How can green infrastructure help reduce urban thermal pollution?
By increasing vegetative cover and using permeable surfaces to lower runoff temperature.
2094
Why is chlorine so damaging to the ozone layer?
Chlorine atoms are highly reactive and catalytically destroy ozone, continuing to react without being used up.
2095
What is karst topography, and how is it related to acid rain?
Karst topography forms when acidic water dissolves limestone, creating caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
2096
What is meant by “anthropogenic intensification” of the greenhouse effect?
Human activities increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases.
2097
How does natural climate change influence ecosystems over time?
Through variations in Earths orbit and tilt, it causes changes like ice ages or warming periods, affecting habitats and sea levels.
2098
What are impervious surfaces and their environmental impact?
Impervious surfaces like roads and buildings prevent water infiltration, causing flooding and reduced groundwater recharge.
2099
What is the precautionary principle?
A philosophy advocating action to restrict chemicals based on plausible scientific risk even before harm is fully proven.
2100
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A group of fishermen harvest as many fish as possible from a shared lake, leading to a significant decline in fish populations.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The lake is a shared resource, and overfishing by individuals for personal gain leads to depletion, harming the entire community.
2101
What are the four types of population fluctuations?
Stable, irruptive, cyclic, and irregular.
2102
What environmental risks are associated with combined sewer systems during heavy rain?
Overflow can release untreated sewage into rivers, causing pollution.
2103
Does a hydrogen fuel cell require electricity input to operate like electrolysis?
No, a hydrogen fuel cell produces electricity, whereas electrolysis requires an input of electricity to function.
2104
What is e-waste?
Discarded electronic devices like TVs, computers, and phones containing hazardous materials.
2105
How do you calculate the energy efficiency of a system?
Efficiency (%) = (Useful Energy Output / Total Energy Input) √ó 100.
2106
How does nitrogen dioxide (NO‚ÇÇ) form nitric acid (HNO‚ÇÉ)?
NO‚ÇÇ reacts with water to form nitrous acid (HNO‚ÇÇ) and nitric acid (HNO‚ÇÉ).
2107
What is biological control in the context of IPM?
The use of natural predators, parasites, or competitors to reduce pest populations.
2108
What real-world evidence shows slow decomposition in landfills?
Newspapers up to 40 years old have been found still legible inside landfills.
2109
How does noise pollution cause stress in animals?
Constant loud sounds activate stress responses that can harm animal health and behavior.
2110
What is selective breeding?
Human-controlled breeding favoring certain traits, often reducing genetic diversity.
2111
What does the absence of trout indicate?
Poor water quality in areas where they should be present.
2112
What is the effect of sediment in urban runoff?
Sediment clouds the water (turbidity), reducing light penetration necessary for photosynthesis in aquatic plants. It can smother fish eggs, clog fish gills, and degrade aquatic habitats, leading to a decline in biodiversity and water quality.
2113
What is a confined aquifer?
A groundwater storage area trapped between layers of less permeable rock, under pressure.
2114
What does “oligotrophic” mean in marine contexts?
Nutrient-poor waters, often around coral reefs
2115
What are the benefits of walkable city designs and public transport?
They reduce reliance on cars, lower emissions, and help retain urban population.
2116
What caused the extinction at the end of the Cretaceous period?
A meteorite impact that blocked sunlight and disrupted food chains.
2117
What are high-yield crop varieties?
Genetically improved crops developed to produce more food per acre, often requiring more inputs like water and fertilizers.
2118
Why is Morocco referred to as the Saudi Arabia of phosphorus?
It holds around 40% of global phosphate reserves.
2119
What is intraspecific competition?
Competition among members of the same species
2120
What are some general environmental impacts of mining?
Topsoil erosion, habitat fragmentation, stream turbidity, and biodiversity loss.
2121
What is a point source of pollution?
Pollution produced from a single, identifiable location, such as a smokestack or a waste discharge pipe.
2122
How does industrial activity contribute to noise pollution?
Operation of large machinery, production processes, and factory noise.
2123
What type of pollution source is exhaust emissions from a single power plants chimney?
Point Source
2124
Which soil type holds the most water?
Clay, due to its fine particles and low permeability.
2125
What geological features form at convergent boundaries?
Mountains, island arcs, earthquakes, and volcanoes.
2126
What is Earth’s human carrying capacity according to Malthusian theory?
A limit based on food production, where population growth exceeds food supply, leading to population crashes.
2127
What occurs during Phase 4 (Postindustrial) of the demographic transition?
Both birth and death rates are low; in some cases, birth rates fall below death rates, causing population decline.
2128
What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?
Easily vaporized chemicals from items like cleaners, paints, furniture, and glues.
2129
What are three major benefits of aquaculture?
1) High feed-to-protein conversion efficiency, especially in species like tilapia or catfish; 2) Small spatial footprint compared to land-based meat production; 3) Reduced fuel consumption compared to wild fishing fleets.
2130
Why does conserving electricity reduce air pollution?
It reduces the demand for electricity from fossil fuel power plants, lowering emissions of SO‚ÇÇ, CO‚ÇÇ, and NOx.
2131
What is the role of cellular respiration in the carbon cycle?
Organisms break down glucose, releasing CO‚ÇÇ back into the atmosphere.
2132
Why are renewable energy power plants currently more expensive than nonrenewable ones?
Renewable technologies are newer, but costs are expected to decline with technological advancements.
2133
What is the Haber-Bosch process and how does it alter the nitrogen cycle?
It makes ammonia from N‚ÇÇ gas in factories for use in fertilizers, adding extra nitrogen to soil.
2134
What is pesticide resistance?
Pesticide resistance is when a population of pests evolves the ability to survive exposure to a pesticide. Over time, this reduces the effectiveness of the pesticide.
2135
What is dry deposition?
Acidic gases and particles that stick to surfaces without precipitation.
2136
List three ecosystem services provided by mangroves.
Coastal protection, water filtration, and carbon sequestration.
2137
What are the environmental and health effects of radiation exposure?
It can cause genetic mutations, cancer, and long-term damage to ecosystems and human populations.
2138
What do E. coli indicate when found in water?
Potential contamination with human waste and presence of harmful pathogens.
2139
What is placer mining?
Searching river sediments for minerals like gold and diamonds; historically used during the California Gold Rush.
2140
What is a watershed?
An area of land where all water drains to a common outlet such as a stream, lake, or ocean.
