AICE Environmental Management: Environmental Research and Data Collection

These flashcards cover key concepts from environmental research and data collection, including experimental design, data presentation, reliability, bias, climate change data, data collection methods, and the use of technology.

What are the steps of an investigation in environmental research?

1. Experimental planning 2. Presentation of data and observations 3. Evaluation of procedures and data 4. Analysis of data and making conclusions.

What is a hypothesis?

A statement predicting the outcome of an experiment, often provided in environmental research.

What does the independent variable refer to in an experiment?

The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated in an experiment.

How should data be presented in environmental research?

Data should be presented using graphs such as line, bar, and histograms.

What is the significance of controlling variables in an experiment?

Controlled variables help verify that it is the independent variable affecting the dependent variable.

What is reliable data?

Data that is consistent, accurate, and trustworthy; can be replicated by other researchers.

Define bias in environmental research.

Bias is a prejudice in favor of or against something which can affect the interpretation of scientific data.

What are climate proxies?

Climate proxies are used to reconstruct past climate conditions in the absence of direct measurements.

What is the purpose of random sampling?

Random sampling ensures that every individual in a population has an equal chance of being selected.

Describe the Lincoln index used in mark-release-recapture methods.

The Lincoln index is used to estimate the population size of mobile organisms through capturing, marking, and releasing individuals.

What does Simpson's index of diversity (D) measure?

Simpson's index measures species diversity, including richness and evenness within a habitat.

What is big data in the context of ecology?

Big data refers to data that exceeds the analytical capabilities of individuals and is generated from remote sensors, citizen science, and real-time sensor networks.

Discuss the challenges associated with historical climate data.

Challenges include limited amount of historical data and the short period covered by instrumental measurements.

What techniques can be used for data collection in environmental studies?

Techniques include quadrat sampling, kick sampling, beating trays, light traps, and questionnaires.

Explain the importance of safety precautions and ethical measures in environmental investigations.

Safety precautions protect researchers and the environment; ethical measures ensure the integrity of data collection and respect for living organisms.

What do you need to include when graphing data in environmental research?

The independent variable on the X-axis, the dependent variable on the Y-axis, appropriate scales, labels, and keys.

What limitations can arise from using biased data in climate change research?

Bias can lead to misinterpretation of data, distorted findings, and public confusion regarding climate change.

What is the role of technology in data collection and analysis in environmental research?

Technology enhances the quality and efficiency of data collection, such as through GPS, remote sensing, and computer modeling.