2141
How can individuals help reduce ocean acidification?
By reducing carbon footprints (e.g., using clean energy, reducing driving).
2142
Why is nitrous oxide a concern for the ozone layer?
Nitrous oxide breaks down in the stratosphere, releasing reactive nitrogen compounds that destroy ozone molecules.
2143
What is the optimal range in the tolerance zone?
Its where organisms can survive, grow, and reproduce.
2144
What is the main anthropogenic source of CO‚ÇÇ?
Burning fossil fuels.
2145
What is dredging and why is it necessary for dams?
The removal of sediment buildup behind dams to maintain reservoir capacity and efficiency.
2146
What is the innocent-until-proven-guilty principle?
A philosophy assuming chemicals are safe until definitive scientific evidence shows harm.
2147
What process in landfills produces methane?
Anaerobic decomposition of organic waste.
2148
Define a threatened species.
A species likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future across all or part of its range.
2149
What is rotational grazing and how does it support pasture sustainability?
Rotational grazing involves periodically moving livestock between pastures to avoid overgrazing. It maintains healthy vegetation, encourages faster plant regrowth, prevents soil compaction, and enhances root depth and soil structure.
2150
What happens during the December solstice?
The Southern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun; longest day in the south; Sun is overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn.
2151
What is CITES and how does it relate to marine species?
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) regulates the international trade of listed species to prevent overexploitation, including marine species such as whales and sea turtles.
2152
What does a house-shaped age structure diagram suggest?
Stable population with little or no growth.
2153
What would be a better FRQ answer than add cooling towers to reduce thermal pollution?
Increase the efficiency of existing cooling towers or hold water longer before discharge.
2154
What is upwelling and why is it important?
The vertical movement of cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface, which supports high primary productivity and fisheries.
2155
What is the pathogen and vector for malaria?
Pathogen: Plasmodium parasite; Vector: Mosquito (Anopheles species).
2156
How many species have scientists identified and catalogued?
About 2 million species.
2157
What does performance look like across a range of ecological tolerance?
Organisms perform best in optimal conditions; performance decreases with increasing stress, and ceases outside the tolerance range.
2158
What is an adaptation?
An adaptation is a heritable trait that improves an organisms fitness in a particular environment.
2159
How can burning fossil fuels contribute to heavy metal pollution in water?
Fossil fuel combustion releases mercury, arsenic, and other metals into the atmosphere, which are then deposited into water bodies.
2160
How does ENSO affect global climate?
It shifts patterns of temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric circulation globally, influencing droughts, floods, and storms.
2161
How does water contribute to weathering and erosion?
Through mechanical and chemical processes that break down rock and transport sediment.
2162
Give an example of physiological stress caused by global warming in fish.
Fish may suffocate due to lower dissolved oxygen in warmer water.
2163
What benefits does composting provide?
Reduces landfill volume, enriches soil, improves soil fertility and structure.
2164
How does a steep angle of incidence affect temperature?
It concentrates energy over a smaller area, increasing temperature.
2165
What are prescribed burns and how do they support sustainable forestry?
Prescribed burns are small, carefully planned fires that are intentionally set by trained professionals under controlled conditions. These burns help clear out dead plant material, also known as biomass, which could otherwise fuel dangerous wildfires. By burning this material in a controlled way, prescribed burns recycle nutrients back into the soil, making it more fertile for new plant growth. They also prevent large-scale, uncontrolled fires by removing the buildup of fuel. This supports sustainable forestry by protecting ecosystems and encouraging healthy forest regeneration.
2166
How do natural disruptions affect biodiversity?
They can reduce biodiversity by eliminating species that cannot adapt or migrate, but may also create new opportunities for other species.
2167
What is illegal ocean dumping?
Unauthorized disposal of waste directly into oceans.
2168
How do atmospheric pressure and density change with altitude?
Both decrease with increasing altitude.
2169
What are two environmental problems caused by ocean warming?
Habitat loss and altered reproductive cycles.
2170
What occurs in the thermosphere?
The aurora borealis and absorption of X-rays and UV radiation.
2171
How do polar stratospheric clouds enhance ozone depletion?
They facilitate the release of molecular chlorine, which UV radiation breaks into chlorine atoms that destroy ozone.
2172
What type of pollution source is sediment washing off multiple construction sites after a rainstorm?
Nonpoint Source
2173
What is the source of geothermal energy?
Natural radioactive decay of elements deep within the Earths core.
2174
How are amphibians and reptiles represented in chemical testing?
Aquatic amphibians/reptiles are represented by fish; terrestrial ones by birds.
2175
What is a predator-prey relationship?
A biological interaction where a predator hunts, kills, and eats its prey
2176
What is a carcinogen?
A substance capable of causing cancer.
2177
How do invasive plants harm ecosystems?
They crowd out native plants, reduce sunlight access, and alter habitats.
2178
What are drawbacks of chemical pest control?
Can cause resistance, harm non-target species, contaminate water, and negatively affect human health.
2179
What is the predicted ocean pH by 2100?
Around 7.8.
2180
Which country uses geothermal for most of its electricity?
Iceland.
2181
What is habitat fragmentation?
The breaking of large habitats into smaller, isolated sections.
2182
What are the steps in a coal-burning power plant?
Coal is mined, pulverized, burned in a boiler, heats water to steam, steam spins turbine, turbine powers generator.
2183
What are typical geographic locations for thermal inversions?
Valleys and basins, especially cities surrounded by mountains.
2184
Why does lower ocean pH threaten coral reef ecosystems?
It reduces calcium carbonate availability, critical for coral structure.
2185
What makes r-selected species more likely to become invasive?
Their adaptability, high reproductive rate, and rapid growth.
2186
What are examples of cultural pest control methods?
Crop rotation, intercropping, altering irrigation schedules, and managing soil pH.
2187
What is genetic diversity?
Genetic variation among individuals in a population.
2188
Why are some plant species in southwestern Australia at risk of extinction?
Climate change is reducing the woodland/shrubland biome, leaving no suitable habitat.
2189
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? An open-access fishery experiences a decline in fish populations due to unregulated fishing.
Yes, this is a tragedy of the commons. The fishery is a shared resource, and lack of regulation leads to overexploitation.
2190
Why is it difficult to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between pollutants and human health issues?
Because humans are exposed to a variety of pollutants simultaneously.
2191
What is the relationship between corals and algae?
Mutualistic – algae photosynthesize and provide food; corals provide shelter
2192
How can ecological footprints guide sustainability efforts?
By identifying lifestyle areas (like diet, travel, and energy use) where resource use can be reduced.
2193
What is selective cutting, and how does it differ from clearcutting?
Selective cutting involves removing specific trees while preserving the overall forest structure, minimizing environmental impacts compared to clearcutting.
2194
Why is cultural control at the base of the IPM pyramid?
It involves long-term prevention by creating unfavorable conditions for pests (e.g., adjusting soil, planting times, crop spacing).
2195
What is one major consequence of environmental upheaval?
Large-scale habitat change or destruction, which can lead to migration or extinction of affected species.
2196
What is the purpose of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act?
To ensure sustainable management of forest resources, requiring periodic assessments and planning.
2197
Is solar energy a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Renewable – it comes from the sun and is constantly replenished.
2198
What are the two basic rules of Island Biogeography?
Larger islands support more species, and islands closer to the mainland support more species.
2199
What is a gene pool?
The gene pool is the collection of all genes and their alleles present in a population.
2200
What percentage of cell phones are recycled?
Only about 10%.
2201
Give examples of high-albedo surfaces.
Snow, ice, and light-colored surfaces.
2202
How do forests and oceans contribute to climate regulation?
They act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide to help regulate Earths climate.
2203
What is the difference between pollutants and pollution in AP Environmental Science?
Pollutants are specific chemicals causing harm; pollution is a vague term for any unwanted environmental substance and should be avoided on FRQs.
2204
What is CITES purpose?
To regulate and restrict the international trade of endangered plants and animals.
2205
What is monocropping and its potential impact?
Monocropping increases planting efficiency but reduces biodiversity, increases vulnerability to pests and disease, and can degrade soil quality.
2206
What is slash-and-burn agriculture?
Its the practice of cutting down and burning vegetation to clear land, which temporarily enriches soil but leads to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and air pollution.
2207
How does nutrient pollution from the Mississippi River impact the Gulf of Mexico?
It causes massive algal blooms that lead to dead zones in the Gulf due to hypoxia.
2208
What farming practice can reduce biodiversity loss?
Sustainable agriculture practices like crop rotation and reduced pesticide use.
2209
What is photochemical smog?
A type of air pollution formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react with heat and sunlight, producing ozone and other pollutants.
2210
Which countries have the largest proven coal reserves?
The United States, Russia, Australia, China, and India hold the largest proven coal reserves.
2211
What were PCBs and why did the EPA ban fish consumption in some rivers?
PCBs are industrial chemicals; EPA risk assessment found PCB levels in fish high enough to pose a significant cancer risk.
2212
What is the relationship between temperature and dissolved oxygen described as?
An inverse relationship.
2213
Describe the difference between point source and nonpoint source pollution. Provide one specific example of each.
Point source pollution originates from a single, identifiable source, such as a smokestack at a coal-fired power plant or a wastewater discharge pipe. Nonpoint source pollution comes from many diffuse sources, like fertilizer runoff from farms or urban stormwater carrying motor oil and sediment.
2214
What is the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)?
A belt of low pressure near the equator where the trade winds converge, producing high rainfall.
2215
How do you convert watts to kilowatts?
1 kilowatt (kW) = 1,000 watts (W).
2216
Which diseases may spread further due to warming?
Malaria, dengue, yellow fever, cholera, and Zika virus.
2217
What is ecologically sustainable forestry?
It’s a method of logging that aims to maintain biodiversity and ecological functions while harvesting timber, often by mimicking natural processes and minimizing disturbance.
2218
What does the acronym HIPPCO stand for?
Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Population growth, Pollution, Climate change, Overexploitation.
2219
How can carbon monoxide poisoning occur indoors?
Burning biomass fuels without proper ventilation.
2220
Do individual organisms and species share the same range of tolerance?
No, individuals may have different tolerances due to genetic biodiversity.
2221
Why does a small change in pH represent a large change in acidity?
The pH scale is logarithmic; each unit change represents a tenfold change in H⁺ ion concentration.
2222
How does the Endangered Species Act affect logging practices?
It protects habitats of threatened or endangered species, potentially restricting logging in areas where these species live.
2223
What is species evenness?
The relative abundance of individuals within an area.
2224
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A private landowner overgrazes their land, resulting in soil erosion and loss of vegetation.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The land is privately owned, and the consequences of overgrazing affect only the owner.
2225
How do islands create unique conditions for evolution?
By limiting space and resources, driving species to adapt to narrower niches.
2226
Why is proper e-waste disposal important?
To prevent leaching of toxic materials like lead, cadmium, and mercury into soil and groundwater.
2227
What determines an ecosystems resilience to disruption?
Its biodiversity, genetic diversity within populations, and the presence of species with adaptable traits.
2228
Why do smaller islands tend to have lower species diversity?
They support smaller populations, leading to a higher risk of extinction.
2229
What is the primary purpose of aquaculture?
The main goal is to supplement or replace wild fisheries by farming aquatic organisms, helping to meet the growing global demand for seafood while reducing overfishing pressure on wild stocks.
2230
What are examples of natural indoor air pollutants?
Radon, mold, and dust.
2231
How were zebra mussels introduced to North America, and why are they a major problem for the Great Lakes?
Zebra mussels arrived in the ballast water of ships from Europe. They quickly spread throughout the Great Lakes ecosystem, where they clog water intake pipes, outcompete native species for food, filter large amounts of algae from the water, and cause millions of dollars in damage to industries that rely on clean water.
2232
What fraction of MSW is paper?
About one-third.
2233
What are Milankovitch cycles?
Predictable changes in Earths orbit, tilt, and precession that cause long-term climate changes over ~100,000 years.
2234
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A farmer rotates crops and uses sustainable practices on his privately owned land.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The land is privately owned, and the farmers sustainable practices prevent resource depletion.
2235
What is the effect of clearcutting on biodiversity?
It reduces habitat complexity, leading to declines in species richness and the displacement of wildlife.
2236
What is sick building syndrome (SBS)?
A condition where indoor air pollutants build up in airtight buildings, causing various health symptoms.
2237
What is the long-term consequence of repeated tilling on soil?
Tilling year after year depletes organic matter, reduces soil fertility, and weakens soil structure, making it more prone to erosion. Occasional tilling can be less harmful if balanced with soil conservation practices, but repeated tilling accelerates degradation and nutrient loss.
2238
Why is sediment runoff from construction a concern for aquatic ecosystems?
Sediment runoff increases turbidity, reduces sunlight, clogs fish gills, smothers coral reefs, and disrupts aquatic food webs.
2239
What are the 4 Rs of waste reduction in Integrated Waste Management?
Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
2240
What is the role of primary consumers?
Primary consumers eat producers and occupy the second trophic level; they are herbivores.
2241
What are examples of anthropogenic indoor air pollutants?
Asbestos, VOCs, formaldehyde, and lead.
2242
How does clearcutting influence stream temperatures?
The loss of canopy cover increases sunlight exposure, raising stream temperatures and affecting aquatic life.
2243
Is the following scenario an example of the tragedy of the commons? A company installs water-saving devices to reduce its consumption from a shared aquifer.
No, this is not a tragedy of the commons. The companys actions help conserve the shared resource.
2244
Why are kelp forests important?
Kelp is a major producer and provides food and shelter in the ecosystem.
2245
What animal invasive species is a concern in the Florida Everglades?
The Burmese python.
2246
What are disease vectors, and how are they affected by climate change?
Organisms like mosquitoes; their range expands into higher latitudes as temperatures rise.
2247
What happens to estuaries when sea levels rise?
They are flooded and often permanently converted to open ocean, reducing biodiversity.
2248
How does plate tectonics influence biodiversity?
By creating and destroying habitats through processes like mountain building and volcanic activity.
2249
What is a watershed (drainage basin)?
An area of land where all water drains to a common water body, such as a stream, river, or lake.
2250
What impact does reduced oxygen have on marine life?
It can cause respiratory stress or suffocation in marine organisms.
2251
What is fracking and how does it extract gas?
High-pressure water, salt, and chemicals fracture rock layers, releasing trapped natural gas from shale formations.
2252
What is a potential consequence of thermal shock for fish populations?
Immediate death or reproductive failure.
2253
Why are thermal inversions more likely to form at night, especially in winter?
At night, especially during winter, the ground loses heat rapidly through radiation, cooling the surface air more than the air above and setting up conditions for a thermal inversion.
2254
What characterizes a mesotrophic lake?
Moderate productivity
2255
What human activity significantly increases nitrous oxide emissions?
Over-fertilization of agricultural fields.
2256
What are the advantages of petroleum over coal?
Cleaner burning, higher energy density, easy transport, and suitability for mobile engines.
2257
What role does the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) play in forestry?
NEPA requires environmental assessments for projects using federal funds or permits, ensuring potential impacts are considered before logging proceeds.
2258
What is Earths revolution?
Earths orbit around the Sun; takes 365.25 days and causes the seasons.
2259
What is the role of decomposition in natural carbon cycling?
Decomposition returns carbon from organic matter back to the atmosphere as CO‚ÇÇ or CH‚ÇÑ, depending on oxygen availability.
2260
What are examples of habitat destruction?
Deforestation, wetland draining, coral reef bleaching, grassland conversion.
2261
Which type of power plant is most associated with the highest levels of thermal pollution?
Nuclear power plants.
2262
What is the overall chemical summary of photochemical smog formation?
NOx + VOCs + sunlight ‚Üí O3 + PANs (photochemical smog)
2263
What health risks are associated with arsenic exposure in drinking water?
Increased risk of cancers, especially lung, bladder, and kidney cancers.
2264
What is a Ferrell cell?
A mid-latitude convection cell between 30° and 60° latitude that transports warm air poleward and cold air equatorward.
2265
How do wind turbines convert wind into electricity?
Wind spins the turbine blades, rotating a shaft connected to a gearbox and generator, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
2266
Where are temperate rainforests located, and what are their temperature and rainfall patterns?
Coastal zones, cool and wet
2267
What environmental problem can result from runoff rich in fertilizers?
Eutrophication, algal blooms, hypoxia, and fish kills.
2268
What are some pollutants associated with car use that contribute to urban runoff?
Common pollutants include motor oil, gasoline, antifreeze, heavy metals from brake pads, and micro-particles from tire wear. These substances accumulate on roadways and are washed into storm drains during rain events, contributing to water pollution and harming aquatic ecosystems.
2269
Why is natural gas considered the cleanest fossil fuel?
Fewer impurities, lower CO‚ÇÇ emissions, no sulfur dioxide or particulates during combustion.
2270
What occurs during Phase 3 (Industrial) of the demographic transition?
Birth rates begin to decline due to increased education, access to contraception, and urbanization; population growth slows.
2271
What is passive solar design and how does it conserve energy?
A building design strategy that maximizes natural heating via features like heat-absorbing materials, south-facing windows, and deciduous trees to reduce the need for heating/cooling systems.
2272
How do invasive species contribute to biodiversity loss?
By outcompeting, preying on, or introducing diseases to native species.
2273
What are the physiological effects of thermal pollution on aquatic life?
Increased stress, decreased growth, weakened immune response, suffocation, and death.
2274
What are cooling canals and how do they help?
Artificial channels designed to cool heated water before releasing it into ecosystems.
2275
Why is moving firewood risky?
It can spread invasive insects like the emerald ash borer.
2276
Describe the balance of ozone formation and destruction.
It’s a dynamic equilibrium; under normal conditions, ozone is constantly created and destroyed at stable rates.
2277
What is adiabatic cooling?
Cooling that occurs as rising air expands in lower pressure at higher altitudes.
2278
Why is reducing vehicle idling important?
Idling increases emissions like carbon monoxide, VOCs, and NOx unnecessarily.
2279
How does acid rain impact aquatic ecosystems?
It lowers the pH of lakes and streams, harming or killing fish and aquatic organisms.
2280
How does CO‚ÇÇ cause ocean acidification?
CO‚ÇÇ dissolves into ocean water forming carbonic acid (H‚ÇÇCO‚ÇÉ), which releases hydrogen ions and lowers pH.
2281
Why are double-hulled tankers safer than single-hulled tankers?
They prevent oil leaks even if the outer hull is damaged, reducing spill risk.
2282
What environmental drawbacks are associated with wind energy?
Turbines can kill birds and bats, especially migratory species, and may be seen as sources of noise or visual pollution.
2283
What determines whether a renewable resource remains renewable?
It must be used at or below its rate of natural regeneration.
2284
What is one reason the phosphorus crisis is not as widely discussed as the carbon or nitrogen cycles?
It lacks a gaseous atmospheric phase and is less visible in global discussions.
2285
What is secondary succession?
Succession that occurs in areas that have been disturbed but still retain their soil.
2286
Why is the water cycle essential for ecosystems and life?
It circulates freshwater, supports plant growth, regulates temperature, and maintains ecosystem functions.
2287
What are some examples of r-selected species?
Insects, fish, and many plants.
2288
What is ballast water and why is it a problem?
Water carried by ships for stability that may transport invasive species.
2289
What is synergism in toxicology?
When two pollutants together cause greater harm than each would individually.
2290
How is electricity generated in geothermal power plants?
Steam from heated groundwater spins a turbine that drives a generator.
2291
How does pesticide resistance develop?
Resistance develops through natural selection. Pesticides kill pests without resistance genes, while those with resistance survive, reproduce, and pass on their genes—leading to a more resistant population over time.
2292
Why is it important to filter out grit before secondary treatment?
Inorganics like sand and gravel interfere with microbial decomposition.
2293
What is Crude Death Rate?
The number of deaths per 1,000 individuals per year.
2294
Are nitrogen and phosphorus fully removed during secondary treatment?
No; only about 50% of nitrogen and 70% of phosphorus are removed.
2295
What is primary productivity?
The rate at which solar energy is converted into organic compounds via photosynthesis over time. Productivity is the growth of algae or plant matter.
2296
Why is aluminum toxicity dangerous for aquatic organisms?
It damages nervous systems, disrupts blood ion balance, and can kill fish and aquatic insects.
2297
How do heterotrophs acquire phosphorus?
By consuming autotrophs or other heterotrophs.
2298
Describe the environmental consequences of ammonia runoff from CAFOs.
Ammonia runoff can cause eutrophication, leading to algal blooms, oxygen depletion (hypoxia), fish kills, and contamination of drinking water.
2299
What is the significance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture?
GMOs are engineered to have desirable traits, such as pest resistance or drought tolerance, contributing to higher yields and reduced chemical use.
2300
What are two major environmental problems associated with landfills?
Groundwater contamination and greenhouse gas emissions.
2301
Give multiple examples of the Tragedy of the Commons.
Overfishing in international waters; Overgrazing on public rangelands; Deforestation of shared forests; Air pollution from vehicles and factories; Depletion of groundwater aquifers used by multiple farms, etc.
2302
How does climate change cause habitat loss?
It shifts temperature and precipitation patterns, forcing species to migrate or perish.
2303
Why do scientists divide LD50 values by 10 for animals when setting safety limits?
To account for variability within a species and ensure protection.
2304
How does ocean trash harm marine life?
Wildlife can become entangled, suffocate, or ingest plastics.
2305
What is a smokestack scrubber?
A device that removes sulfur dioxide and other pollutants from industrial emissions.
2306
What is an estuary?
A coastal area where freshwater mixes with saltwater
2307
What are the harmful effects of noise pollution on other organisms?
Stress, masking of sounds used to communicate or hunt, damaged hearing, and changes to migratory routes.
2308
What is a primary pollutant?
A pollutant emitted directly into the atmosphere from a source.
2309
What are three reasons why not all energy is passed to the next trophic level?
1) Energy is used in cell respiration, 2) not all organisms are consumed, 3) dead organisms can be lost to other ecosystems.
2310
Explain how insulation strategies in modern buildings can contribute to sick building syndrome.
Airtight insulation traps pollutants indoors, reducing air exchange and allowing buildup of VOCs, CO, or mold spores, leading to health problems.
2311
Is carbon dioxide the strongest greenhouse gas?
No; chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have the highest GWP, followed by nitrous oxide, then methane; carbon dioxide is simply the most abundant.
2312
What are PBDEs and their common uses?
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants used in furniture, electronics, and textiles.
2313
What is the soil texture triangle used for?
Determining soil type based on percentages of sand, silt, and clay.
2314
How does biomass change during succession?
It increases steadily as more species colonize and grow in the area.
2315
What is the scientific term for how a gas dissolves into a liquid?
Solubility.
2316
What is an application of hydrogen fuel cells in the real world?
Hydrogen fuel cells are used in vehicles, backup power systems, and even in some space missions.
2317
Why might people living near highways experience more respiratory problems?
They are exposed to higher levels of pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter from vehicles.
2318
What are divergent boundaries?
Areas where tectonic plates move apart, typically found under oceans.
2319
How do wetlands contribute to methane emissions?
Anaerobic decomposition produces methane in low-oxygen environments.
2320
Name several species that recovered due to conservation efforts.
California condor, bald eagle, American alligator, gray wolf (Yellowstone), gray whale, peregrine falcon.
2321
Why is energy transfer inefficient in ecosystems?
Due to metabolic heat loss, respiration, movement, and incomplete digestion.
2322
What natural phenomenon can cause haze and reduced visibility?
High concentrations of particulate matter in the air.
2323
What is air pollution?
The introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or microorganisms into the atmosphere at concentrations high enough to harm living organisms, ecosystems, or materials.
2324
What is disruptive selection?
Disruptive selection favors individuals at both extremes of a trait, potentially splitting the population.
2325
What type of pollution source is a discharge pipe from a factory into a river?
Point Source
2326
What are non-depletable renewable resources?
Renewable resources that do not run out when used, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy.
2327
Who was Norman Borlaug and why is he important to the Green Revolution?
Norman Borlaug was an American agronomist known as the Father of the Green Revolution. He developed high-yield, disease-resistant wheat varieties that significantly increased food production in countries like Mexico, India, and Pakistan.
2328
How can using recycled wood contribute to sustainable forestry?
It reduces demand for new lumber, minimizes deforestation, and can be repurposed into furniture, mulch, or decorations.
2329
What is a wetland?
An area where water covers the soil either permanently or seasonally, leading to anaerobic conditions.
2330
What are common characteristics of a country in Phase 1 of the demographic transition?
Subsistence agriculture, low life expectancy, and minimal access to healthcare and sanitation.
2331
What happens to coral reefs if acidification continues?
They may collapse, harming marine species that rely on them.
2332
Who first successfully measured atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ continuously?
Charles Keeling.
2333
What are the two main types of air pollutants?
Primary pollutants and secondary pollutants.
2334
Why is acid mine drainage harmful to ecosystems?
It lowers water pH, making toxic metals like mercury and aluminum more soluble, which kills aquatic organisms and contaminates groundwater.
2335
What is an example of a human-related source of mercury pollution?
The combustion of coal in power plants.
2336
According to the Theory of Island Biogeography, what happens to extinction rates as species richness increases?
Extinction rates increase.
2337
What happens when the ozone layer thins significantly?
More UV radiation reaches Earth’s surface, harming human health, crops, and marine life.
2338
Why is public transportation an effective energy conservation strategy?
It moves many people at once, reducing the number of individual vehicles on the road and lowering total energy use.
2339
What are some environmental benefits of using biocontrol?
Targets specific pests without affecting beneficial organisms or polluting ecosystems.
2340
What is a riparian zone?
Vegetated areas next to water bodies that filter runoff and stabilize banks.
2341
What can a large 0-14 cohort relative to 15-44 indicate?
Current and future population growth.
2342
What characterizes an oligotrophic lake?
Low nutrient levels and low productivity
2343
What is a dose-response study in environmental science?
A study exposing animals or plants to different chemical amounts and observing mortality, behavior, or reproduction to determine harmful concentrations.
2344
How do lightning strikes contribute to atmospheric pollution?
They convert atmospheric N‚ÇÇ into NOx compounds, a natural pollutant.
2345
How does TSD relate to ocean warming?
Changing temperatures can skew gender ratios in species with TSD.
2346
What are cooling towers and how do they help?
Structures that cool heated water by releasing heat into the atmosphere before discharge.
2347
What are cyanobacteria and their relation to phosphorus?
Blue-green algae that feed on phosphorus; their blooms can cause eutrophication.
2348
What characteristics make invasive species successful?
Rapid reproduction (r-selected traits), generalist behaviors, and adaptability.
2349
What are some environmental consequences of biomass harvesting?
Deforestation, habitat loss, soil erosion, and reduced carbon sequestration.
2350
How does dam construction threaten wetlands?
It alters water flow, reducing nutrient delivery and drying out wetlands.
2351
What gas is released instead of CO‚ÇÇ during anaerobic decomposition?
Methane (CH‚ÇÑ).
2352
What is a fault?
A fracture in Earths crust along which movement has occurred.
2353
What are the main environmental drawbacks of CAFOs?
High volumes of concentrated waste, use of antibiotics and growth hormones, and emissions of CO‚ÇÇ, CH‚ÇÑ, and N‚ÇÇO contributing to climate change.
2354
What is extraction in the carbon cycle?
Human removal of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) from underground reservoirs.
2355
Why is maintaining biodiversity important in forestry?
Biodiversity, which refers to the variety of living organisms in an area, is extremely important in forestry because it helps keep ecosystems stable and healthy. A diverse forest is more resilient, meaning it can better recover from disturbances like storms, fires, or pest outbreaks. High biodiversity also increases genetic variation, which makes tree populations more resistant to diseases and environmental stress. By maintaining biodiversity, forests can continue to function properly and provide resources and services over the long term.
2356
Is oil a renewable or nonrenewable energy source?
Nonrenewable – like coal, it forms over geological time and cannot be replenished on a human timescale.
2357
What is a scrubber and what pollutants does it remove?
A scrubber removes air pollutants like sulfur dioxide, particulates, and some VOCs from industrial exhaust.
2358
What is the GWP of nitrous oxide (N‚ÇÇO)?
About 300.
2359
Why is indoor air pollution often more dangerous than outdoor air pollution?
Indoor spaces can trap pollutants and people spend 90% of their time indoors.
2360
Define weather in atmospheric science.
The short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific area, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.
2361
Why might synthetic fertilizers initially boost crop yield?
They provide a quick source of essential nutrients, promoting rapid plant growth.
2362
What is ecological succession?
The predictable replacement of one group of species by another over time.
2363
What is a cover crop, and how does it protect wetlands?
Plants grown between main crops that prevent soil erosion and nutrient runoff.
2364
How do bees function as keystone species?
They pollinate plants, aiding in reproduction and biodiversity.
2365
What economic industries are hurt by oil spills?
Fishing (e.g., shrimp industry), tourism (e.g., beach resorts), and coastal real estate.
2366
How is carbon monoxide produced indoors?
Through incomplete combustion of fuel from sources like stoves, furnaces, and biomass burning.
2367
What is the "Tragedy of the Commons"?
A situation where individuals act in their own self-interest and overuse shared, public, resources, causing resource depletion or degredation and harm to the whole group.
2368
What are rain gardens, and how do they reduce urban runoff?
Rain gardens are shallow, planted depressions designed to collect and absorb stormwater from impervious surfaces nearby. They allow water to soak into the ground, filter pollutants through plant roots and soil, and reduce the volume of runoff entering storm drains.
2369
What body of water is a well-known case study for eutrophication and dead zones?
The Gulf of Mexico, particularly near the mouth of the Mississippi River.
2370
What are floating garbage patches caused by?
Circulating ocean currents (gyres) concentrating floating waste.
2371
What percentage of sea ice has declined in the Arctic since 1979?
About 38%.
2372
What is an indicator species?
A species that reflects the health or characteristics of an ecosystem.
2373
What is the relationship between solar energy and biome distribution?
Biomes near the equator receive more solar energy, supporting dense vegetation and warm climates.
2374
What are environmental benefits of consuming food from lower trophic levels?
Reduces land, water, and energy use, and decreases greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding the inefficiencies of animal-based food production.
2375
How does BT corn protect itself from pests?
BT corn produces a protein derived from Bacillus thuringiensis that is toxic to certain pests when consumed.
2376
What is tilling and how does it impact the environment?
Tilling is the agricultural practice of turning over or mixing the soil using machinery. Farmers do this to prepare soil for planting by loosening it, incorporating crop residues, and making it easier for roots to grow. While it can improve short-term crop yield and planting ease, it leads to soil erosion, loss of organic matter, and pollution from particulate matter over time.
2377
What are the two main methods used to extract coal?
Surface mining and underground mining. Surface mining is used for shallow deposits and is less expensive, while underground mining is used for deeper coal seams.
2378
What is particulate matter (PM)?
Tiny solid or liquid particles that can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
2379
What is water impoundment in hydroelectric systems?
A method where dams store water in a reservoir and control its flow to generate electricity.
2380
Why might plants in the same biome look similar even if they’re not related?
Similar environmental adaptations
2381
How can natural disturbances affect ecosystem biodiversity?
By shifting population dynamics of species, often reducing biodiversity or altering which species dominate an area.
2382
Why do death rates decline during the transitional stage?
Improvements in sanitation, nutrition, and medical care reduce mortality, especially infant mortality.
2383
What fuels can be used instead of coal to reduce pollution, and why are they cleaner?
Natural gas produces fewer SO‚ÇÇ, NOx, and particulates; hydrogen and electricity emit little or no air pollutants when generated cleanly.
2384
What is a route of exposure?
The way a pollutant enters the human body.
2385
What is a seesaw analogy in ocean warming?
The constant heat exchange between ocean and atmosphere over decades.
2386
How does energy subsidy relate to modern agriculture?
Modern agriculture uses more fossil fuel energy per calorie produced than traditional methods, due to machinery, fertilizer, pesticide production, and food transport.
2387
How did Burmese pythons become invasive?
Released pets from the exotic animal trade.
2388
Why is chemical control placed at the top of the IPM pyramid?
Its used only when other methods fail due to its environmental risks and potential harm to non-target species.
2389
What is a "common" in environmental science?
A resource that is accessible to all members of a society and is not privately owned, such as air, oceans, freshwater sources, public lands, and the atmosphere.
2390
How do environmental changes drive natural selection?
When the environment changes, traits that confer a survival/reproductive advantage become more common over generations.
2391
What is the impact of education on TFR?
More education reduces unplanned pregnancies and increases job opportunities, leading to lower TFR.
2392
Define poaching.
The illegal hunting, capturing, or killing of wildlife.
2393
How can nutrient pollution indirectly harm coral reefs?
It fuels algal overgrowth, shading coral and outcompeting zooxanthellae.
2394
What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?
Organic chemicals that easily become vapors or gases and contribute to the formation of photochemical smog.
2395
Why should hazardous waste not go into regular landfills?
It can leach harmful chemicals into the environment.
2396
What percentage of excess heat has the ocean absorbed?
About 90%.
2397
What is meant by non-depletable in the context of wind energy?
Wind energy cannot be exhausted by usage and will continue as long as Earths atmospheric patterns exist.
2398
What is groundwater?
Water stored underground in soil pores and rock formations after infiltration.
2399
What is bioaccumulation?
The gradual accumulation of substances, such as POPs, in an organism.
2400
What characterizes a K-selected species?
Few offspring, high parental care, long lifespan, and low biotic potential, leading to slow population growth.
2401
What is the 10% Rule in energy transfer?
Only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next; the rest is lost as heat or used for life processes.
2402
What is a positive feedback loop related to solar radiation?
Melting ice lowers albedo, increasing heat absorption, which leads to more melting.
2403
How does fire suppression increase future fire risks?
It allows biomass to accumulate, providing more fuel for future fires, which can be more severe and damaging.
2404
How do you convert liters to milliliters?
1 liter (L) = 1,000 milliliters (mL).
2405
Which natural source contributes only a small amount (about 0.03%) to atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ?
Volcanic eruptions.
2406
Name two nutrients responsible for eutrophication.
Nitrates from fertilizer runoff and phosphates from detergents and wastewater.
2407
What lifestyle and environmental factors can synergistically worsen respiratory diseases?
Smoking, air pollution, pre-existing health conditions, and exposure to particulate matter.
2408
What are the short- and long-term effects of synthetic fertilizer use?
In the short term, synthetic fertilizers rapidly boost crop yields by supplying nutrients directly to plants. However, long-term use can degrade soil health by reducing organic matter, harming the soil microbiome, and increasing nutrient leaching into water bodies.
2409
How do scientists know past climates and CO2 levels?
Through ice cores, foraminifera fossils, and oxygen isotope analysis.
2410
How does temperature inversion contribute to smog formation?
A temperature inversion traps pollutants near the ground, preventing their dispersal and allowing smog to build up.
2411
How can pesticide application contribute to nonpoint source pollution?
Pesticides sprayed on agricultural fields can be carried by wind and rain into water bodies, making it difficult to trace the exact source.
2412
What is coral bleaching, and what causes it?
Coral expels its symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) due to stress from warming oceans, pollution, or acidification, weakening the coral.
2413
How does salinization affect plants?
High salt levels hinder water uptake by roots, leading to dehydration, stunted growth, or death.
2414
What percent of Denmarks electricity comes from wind?
About 26%.
2415
Name the four types of freshwater biomes.
Streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands
2416
During normal conditions, how do trade winds and ocean currents behave?
Trade winds blow east to west, moving warm surface water toward Australia, while cool, nutrient-rich water upwells along the coast of South America.
2417
What abiotic factors influence aquatic biomes?
Salinity, depth, turbidity, nutrient availability, and temperature
2418
What happens when excess limiting nutrients are added to water bodies?
Algal blooms occur due to rapid population growth of algae.
2419
What impact does air pollution have on visibility?
Air pollution, especially smog and particulate matter, scatters light and reduces visibility.
2420
What global percentage decrease in emissions was targeted by the Kyoto Protocol?
5.2% below 1990 levels.
2421
What are drawbacks of free-range grazing?
Requires more land, is more expensive for consumers, and may lead to overgrazing and soil degradation.
2422
What is the pesticide treadmill?
A cycle where pesticide-resistant pests force farmers to continually develop and apply new or stronger pesticides, often without solving the root problem.
2423
What proportion of solar energy do producers typically capture through photosynthesis?
About 1%.
2424
How do fossils support the theory of evolution?
Fossils show transitional forms and changes over geological time, providing evidence of gradual species evolution.
2425
What is the largest global use of freshwater?
Agriculture, which consumes about 70% of the world’s freshwater, mainly for irrigation and livestock.
2426
How does climate change worsen invasive species problems?
Expanding habitable ranges for invaders like the emerald ash borer.
2427
What impact do algal blooms have on aquatic ecosystems?
They block sunlight, kill submerged plants, and lead to oxygen depletion as algae decompose.
2428
What is the sequence of energy conversion in geothermal plants?
Thermal energy ‚Üí Mechanical energy ‚Üí Electrical energy.
2429
Why is water vapor not considered a major cause of human-driven climate change?
Water vapor depends on temperature and has a short atmospheric residence time; humans do not directly increase its levels.
2430
What are pioneer species?
Species that can survive with little or no soil and initiate primary succession, such as lichens and mosses.
2431
How does Earths rotation affect wind patterns?
The Coriolis effect bends winds, contributing to global wind patterns like the trade winds and westerlies.
2432
What are the three types of indoor air pollutants by source?
Natural, anthropogenic (human-made), and combustion-based.
2433
What are the four main types of irrigation methods?
Furrow, flood, spray, and drip irrigation—each with different costs, efficiencies, and crop suitability.
2434
What type of pollution source is illegal dumping of chemicals into a river from one warehouse?
Point Source
2435
How does holding heated water in retention ponds reduce thermal pollution?
It allows water to cool naturally before being released into natural water bodies.
2436
How can particulate matter (PM) enter the body?
Inhalation through the respiratory tract from air containing dust, pollen, or combustion products.
2437
What problems do Asian carp cause in U.S. waterways like the Mississippi River?
Asian carp, introduced to control algae in fish farms, escaped into the Mississippi River and have rapidly spread. They outcompete native fish for food and habitat, threaten native biodiversity, and pose a safety risk because they leap high out of the water when startled by boats, sometimes injuring people.
2438
How does particulate matter from agriculture affect aquatic ecosystems?
It increases turbidity in water, which can block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels, harming aquatic life.
2439
Why does meat consumption increase ecological footprint?
Meat production requires more land, water, and energy than plant-based food production.
2440
What environmental risks are associated with tectonic activity?
Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis.
2441
Compare the primary sources of indoor air pollution in developing versus developed nations.
Developing nations: biomass combustion for cooking/heating. Developed nations: VOCs from industrial products like cleaners, furniture, and paint.
2442
How does coastal upwelling contribute to thermal inversions?
Upwelling brings cold ocean water to the surface, cooling the air above it. This can cause a warmer air mass above to trap the colder air and create an inversion.
2443
What is wet deposition?
Acidic rain, snow, or fog containing dissolved acids that falls to the ground.
2444
Are fossil fuels carbon reservoirs?
Yes, they represent long-term carbon storage formed from ancient organic matter.
2445
How does the highway system contribute to urban sprawl?
It makes commuting easier, leading to more driving, increased fuel tax revenue, and more highway construction—a positive feedback loop.
2446
What are some economic benefits of hydroelectric dams?
Reliable electricity, recreational use, job creation, and increased property values.
2447
How can community management help prevent the Tragedy of the Commons?
By creating local rules, shared monitoring, rotating usage, and conflict-resolution systems to maintain the resource.
2448
Why is food production a key environmental indicator?
It shows whether current agricultural practices can sustain the growing human population without harming the environment.
2449
Give examples of species harmed by climate change.
Coral reefs, polar bears, amphibians (frogs), koalas.
2450
What would likely happen to pollution levels in a city during a temperature inversion?
Pollution levels would increase near the surface because the warm air layer traps cooler air and pollutants below it, preventing dispersion.
2451
What is particulate matter composed of?
Tiny solid and liquid particles like soot, dust, and pollen suspended in the air.
2452
What is urban runoff, and why is it a problem?
Urban runoff is water from precipitation that flows over impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and sidewalks. Since it can’t soak into the ground, it accumulates and carries pollutants like oil, salt, and chemicals directly into storm drains, which often lead to rivers, lakes, or oceans without filtration. This runoff contributes to flooding, erosion, reduced groundwater recharge, and water pollution.
2453
Give examples of species that went extinct due to overharvesting.
Dodo bird, passenger pigeon, Tasmanian tiger (thylacine).
2454
What are the main outdoor sources of noise pollution?
Transportation, construction, and domestic and industrial activity.
2455
What is leachate?
Contaminated water that drains through landfill waste.
2456
How has UV radiation changed in the Southern Hemisphere since ozone depletion?
Surface UV-B radiation increased by up to 25%, raising skin cancer rates in places like Chile and Australia.
2457
What is Morbidity in population health?
The occurrence of disease and illness in a population.
2458
What makes geothermal heating suitable for municipalities, not individual homes?
True geothermal requires drilling thousands of meters — feasible only for large-scale projects.
2459
How do low-flow appliances help conserve energy?
They use less water, which reduces the energy needed to treat and deliver water to homes.
2460
How does sustainable building design reduce energy use?
Through green roofs, recycled materials, insulation, and natural lighting to reduce the need for heating, cooling, and artificial lighting.
2461
What is the major limiting nutrient in marine environments?
Nitrogen.
2462
What is bottom ash?
Toxic residue left after waste incineration.
2463
How should asbestos be safely removed?
By trained professionals using respirators, body suits, and sealing off contaminated areas.
2464
How does IPM reduce the risk of pesticide resistance?
By minimizing chemical use and rotating control methods, it prevents pests from adapting.
2465
What is a detritivore?
An organism that feeds on dead organic material, especially plant detritus (e.g., earthworms).
2466
What is ocean acidification?
The decrease in pH of the oceans primarily due to increased atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ levels.
2467
Why are estuaries productive?
They receive high-nutrient freshwater, supporting diverse life
2468
Why do islands farther from the mainland have lower species diversity?
Because they have lower immigration rates.
2469
What are some environmental advantages of wind energy?
It is renewable, non-depletable, emits no GHGs or air pollutants, and does not contaminate soil or water.
2470
Why does photochemical smog often occur more in summer?
Because warmer temperatures and stronger sunlight enhance chemical reactions that produce ozone.
2471
How much has atmospheric CO‚ÇÇ increased from 1958 to 2021?
From 316 ppm to 415 ppm.
2472
How does ocean warming impact commercial fisheries?
Shifts in species distribution affect fish availability and economic value.
2473
What can happen to a population if it cannot acclimate, adapt, or migrate in response to an environmental change?
It may decrease in size or face local extinction due to inability to survive new conditions.
2474
What happens to oil after an oil spill in the ocean?
Some evaporates, some disperses into droplets, some sinks to the seabed, and some persists for years, harming marine ecosystems.
2475
What is the major limiting nutrient in freshwater environments?
Phosphorus.
2476
How does mercury enter aquatic environments?
Mercury is emitted mainly from coal-fired power plants, mining, waste incineration, and can enter water bodies via rainfall.
2477
How does photochemical smog impact the economy?
Photochemical smog leads to missed work due to illness, increasing healthcare costs. It also damages crops, reducing agricultural yields and causing financial losses in farming and food production industries.
2478
What is the second most used energy source globally after fossil fuels?
Hydroelectric energy.
2479
Why isn’t every species tested for chemical toxicity?
Testing all species is impractical; scientists test representative species.
